1. The newest album "Home" really stands alone both in style and content. How would you compare it to past albums?
Well, we expected to make a more heavier album, but during the recordings it went more to the 'Souvenirs' side of The Gathering. More then expected. It just happened, though we all felt like making a strong rock/metal album. Maybe because of the church we recorded? The atmosphere? Maybe because of our producer Attie. I think home is a sober record, not that detailed as Souvenirs, simple, especially rythmically, but it was a choice we made during the recordings. Things chance, especially into the studio.
2. "Home", has what I would describe as a delicate sound, very inviting and warm. Tell us about the writing of this album.
It was a personal album to write. As I said; it became delicate. A song like Shortest Day was way more heavier then the final version. Same goes for Waking Hours. We had some structured ideas, but also some very vague ones, and they became songs during our jam sessions in the Church.
3. I have heard The Gathering compared to many other bands, yet I always thought your sound was very unique. What are your thoughts on this?
I am quite proud to say The Gathering is a unique band. We always try to please ourselves, lack of big productions, showelements, or writing to an audience because of commercialism. I am really proud of all the things we did achieve, and the things we are going to do. We are a real band, putting the Music on number one. We get a lot of advice from people to change some things to get more attention from the audience/magazines/radiostations. But this is what we are.
4. Is The Gathering in it's current lineup what you had in mind when the band first started?
No. When we started we wanted to make a concept demo in the veins of Celtic Frost. That was our main goal. But we have a strong line up now. We are still in contact with all the old members.
5. Did you foresee The Gathering being so successful?
No, never. It was never a goal to make a living out of it, but it was and is a very important part of my life. If I need to find a job, financially, I will. We all will.
6. Are there any sounds or ideas you want to include in future albums that you have not tried yet?
We have so many ideas, things to say, things to do and places to visit. Too much to mention. We will see what pops up first. First we concentrate on a new DVD, which we will record in 2007.
7. I have heard many bands mention The Gathering as an influence. Who influenced you to start playing?
Celtic Frost, Axegrinder, Paradise Lost, Beowulf (the band from Venice), Voivod, but also Rush and Pink Floyd.
8. What of all The Gatherings accomplishments are you most proud of?
How to measure a planet (the album), having a very enthousiastic underground fanbase all over the world, and, most of all, our friendship in the band.
9. What is coming up for the band in the next few months?
Touring. Write a bit. We will play in Greece , Turkey , and we have some European and South American dates coming up in 2007, as well as some festivals.
10. Of the entire catalog of The Gatherings albums, is there one that you like the most?
How to measure... But of course you love all your children. I think Nighttime Birds and If then else could be better on several points, but they both have some very strongs songs.
11. What do you think it is about the album "Mandylion" that caused it to be your breakthrough album?
Great album. Pure. Intense. The same feeling I get when I listen to Always... our first album. Enthousiasm. Recorded in a couple of days, but it still sounds very vital.
12. For you personally, what is most important when writing an album?
To tell a story. And to make one which you can enjoy for several years yourself. We try to please ourselves.
13. What does The Gathering mean to you?
Very important part of my life. For 17 years already now.
14. What would you hope fans will get from your music?
Solace, strength, whatever they search in music.