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Haken In Concert
In prog and metal circles, few young bands have made more of an impact than Haken. The London group wield a sharp eye for adventurous arrangements and instrumentation, and they aren't afraid to take risks — whether they're exploring sprawling post-rock on 2014's Restoration EP or incorporating inspirations from synth-heavy 1980s prog on 2016's Affinity.
Tapping former Periphery bassist Adam Getgood to mix 2018's Vector was an even smarter move. In his hands, head-spinning tracks like the single "Puzzle Box" — whose music includes Tool-caliber chugging, intricate hard rock, and synth-driven rhythmic scrambles — offer a fresh spin on progressive metal. Vocalist Ross Jennings often sounds like a dead ringer for Incubus' Brandon Boyd, in the way he never loses the melodic edge to his keening vocals, although his range is such that he can also turn on a dime and be gruff when need be.
Jennings and Richard Henshall co-founded Haken in 2007. The band — whose name has no particular meaning, members have said — put together several demos and started playing out. From there, things accelerated quickly. Haken first inked a deal with Sensory Records, which released the band's first two albums (2010's Aquarius and 2011's Visions). The band then jumped to Inside Out Music starting with 2013's The Mountain.
In 2016, the members of Haken served as live instrumental backup in Mike Portnoy's Shattered Fortress, the ambitious project helmed by the former Dream Theater drummer. Not only was that a sign of respect from one of progressive metal's biggest names, but it also underscored Haken's monstrous live abilities.
Incredibly, the band navigates disparate tempos and styles with ease in concert — don't be surprised to catch an air drummer (or three) having a ball in the crowd, as Haken's members themselves smash stereotypes and add charismatic flash to their performances.
These guys sounded incredible. Each player is a virtuoso, but they focus on the songs and arrangements rather than highlighting individual skills. Great dynamics from bone crushing heaviness to spirit lifting beauty.
While exceptional musicianship is a staple in progressive music, these guys are an absolute standout. Stellar performances from every member.
First rock show with my 12 years old son! We had the opportunity to meet the band before : incredible gentlemen with great respect for their fans! Amazing setlist /sound/visuals! True musicianship from every members of Haken. Corona was perfect for that show! A night we will remember!
Haken are musical wizards and total pros at making the best of the
Great energy with the crowd. Great atmosphere and crowd energy. Sound quality was really good. One of the best shows I have been to in the last couple years.
Great show by a fantastic band! This venue gets lots of great shows. I look forward to many more!
AMAZING SHOW. These guys are going to make it big in the prog scene.
I was very glad to see Haken for the first time during their NA tour. They were really good live, especially Ross. Also, there was a blackout in the area and the guys started late, but were kind enough to play the full set with a little extra for those of us who stuck around.
I went to this show to see Thank You Scientist - my favorite up and coming prog rock band. I wasn't too familiar with Haken until this show, but they were fantastic! 8-string guitars, 6-string bass, all kinds of cutting edge keyboard gear. Very complex rhythms and instrumental passages, but the vocals added heart to the music - a great combination of technical music with emotion. I would strongly recommend this double bill as they continue their tour around the country.
