From their EPK, “When you listen to the new album, it's clear that the band stepped up their game. The material is more progressive, heavy, complex and melodic compared to the debut album. The songs are more dramatic and there are more orchestral arrangements and parts on "Manifesto," which gives the album a movie-like, cinematic vibe. You will also find the elements that SUNBURST are known for on the album, like impressive instrumental parts, intense guitar riffing, soaring melodic vocals and emotional and memorable melodies. The album has eight songs.

“The Flood” is first. Soft, melodic tones come out slowly, with backing keyboards, like the warmth of the sun on a cold morning. The main riff is sturdy and weighted, and the band shows some technical prowess with the shifting meter. I get a bit of a KAMELOT vibe here, especially with Vasilis’s vocals. He has an excellent voice. “Hollow Lies” was the first video released ahead of the album. It has heavy, dark and choppy rhythms and an expansive melody section. The cinematic elements are there just enough to let the listener know, but do not take over the sound. “Samaritan” has a faster pace with a groovy rhythm that shifts from heavy short accents to longer melodies that are drawn out, especially in the chorus.

“Perpetual Descent” is very well put together, and it sounds concise and definitive. The meal is seasoned with several different spices, but they come together in the end for a taste that is satisfying and sublime. “Inimicus Intus” has a catchy rhythm that gets stuck in your head and gets your feet moving off the ground. The chorus drips with emotion, and the lead guitar work leaves the listener in awe. “From the Cradle to the Grave” has a pounding rhythm with plenty of melody, and emotions pour out in the chorus like water flowing from a busted dam. Gus absolutely buries the strings following a blistering guitar solo. The title track probably has the strongest balance between weight and wide-open melodies, and if you aren’t singing along, you might be dead.

“Nocturne” closes the album, and its breadth is deep and wide. It has a heavy structure, but those melodies shine brightly. Obviously, the band has talent. I appreciate the way that they hold back from letting that take over the album though. They do cut loose every now and again, and these little snippets keep the listener engaged and excited. It’s the songwriting that is the main star here. They could have easily written and performed a few 12 minute+ songs, but instead, they have meticulously composed an album with eight outstanding pieces that don’t overstay their welcome.