Valhalore – Beyond the Stars (2025)
Label: ROAR / Reigning Phoenix Music
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ (10/10)
There are albums… and then there are journeys. Valhalore’s Beyond the Stars is the latter—a cinematic, emotionally-driven metal odyssey that sweeps you off your feet and doesn’t let go until the final note rings out. It’s more than a comeback; it’s a statement. This is metal at its absolute finest, and a serious contender for Album of the Year.
We begin gently with “Life”, a delicate instrumental that sets the emotional tone with elegance and grace. It’s the calm before the storm—and it flows perfectly into “Edge of Forever”, a soaring opening track that showcases everything Valhalore do best. It’s melodic, punchy, and full of energy—honestly, it could’ve been the lead single. If you’ve never heard Valhalore before, this is your gateway track. Every member brings something special, and it all comes together here.
Then comes “The Storm”, and the title couldn’t be more fitting. This is Valhalore at their heaviest—dark, brooding, and utterly ferocious. Yet, even in the chaos, there’s a moment of respite: a short acoustic break that flickers like hope in a tempest before the track launches back into full-blown aggression. It’s theatrical, intense, and guaranteed to be a monster live.
“Within the Fire” follows, continuing the momentum but with a more uplifting, rallying feel. It’s a fist-in-the-air anthem that you just know crowds will be shouting along to—hopeful, empowering, and driven by a sense of purpose.
Then everything strips away with the stunning instrumental “Dusk”—just piano and strings, creating a space to breathe before the emotional centrepiece of the album, “Wayfinder”. This track is simply spine-tingling. It feels like the turning point in a grand saga, where the hero finds their way again. Lachlan’s vocals are heartfelt and commanding, and Sophie’s flute work is breathtaking. This is one of the most beautiful songs Valhalore have ever written.
The soft, flowing instrumental “Dawn” arrives next, with the gentle sounds of water and flute setting up “Horizon”, the album’s lead single. This is peak Valhalore—blistering drums, soaring choruses, guttural vocals, and folk instrumentation woven seamlessly throughout. It’s cinematic, powerful, and destined to become a fan favourite.
From here, the album kicks into high gear with “The World Between”, a personal standout. It’s fast, melodic, and packed with energy, boasting one of the biggest choruses on the record. It wouldn’t surprise me if this one becomes a single in its own right.
We slow things down again with “Aether”, another short instrumental that sets the stage for the album’s emotional climax: “Heart of the Sea”. Featuring the enchanting vocals of Anna Murphy (Cellar Darling, ex-Eluveitie), this ballad is rich with feeling and atmosphere. Her voice blends beautifully with Lachlan’s, and while it’s one of the softest tracks on the album, it’s also one of the most powerful.
Finally, we arrive at “A Walk Among the Stars”—the grand finale. This track is a masterclass in everything Valhalore have built across the album. Thunderous drumming and ferocious growls give way to haunting acoustic passages and soaring melodies. It’s massive in scale and emotion—a true closing chapter that ties the entire journey together. It feels like the final battle, the hero’s last stand, and the emotional resolution all in one.
Beyond the Stars isn’t just a great album—it’s a cinematic, emotionally resonant experience that demands to be played from start to finish. Don’t put this on shuffle; this is a story. Let it take you on the ride.
10 out of 10. A monumental release—and a strong frontrunner for Album of the Year.
Valhalore have always had potential. With Beyond the Stars, they’ve fully realised it. This is the album that cements their place at the top of Australia’s metal scene—and beyond.
