A mainstay of the local metal scene since its formation in 2001, female-fronted band Rising Sunset’s first recorded offering was a mini-album by the name of Rhema, which reflected their power metal leanings to the fullest.

Full-length debut album Equinox saw the band develop its sound further, sharpening its strong points, while introducing a deeper symphonic element that has continued to evolve, as is evident from the band’s latest offering.

Released online as a promotional taster of where the band is at musically at the moment, The Battle of Thermopylae is a powerful song that embodies the band’s roots. The band’s symphonic tendencies are now enhanced with a gothic element that is melodic at its core without losing any of its obscurity.

It is quite possible that the various line-up changes the band has undergone have also fuelled its evolving sound. But at its core, this is a band that has never stopped seeking its own place and its own style, and not just within the local metal scene. This will be more than evident on the band’s third release, Decretum, off which the new song is taken. The new album is shaped by stronger symphonic and gothic characteristics, mixed with old-school metal elements.

Propelled by potent guitar riffs and dynamic instrumentation and orchestration, the songs are further punctuated by the contrasting soprano and growling vocals that add another dimension to the overall sound. This can perhaps be described as a journey through brutal metal, with soaring melodies and intricate songwriting.

Currently still a work-in-progress, Decretum is scheduled for release towards the end of the year. However, its content will most definitely feature in the band’s live performances this year, the first of which will be at the Shellshock Metal Fest on March 8.

Rising Sunset is Sergio Bellizzi (drums), Cliff Smith (bass), Carlo Calamatta (guitars, vocals), Ian Spiteri (keyboards) and Christa Calamatta (vocals).