From Athens, Greece, come Heavy Metal/Progressive Metal band ORRA. Formed in the Fall of 2019 by a collective of focused musicians in different projects throughout the years. What defines ORRA in respect of sound and direction is melody intertwined with an emotive and diverse ebb and flow. ORRA are in the mindset of releasing -through us- the sophomore album entitled "Glimmer Of Hope", following the well acclaimed "Unbounded" (2022) bringing to the fray vocalist Louis Hatzimihalis. The album has eight songs.

“All the Roads” is first. The effects in the guitars are nifty, the bass work is excellent, and the singer does indeed have a strong but soothing voice. Right off the bat, I am reminded of a band like FATES WARNING in their sound. “Brace the Fall” has more tender qualities, but also a sturdy backbone. The sound is mysterious, and moody, and the chorus is great—there is a big hook in it that the band could ride for days. “In Light’s Shadow” has a strong melody like that I find myself immediately wanting to sing along with. You can hear some amateur qualities in the mix, but that is OK, because the band is shining through them. “In Pulse (The Long Errand)” has a slower and steadier sound, which is augmented with another big punch in the chorus.

“Infinity” has darker and heavier tones, and in this song, you really get a sense of the band’s strong musicianship. There are some dissonant tones in the mix, and it makes me feel like being caught in a storm, with shifting winds and grey skies. “Seclusion” is soft and gentle with touching melodies. They ride out another big chorus with strong vocal harmonies as well. “Here Come the Tears” closes the album, another tender offering that drips with feelings of things lost, and regrets. This album did indeed have a diverse ebb and flow, and I hear a lot of promise from the band. They are only a few steps away from a breakthrough in my opinion, but as it is, this was a very pleasant listening experience.