SERAPHIC is a Symphonic Metal band from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Formed in 2014 by singer Sam Wolstenholme, when her previous band ALPINE FAULT came to a close, they describe their sound as "Epic Melodic Piano Metal." "Journey To Illumination" is their debut full-length, and contains nine tracks. I have always maintained that piano only enhances Metal music, and oh boy is that the case leading into "The Reckoning." The instrumentation is fierce and Wolstenholme's vocals are wonderful. Little nuances like a key change, connecting bridge bring, and guitar solo really bring this firey track to a life. "This Silent Apocalypse" is a rich and profound song with dual vocal harmonies and themes of the hypocrisy of religion. She sings, "man and woman, child and beast, we all dine at the devil's feast. Ignorant preachers and callous priest, they lead us astray. Blind faith is our hell on earth. The apocalypse of fear in belief."

"The Tide of Life" swirls with soaring lead guitar and the thunder of a storm between moments of piano led melody that are absolutely bewitching. These are melodies crafted by seasoned songwriters with a flair for some NWOBHM and obvious influence in the Symphonic genre. But make no mistake, they are no clones, and every bit unique to this band. Wolstenholme's operatic vibrato is perhaps not as high as in the song "Child of the Water," pointing perhaps to the power of a younger generation to bring the world out of fear and darkness. "The Road Less Traveled" is a shorter instrumental track, led by the ivories and supported by guitar chords that are as bold and meaty as they are graceful. Impact is what I am talking about here. "Emancipation of the Lost" talks about freeing yourself from inner demons that are really the only things that shackle you in life. "Emancipation" means "freedom, liberty," or "being set free." Is it me or does the Egyptian sound here remind me of the story of the great deliverance? The heavy marching rhythm at the end definitely supports a freedom of sorts.

"The Final Act" is the closing song. Thematically it talks about the drone of life that we all follow, missing purpose and direction. The music supports this through some dark and depressing elements, ominously stated with chanted vocals and eerie piano melodies. It's too obvious to relate SERAPHIC's "Journey To Illumination" to some acts like NIGHTWISH and EPICA, though is a good loose starting point. But they have their own identity. The piano is a constant, which I enjoy immensely. They also have great guitar parts as well, and provide plenty of heaviness in that regard. It's a very affable debut from a band that has poured a good deal of emotion and craft into their songwriting. Fans of Epic and Symphonic band should give this some attention.