Graeme

Great example of its kind, 22 April 2012

If you've read the other reviews, you'll already have seen the mentions of Dream Theater. To be fair, they're entirely justified. That's not to take anything away from Haken, however. DT is a great band, and so is Haken.

This, their first album, tells a rather curious tale of a mermaid-of-sorts (hence the rather stunning cover). That might sound a little silly, but it actually works within the overall context of the album. There are some really good lyrical moments if you sit and listen to this which manages to make the story both interesting and strangely moving.

But what sets Haken apart is the musicianship. All musicians are clearly very proficient, a bit… Read more

The progression of quality, 22 April 2012

I've deliberately waited a few days before reviewing this. I'd read a lot of the stuff going round pre-release, about how emtional the album was, how the band felt at the height of its creative powers, etc. Well, it is emotional, and the band is at its heights. This is, put simply, a stunning album.

The track by track thing isn't for me. This is very much an album, a single concept with a theme running through it. With each listen, it continues to release its secrets and gems. The shades of darkness and light between Vince and Lees' voices is excellent, and they combine well, too. The production is sheer quality, with every aspect of the instruments and voices allowed the… Read more

Actual music from a proper band, 5 Mar 2012

Other reviews say what needs to be said. This band should be bigger. Bruce Soord's voice has qualities of both Yorke and Corgan, but has very much his own sound. The songs are high on melody with well crafted and understated lyrics. The musicianship is excellent. Don't be put off by the 'prog' label (don't understand why anyone would be, though!) - this is prog in the way that OK Computer was prog rather than the twiddly-twiddly-diddly-dee of Yes or ELP. Quickly becoming one of my favourite bands and they deserve every success. Give Pineapple Thief a go and they will light up your eyes.