The opening piece of the second CD in the Violet Volume series is Thierry Deleruelle’s contest work ‘Sand and Stars’, a vivid musical portrayal of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's dramatic attempt to break the Paris-Saigon speed record, ending in a crash in the Sahara Desert. The composition unfolds in six parts, capturing the anticipation of the flight, the violent crash, and the struggle for survival. Incorporating the vibrant rhythms of an Arabic dance, it reflects the cultural landscape where the pilot was stranded. Cornet and euphonium solos add emotional depth, leading to a finale symbolizing the dramatic rescue. Brass Band Willebroek’s interpretation brings out the piece's intense drama and rich textures. 

Böhme's ‘Concerto in F Minor’, featuring soloist Lode Violet, is a brilliant showcase of technical capability and lyrical expression. Oskar Böhme, a renowned German composer, crafted this concerto with the intention of highlighting the cornet's lyrical side, along with its virtuosic potential. Lode Violet, the principal cornet of Brass Band Willebroek, brings a profound sensitivity and technical precision to the performance, making this interpretation a standout. The concerto is a cornerstone of the classical brass repertoire, demanding not only technical agility but also a deep emotional connection to the music, which Lode Violet delivers impeccably. 

‘Lux’, composed by Roger Derongé, is a deeply personal and radiant tribute to Luc Craps, a dear friend and solo cornetist with Bravoer. After Luc's passing, his wife Erika asked Derongé to compose a piece in his memory. The title, ‘Lux’, meaning "light" not only references Luc's name but also symbolizes the light he brought into the lives of those around him. Known for his positivity, humor, warmth, and enthusiasm, Luc remained a beacon of light even through his illness—a legacy his loved ones wish to honor. The piece begins with four musicians, a nod to ‘Quattre Brass’, the ensemble in which both Luc and Roger played. The music, influenced by the atmospheric style of Ennio Morricone, one of Luc's favorite composers, moves through luminous soundscapes that reflect Luc's spirit and the light he shared with the world. Brass Band Willebroek’s performance of ‘Lux’ captures this emotional depth and clarity, bringing the warmth and brightness of Luc's memory to life, making it a touching highlight of the album.

Bart Leys' ‘Triumphus Vitae’ is an emotional and personal composition that reflects the intense journey of emotions experienced by the composer and his family following his father's diagnosis with a life-threatening illness. The title, meaning “The Triumph of Life" symbolizes the victory of life over adversity, but it also portrays the ongoing battle against illness—a struggle that resonates with countless people and their loved ones. The music traverses a wide emotional landscape, moving from feelings of sadness, fear, and despair to hope, positivity, and a fierce will to fight. These contrasting emotions are masterfully expressed through powerful brass fanfares, lyrical passages, and dynamic shifts, showcasing the full range of the brass band. The piece reaches its climax in a triumphant celebration of life’s victories, large and small, before concluding with a reminder of the continuous battle that so many face. Kevin Van Giel, the principal euphonium of Brass Band Willebroek, takes on the role of soloist, delivering a performance that captures the depth of emotion and the resilience at the heart of this composition. Brass Band Willebroek’s interpretation of ‘Triumphus Vitae’ is both powerful and moving, reflecting the exuberance, vitality, and unyielding spirit that Leys sought to convey in this moving tribute to his father and to all who endure similar battles. 

Philip Sparke's ‘A Road Less Traveled By’ is a compelling three-movement work commissioned as the test piece for the Championship Section at the European Brass Band Championships in Palanga, Lithuania. Originally composed for the 2020 European Championships, which were canceled due to the COVID pandemic, this piece has gained renewed significance as bands prepare to perform it on the stage in 2024. The title and inspiration for the work come from the closing lines of Robert Frost's famous poem, ‘The Road Not Taken’. The poem's reflection on choices and their consequences is echoed in Sparke's music, which, while not programmatic, evokes a journey filled with decisions and their profound impacts. The composition is structured in three distinct movements. The first, Moto Perpetuo, is characterized by relentless energy and drive, setting the tone for the work. The second movement, Nocturne, allows the soloists to shine with complex solos and ensemble passages, showcasing the lyrical beauty and expressive potential of the brass band. The final movement, Scherzo Finale, features Sparke's signature playful rhythms and lively dance-like motifs, building to an energetic and triumphant conclusion. Sparke emphasizes traditional brass band values in both his writing and scoring, creating a piece that challenges bands technically while remaining true to the essence of brass band music. Brass Band Willebroek's interpretation captures the thoughtful nuances and dynamic contrasts of the composition, offering a powerful and moving rendition that honors both the music and the inspiration behind it.

‘Pall Mall’, composed by Jonathan Bates, was written for the Flowers Band's Monopoly-themed set at the 2021 Brass in Concert Championships held at The Sage, Gateshead. This lively and spirited showpiece is crafted in a similar style to W. Hogarth Lear's ‘Pel Mel’, where each section of the band is given a moment to shine, displaying their technical prowess in a vibrant and fast-paced tour of the brass band. Bates captures the bustling energy of London's famous street, with each instrument section taking turns to showcase their skills with flair and precision. The piece is characterized by its catchy melodies and dynamic contrasts, making it an engaging and entertaining addition to any brass band repertoire. Brass Band Willebroek’s performance of ‘Pall Mall’ highlights the ensemble's technical brilliance, particularly in their crisp articulation and seamless transitions between sections. The piece concludes the album with a burst of excitement, leaving listeners with a strong impression of the band’s versatility and energy.