“Shining” encapsulates the profound duality of the human experience and the band's enduring brilliance. The album explores the intrinsic challenges of being human, contrasting the beauty and purity within individuals with the transformation that occurs when we come together, chasing us away from innocence like rats from Eden. It highlights the struggle and disillusionment in human interactions. Marking 23 years of their musical progression, “Shining” also symbolizes the band's pride and resilience, showcasing their brightest and strongest work to date. This album is a testament to the band’s artistic legacy, intertwining existential reflections with their characteristic majestic sound.”

“Innocence Was Long Forgotten” is the first track, and I believe it was the first single release also. What struck me most about this leading song is the way that the band embraced bold melodies. There are no harsh vocals, and there is not an exceptionally heavy backbone either. “What I Have Become” however, harkens back to the sound that many long time fans are more familiar with. Harsh vocals roar out over a slow and heavy bed of guitar rhythms, and they are as vital as ever. But the clean melodies in contrast are fantastic, and the chorus pushes a big, memorable hook. “Melancholy” is another bruiser of a song, and like any good fight, the bruises don’t show until after the dust is cleared. This song drips with feelings of sadness and regret.

“Under the Moon & the Sun” is another powerful but melodic song, and these two things the band has always done very well. Much of the magic comes out of the hidden box in the chorus, where it breaks out in all directions. The piano and bass notes after the second chorus are nothing short of gorgeous. “November Dust” moves slowly, like the flowers of fall clinging to one final breath of warm air before the snow settles in. But the cold parts for just a few more moments, allowing the warmth to envelope the listener, and shield them from winters frigid bite. “Tonight Pain Believes” treads lightly at first, like someone who is trying to push the pain down inside. Once again, the chorus springs forth with an emotionally packed plea.

“Charcoal Sky” might be the fervent Metal track that many of you were waiting for. It is weighted, ominous, and the guttural vocals reverberate in your head. The mighty sound makes the lighter moments more enjoyable as well. The lengthy title track closes the album, and it does indeed have a shimmering quality to it. It combines the best of everything that I have heard on the album so far. The guitars echo with reverb at times, and put you through the ringer at other. The vocals are incredibly expressive. For me, it brings a radiant element of hope to the album, even with the sting of the guttural vocals. This song is so gorgeous, it hurts to listen to.

This album shows that even as veterans, the band didn’t play it safe or rely on familiar formulas. Instead, they boldly mixed the raw bite of Metal and guttural vocals with moments of delicate piano and vulnerable, clean singing. It’s a striking contrast that shouldn’t work—but it does. The heaviness feels even more intense because of the tender, atmospheric sections, and the band demonstrates masterful control in balancing these elements. Each track flows with purpose, proving they’re still willing to take risks and evolve without losing their signature intensity.