From Frontiers Music, “Progressive symphonic metal band SCARDUST are thrilled to announce the release of their anticipated new studio album “Souls,” out on July 18th, 2025, via Frontiers Music Srl. The band commented on the new album by saying: “Souls” is a deep personal journey for us, combining everything from intricate progressive elements to sweeping symphonic passages, anthemic choruses and epic choirs. This album is a milestone for the band. It contains the band’s DNA while experimenting with different writing and composing methods, involving every single musician in the band, resulting in the creation of the next evolution of our sound and pushing the boundaries of what we can express through music.”

“Long Forgotten Song” is first, and it comes out the gate with a firm sound, symphonic elements, and it led by the very well-trained vocals of Noa Gruman. They can be beautifully gentle, and also roar like a beast. “My Haven” has hastier qualities, and that familiar combination of blurred lines between Power Metal and Symphonic Metal, and the vocal work is outstanding here. The energy of the song can’t be underscored enough, but it was over fairly quickly as well. “Dazzling Darkness” is another short song, but this time, it is gentle, emotional, and warm. Still, there are somber tones here also, perfect for the title of the song. “Unreachable” is longer. It begins with soothing tones, and segues into pure power and emotion. There are subtle key changes that keep you guessing, and keep your feet moving.

“Searching Echoes” is more of a traditional Symphonic Metal song, in terms of the amount of orchestration that is used, and the Progressive elements come through as well. They don’t overtake the emotional impact of the music though. The final song is divided into three movements. The first is dark, powerful, and energetic, and now my head is moving along. Some of the notes she hits are totally out of bounds. The second movement sways a bit more, with some unplanned searching. There are also some unexpected shifts. The third and final movement is the longest on the album, and it seems the band saved some last minute bombast for this tightly arranged song. The Progressive elements are on fire.

It’s apparent to me that the band is centered around their vocalist, as many bands are. She has a special voice though…one that doesn’t come around very often, and the band is excellent at supporting that voice.