How to Measure a Planet? cover

How to Measure a Planet?

The Gathering · 1998

103 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock · progressive metal · gothic metal

Ethereal soundscapes interweave with heavy guitar riffs and haunting vocals in a journey of introspection.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with introspection
  • extended finale for deep reflection
  • haunting vocals for emotional depth
  • dynamic journey through soundscapes

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • avoid lengthy listening experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1998, 'How to Measure a Planet?' marked The Gathering's shift towards a more atmospheric and progressive sound after their breakthrough album 'Nighttime Birds' in 1997. This record reflects their evolution from gothic metal roots into a broader alternative rock palette as they explored complex themes and longer song structures.
Stylistic neighbors
Anathema· My Dying Bride· Paradise Lost

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Frail (You Might as Well Be Me) 5:04
  • 2 Great Ocean Road 6:19
  • 3 Rescue Me 6:22
  • 4 My Electricity 3:32
  • 5 Liberty Bell 6:01
  • 6 Red Is a Slow Colour 6:25
  • 7 The Big Sleep 5:01
  • 8 Marooned 5:55
  • 9 Travel 9:06

Disc 2

  • 1 South American Ghost Ride 4:25
  • 2 Illuminating 5:41
  • 3 Locked Away 3:23
  • 4 Probably Built in the Fifties 7:26
  • 5 How to Measure a Planet? 28:32

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata