Single Review: A Light Within - Aura Flux (Progressive Rock, 2026)

The newest output by this progressive collective isn't "just" a single but nearly a new birth of the band.

A new A Light Within single has been released - is it able to keep the high standard the band has become known for?

A Light Within were amongst the first bands I've been able to review here on the Heavy Metal Underdogs blog. They've released many EPs which were sometimes more sometimes less diving deep into the intensive classic prog rock genre. In recent times the band decided to put out singles.

"Aura Flux" the newest single release comes with a duration of nearly 13 minutes. It starts slowly like it's trying to find the proper notes at the beginning but starts with a louder intro afterwards. It all falls into a sea of softer and slower notes along with the vocals starting to perform with variations. 

The next part introduces itself with a different set of drum pattern and guitars. The vocals change once again giving it a darker touch. Finally it transforms into some rough eruption for some time just to open the way for more subtle guitar work. A section of classic psychedelic sounds is about to add even more joy into the listeners ears. 

I love this single because of the many, many parts it comes with. Times flies and that's often a sign that a band has created something really enjoyable. Just give it a try in the player below. Follow A Light Within further on socials like Instagram or the network Facebook - I'm looking forward to more new sounds by this band. If you like progressive sounds this is a must listen. They've done it really well to answer the question underneath the picture. I've not enjoyed post rock psychedelic sounds as much as I did with "Aura Flux".

Juan S. Garces reflects upon his Personal Warfare

Musicians are taking many challenges and risks in order to make the dream come true. One of them is the guitarist and producer Juan S. Garces based in Quinto, Equador. He started his journey in a home where music was a essential part of the day to day. Over the years he developed his skills with academic as well as autodidactic studies. 

After some time of performing with renowned bands of the rock / metal scene as well as with other genres he is now ready to publish his cover letter to the world by releasing his first solo album that talks about personal experiences, intimate thoughts, feelings and reflections that have set a deep mark on him.

The cover of Juan S. Garces debut album invites to think about the meaning of the elements that can be seen.

The music quickly jumped into my ears with it's mixture of compact guitar riffing, direct drums and highly melodic vocals. While the overall tone focuses on heavy progressive notes it's fine to hear that some easier and lighter melodies always remain wandering through the music. The duration of the seven tracks of the album varies but with it's many changes time starts to fly once you hit the play button. 

Amongst my favorites are the softer tracks "In my mind" and "Human". Both show how deeply emotional music can be and that Garces as a composer knows how to take the listener on a journey with his music.

Just try the first song "My bid" here in the player. The full album can be heard on the website of Juan S. Garces. There's a possibility to purchase the music for download or on a Compact Disc.