Last year, Rafal Bowman's brainchild CHAOS OVER COSMOS unleashed their debut album "The Unknown Voyage" which is a true rare gem. This time, they are releasing a 3-track self-titled EP. This EP will feature the new vocalist after that peaceful split-up with Javier Calderon.

Like the debut album, this EP follows the same straightforward attack on all of the tracks. "Cascading Darkness" is a perfect example of an elaborate and sophisticated Progressive Metal. Of course, it still has traces of Power Metal like in the debut album - and that can be heard on the guitar solos. As for the guitar, it's a combination of crunchy riffs and neoclassical solos. The sound layer of synths provides such a pleasing contrast to the sound making the experience really cosmic and colorful. But the real surprise here is the vocals - if you have heard their debut album, you'll notice that the attack on vocals is mostly cleans. But here, they have utilized a mix of screams, growls and occasional cleans. That really reminded me of this Australian Progressive Metal band I saw in 2017 called "Gods of Eden" - only that this song is much more diverse and colorful.

The following track is "Consumed", which is heavier than the first track by tons. Even if it has more clean vocals in it, the drums and those crushing riffs served as the barometer in heaviness. I also love how assertive the bass is in this song. Like the first song, it has lots of perfectly arranged contrasts in sound and overall mood. Despite that, the aura it releases is all too positive. Last but not least is the addictive instrumental "Asimov". It contains a really relaxing (but engaging) rhythm - and those sudden energy outbursts will blow your mind.

It is easy to say that the sound of this EP is a perpendicular turn as compared to "The Unknown Voyage". Having a very different soundscape doesn't really matter though, as it is still that same CHAOS OVER COSMOS type of music - colorful, positive, and shifty - just how Prog should be. Rafal also showcased a really excellent guitar work on each of the songs especially on the last track. This EP definitely has some of his best chops so far. The only flaw I can see is on the mix - the vocals are too pushed back. I believe that the EP would've sounded better if the vocals were turned up a bit and given more emphasis which it truly deserves. Aside for that, everything is beyond good.