HAVEN – Shut Up And Listen (2015)
Swedes HAVEN formed in 2010 and already debuted on CD three years ago, however their new release “Shut Up And Listen” is my first listen from the band. It piqued my interest because vocalist / guitarist Patrick Cross was the frontman in the very solid Scandi band Reckless and their self-titled album appeared in 1994 (then known as Patrik Axelsson).
Haven’s music can be described as a mix of classic hard rock with a touch melodic metal (at places), the latter mostly due some edgy riffs. Overall, they got a sound like present Europe with some Scorpions plus other acts of this ilk.
The songs are quite elaborated with a personal touch, even adding some electronics / synths in the background. Also, as all members provide backing vocals, the choruses are layered yet not ‘sweet’.
“Criminal” opens with vocals samples / synths as intro, then developing into a certain Scorpions vibe, with a broken riff and a chorus in a groovy Europe 2000’s way. Next “Land of Desolation” is heavier and modern, where part of vocals during the verses are through some effects and the keyboards provide texture below the strong riffs. Very interesting song.
“Hysteria” is one of the best cuts with an atmosphere similar to second half of the ’80s Black Sabbath but much more melodic. The bass pumps the song, the chorus adds some martial backing vocals and in the middle it turns slow, with clean guitars creating a cool break.
“Catch” is the more ‘melodic hard rock’ song on the album, sounding more German than Swedish (reminds me Victory) and the guitar riff is muscular and vibrant. “Gone” is a ‘heavy ballad’ ala Scorpions circa 1983, however more meaty and dark. Another solid track.
“Balls” is heavy and kickin’ where the melodic metal flair of Haven arises, same with “Living Our Dream”,
but things return to hard rock with the groovy “Licking on the Wall”.
Haven is a pretty interesting band trying to create some variation using classic hard rock patterns injected with some traditional melodic metal edge.
Most songs in “Shut Up And Listen” include little but effective electronic / synth effects, changes in the guitar / bass sound and well arranged backing vocals, all providing a distinctive touch to the group. In some songs, Patrick Cross’ vocals are an acquired taste, but this is just another factor to give Haven a personal sound. There’s fine guitar solos and production could be brighter, but serves its purpose.
Different and good.
01 – Criminal
02 – Land of Desolation
03 – Hysteria
04 – Catch
05 – Gone
06 – Balls
07 – Living Our Dream
08 – Shot from Behind
09 – Licking on the Wall
10 – Warlord Warrior
Patrick Cross – Lead vocals, guitars
Mark Hosri – Lead guitars, backing vocals
Mr Jay – Bass, backing vocals
Rob Serghini – Drums, backing vocals
PRE ORDER:
www.amazon.de/Shut-Up-Listen-Haven/dp/B018VZIFDY/
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