HAKEN Unleashes a Sonic Fever Dream with New EP
UK progressive metal stalwarts HAKEN have always danced to the beat of their own drum, and their latest offering, "in a fever dream", is no exception. Following the ambitious and bewildering "Fauna" and the expansive live collection "Liveforms: An Evening With Haken", the band emerges from the shadows with a five-song, 27-minute EP that hints at a thrilling rebirth after the departure of bassist Conner Green earlier this year. This release doesn't just represent yet another chapter; it signals a bold evolution in the HAKEN saga.
The title track, "in a fever dream", serves as a striking introduction to this new era. With its elegant yet unsettling soundscape, HAKEN deftly navigates the terrain between atmospheric electronics and thunderous metal. Frontman Ross Jennings delivers an unparalleled vocal performance, battling through a tempest of rolling keyboards and intricate post-djent riffs. This seven-minute odyssey is less about complexity and more about emotional impact, encapsulating a sense of turbulent melancholy that resonates deeply, featuring massive melodic hooks that cut through the layered chaos like a beacon.
As the EP unfolds, the tracks become increasingly succinct, yet no less powerful. "delirium" stands out as a bombastic anthem, with a haunting chorus that lingers like a ghostly echo. The song twists and turns through electrifying grooves and ambient metal landscapes. Meanwhile, "eclipsed by you" presents a daring departure, showcasing mesmerizing post-rock elements where Jennings' ethereal vocals float above a sea of vibrant synths and dynamic drumming, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that feels both futuristic and nostalgic.
"bleeding sky" offers a slower burn, building tension with a haunting intro before unleashing a barrage of gritty guitars and a captivating chorus that pulls you into its depths. The EP closes with "lotus," a track that harkens back to HAKEN's classic prog roots. It’s a lush journey that mirrors the title track’s emotional weight while allowing the band to showcase their instrumental prowess. The song ebbs and flows, punctuated by Jennings' bittersweet vocals, culminating in a life-affirming crescendo tinged with melancholy.
While the future of HAKEN remains shrouded in mystery, "in a fever dream" is a testament to their relentless pursuit of innovation. It’s a daring exploration that blends the past and present, solidifying their status as genre pioneers. With this EP, HAKEN continues to challenge expectations and redefine the boundaries of progressive metal—brilliant and audacious, just as we like it.