Progressive metal outfit Lunar returns with their fourth full-length album, Tempora Mutantur (January 31st), a sprawling exploration of time’s inevitable march and the emotional highs and lows it brings. From intricate instrumentation to deeply layered compositions, the album delivers an experience that is as dynamic as it is thought-provoking.
Grounded in the seasons and the cyclical nature of existence, each track on Tempora Mutantur stands out with unique character, yet contributes to the cohesive narrative. The opener, “A Summer to Forget,” juxtaposes a buoyant horn-driven arrangement with darker emotional undertones that sets the tone for the album’s intricate interplay between sound and sentiment.
“Fall Back Into Old Habits,” at over 11 minutes, serves as an epic centrepiece by blending growling vocals with shredding solos in a relentless and heavy showcase. While “Seasonal Interlude” offers a moment of reflection and is anchored by soulful cello work that transitions into an explosive climax featuring avant-garde saxophone.
The album’s closing trilogy, “Tempora Mutantur Parts I-III”, captures a wide emotional range, from soft piano-driven introspection to furious guitars and harmonized choruses, culminating in “Watch the Weather Change,” that balances heaviness with melodic appeal.
The collaborative nature of Lunar shines through in every facet of this album. With contributions from seasoned musicians across the progressive and metal spectrum, the interplay of instruments and ideas feels meticulously crafted. The addition of vibrant guest solos and harmonies elevates the compositions, creating moments of awe without overshadowing the band’s core identity. The band’s new lineup, featuring Carlos Alvarez and Connor McCray on guitars and Anthony Stahl on keyboards, brings fresh energy, while notable guest contributions from Wayne Ingram (Wilderun) and Sam Vallen (Caligula’s Horse) add additional flair.
With Tempora Mutantur lyrically reflecting on the passage of time and its impact on our lives, the band’s co-founder Alex Bosson adds,
“This album deals with something everyone can relate to and no one can escape: the passing of time. We get older, our perspective changes, and we gain some things, and lose others… and we struggle and fight along the way.”
The band’s ability to weave these themes into their music without losing the balance between heaviness and melody is a testament to their growth. Tempora Mutantur offers a vivid reflection on time’s relentless progression and the shared human experience it brings and Lunar has crafted a progressive metal album that pushes creative boundaries while staying true to the band’s essence. It is a triumph of musicianship, collaboration, and storytelling and an album that rewards repeated listens with new details and insights.
