The Gathering is a Dutch alternative rock band founded in 1989 by brothers Hans and René Rutten and vocalist Bart Smits. The early incarnation of the band featured a much more death and doom metal-based style than the more atmospheric rock and experimental music which they became known for over the years, having enjoyed a highly successful career globally to date. The band recorded 2 demos initially before making their studio debut with ‘Always…’ (1992).

‘Almost a Dance’ was the second studio album by the band, released originally in 1993 on Foundation 2000 Records. The album was produced by Tom Holkenborg who became famous as Junkie XL. On this album, The Gathering left death growls and their death-doom influences aside, in favour of a more progressive rock/metal sound with clean vocals, and a strong foundation for what the band would continue to evolve into, which is clearly apparent in the guitar arrangements and sublime soundscapes created.

• 1. On a Wave
• 2. The Blue Vessel
• 3. Her Last Flight
• 4. The Sky People
• 5. Nobody Dares
• 6. Like Fountains
• 7. Proof
• 8. Heartbeat Amplifier
• 9. A Passage To Desire