The Reunion: A Welcome Surprise
After parting ways in 2007 to pursue other musical endeavors, the announcement of a reunion featuring the 90s lineup of The Gathering came as a surprise to many. Anneke van Giersbergen, along with founding members René Rutten and Hans Rutten, bassist Hugo Prinsen Geerligs, and keyboardist Frank Boeijen, are set to recreate the magic that defined a significant era of their music.
In a recent interview, Anneke expressed her excitement about the reunion: “It’s like coming home. The chemistry and musical connection we had back then is something truly special, and I can’t wait to share it with our fans once again.”
Tour Plans: What to Expect
The upcoming tour will see the band performing a selection of hits from their 90s discography, tailored to satisfy both longtime followers and new listeners. As Anneke mentioned, “We just focus on these shows and take it from there,” indicating that the primary objective is to deliver memorable performances that honor their past achievements while possibly paving the way for future projects.
Confirmed Tour Dates
As of now, the band has announced several key dates and venues for their tour. While more dates may be added, here are the initial confirmed locations:
- October 15, 2023 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Paradiso
- October 18, 2023 – Berlin, Germany – Huxleys Neue Welt
- October 20, 2023 – Paris, France – Le Trianon
- October 22, 2023 – London, UK – O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire
- October 25, 2023 – Madrid, Spain – La Riviera
The Setlist: A Journey Through Time
Fans can expect a setlist that takes them on a journey through The Gathering’s most influential era. The band has hinted at performing classic tracks from albums like Mandylion and Nighttime Birds, alongside fan favorites and perhaps a few surprises.
Anneke highlighted the importance of crafting a setlist that resonates with their audience: “We want to celebrate the music that brought us together, and we aim to create a setlist that reflects the diversity and depth of our work during that time.”
Reunion’s Impact: A Look at the Future
While the primary focus is on delivering a successful tour, the reunion of The Gathering’s 90s lineup inevitably leads to speculation about the future. Could this spark new music from the group? Anneke’s response remains cautiously optimistic: “We have no immediate plans beyond the tour, but the energy and creativity that comes from playing together again could certainly lead to new projects.”
The music industry has seen many bands reunite, often leading to new recordings and collaborations. With the renewed interest in The Gathering, there is potential for exciting developments beyond the tour.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Legacy
The reunion of Anneke van Giersbergen with The Gathering’s 90s lineup is more than just a trip down memory lane. It is a celebration of a pivotal period in their career, a chance to reconnect with fans, and a potential springboard for future endeavors. As they embark on this tour, both the band and their audience stand to gain from the revitalization of a musical legacy that continues to inspire.
For fans and newcomers alike, this reunion tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of The Gathering’s music live, ensuring that their legacy endures and continues to evolve in the ever-changing landscape of rock and metal music.
Stay tuned for more updates on the tour and any new developments from The Gathering. As Anneke and the band have shown, the journey is just as exciting as the destination.