With its huge piano chords underscored by a tinkling synth, the intro of ‘Falling’ by Spectral promises big things. Occasionally when it comes to things within the pomp and symphonic metal genres, such intros can lead to a massive disappointment, but it’s really not the case here.

Then, that’s sort of to be expected from musicians who’ve worked hard at building a name for themselves. Spectral might be a new project for 2025, but a couple of the members already have a strong foothold in the UK’s underground metal scene, with drummer Matt Blore having played with Angels Revolt, and guitarist/keys man Fletch being a familiar face due to his work with Disconnected Souls. Joined by vocalist Clark Kelly and bassist Luke Fitzpatrick, the band brings together some very different talents, with the whole sounding much stronger than the sum of the parts.

The band instinctively know their way around a great arrangement, and a very confident verse blends a pomp-esque sense of grandiosity with a light gothic undertone, creating something that sounds like a marriage between Within Temptation and an 80s AOR band. The massive melodic streak running through the core of the track instantly makes it more appealing than so much of the faceless Euro bombast in a similar vein, and although very natural, Clark’s vocals have a strength and emotional pull that really brings out the best in the track’s overall melody.

As things progress, Fletch’s synth orchestration sounds impressive, but its the way he weaves the light melody from the intro between the verses that really makes the track, and reaching full cry during the second verse, Kelly’s voice grows very naturally. By the midpoint, with the rockier edges occasionally subsiding to reveal a huge soulful melody, the track is set to win over fans of the style, even before a couple of its chunkiest riffs present themselves.

This has an arrangement that pulls in the listener gradually, but with Fletch bowing out with one of the band’s heaviest riffs, it’s an arrangement that also understands the importance of a strong climax. Symphonic without being too bombastic, heavy without losing sight of a superb melody and having more of a “song focus” than so much other similar fare, ‘Falling’ should be considered a massive success.

Spectral are preparing to release their debut EP ‘12:12’ on 12th September, and on the strength of this track, it should be a treat. Take a listen below.