From their website, "Lufeh, Duca, and Deio formed their first band together back in 1992. That long friendship and musical history are a big part of the chemistry behind LUFEH today. Lufeh later met Gera when he was the producer of the Oficina G3 albums in 2002 and 2006, connecting another essential piece of the story that would eventually become LUFEH. "Overwhelmed continues that story more than three decades later, bringing those roots together in a new phase built around heavier arrangements, emotional melodies, and a renewed creative vision. The band's new album brings LUFEH's cinematic progressive rock/metal sound into a more emotional and expansive new chapter." The album has eight songs, and "He Commands the Sun and the Stars" is first.

There is an ominous sound out of the gate, as if you are being ushered to somewhere you haven't seen before. In addition to being heavy at times, it also highlights dual vocal harmonies from a man and a woman. They hit accents along the way as well, and the sound is more melodic than Progressive, although you can also hear the band's excellent sense of musicianship. "Breathe" hears the band having some fun with their music, and isn't that what music us supposed to be about? It's an energetic jaunt, and some of the vocals you could even call sultry. The focus of the song is on the development of melody…where it should be. "Double Dip" has a tougher sound, from a crunchy guitar riff playing in unison with keyboards and the bass and drums are in perfect symmetry.

"Overwhelmed" has a combination of a big, punchy lead-in with some weighted and dexterous guitar work, and even some violin as icing on the cake. The vocal work is excellent here, sometimes a low whisper and other times full-on belts. "Feels Like I'm a Ghost" is as emotional as it sounds, leading in with solemn piano notes. It's just another instrument that the band has obviously mastered. Take in those subtle meter shifts…they are done expertly, and the energy on the album so far is quite lively. "Live the New Today" is like a curtain call of sorts to quit feeling sorry for yourself and trying to make the most of each day. Many of the lyrics are reflective, and some of the music is even dark, but the message is loud and clear. Those closing bass notes and lead breaks are outstanding.

"War of Emotions" is faster-moving and with a richer sound, and the keyboards fit well here with the clean vocals. It has a hastier sound akin to the title, and the bass work is excellent as well. "End of the Tunnel" is the final cut, and in comes more spacey keyboards. Listen to the band hit every accent along the way without missing even a beat. It's sexy, sultry, and dark at times, but light steams down from the heavens. Lead breaks soar, and the melody line gels. What grabbed me most on the album, besides the deeply personal approach to songwriting, was the level of talent the band has. We all know that talent isn't the measuring stick to success, but it never hurts. This band has plenty, but they don't let it overtake their sound. This was a feel good album with plenty of substance.