This 1999 addition to the Testament discography is one of the strongest of their post 80's material. The Gathering features none other than Slayer's Dave Lombardo on the drum kit, who filled in for a short time to help the band out, bassist Steve DGiorgio (ex-Death/Iced Earth, current Sadus) as well as super shred monster James Murphy (ex-Death) on guitars. If that's not reason enough to elevate this album to the top of the Testament thrash classics, then songs like "True Believer", with its catchy chorus and brutal riffs, or the galloping stomp of "Careful What You Wish For", certainly will. Lead singer Chuck Billy is in fine form here, spewing out plenty of angry shouts and screams, and longtime guitarist Eric Peterson lays down the monster riffage and the occasional solo like the true pro he is. The album never lets up, with other highlights being "Down For Life", "Legions of the Dead", "Riding the Snake", and the almost White Zombie-ish "Allegiance". The Gathering is truly a "testament" to the skills of this long standing Bay Area thrash ensemble.
Track Listing
1. D.N.R. (Do Not Resuscitate)
2. Down For Life
3. Eyes Of Wrath
4. True Believer
5. 3 Days In Darkness
6. Legions Of The Dead
7. Careful What You Wish For
8. Riding The Snake
9. Allegiance
10. Sewn Shut Eyes
11. Fall Of Sipledome