HAKEN

Since their formation in London (UK) in 2007, Haken has been making a name for themselves in the prog metal scene with their complex compositions and the technical skills of its members. Ross Jennings (vocals), Richard Henshall (guitar and keyboard), Charles Griffiths (guitar), Conner Green (bass), Peter Jones (keyboard), and Raymond Hearne (drums) are currently promoting their seventh studio album, “Fauna” (2023).

Two decades ago, the group began with teenage friends Richard Henshall, Matthew Marshall, and Ross Jennings, who formed Haken after several jam sessions. On some occasions, Henshall has mentioned that “Haken” was the name of a fictional character created by him and his friends during their school days.

The first two albums, “Aquarius” (2010) and “Visions” (2011), helped the band transition from a rising name to a key player in prog metal. This was due to long songs and complex structures, such as the title track “Visions.” At 22 minutes in length, it concludes the conceptual album’s story, in which a young man sees his own death in his dreams, believes it will happen, and spends the rest of his life trying to avoid it. The song was written by Ross Jennings based on a premonition of his own death.

The conceptual “The Mountain” (2013) explored new territories and is regarded as one of the best examples of modern prog metal. Following the EP “Restoration” (2014), which contained three reworked tracks from the demo “Enter the 5th Dimension” (2008), “Affinity” (2016) came out with a more direct approach and retro-futuristic influences, incorporating 80s-style synthesizers. Later, “Vector” (2018) was considered a return to their heavier roots, featuring shorter tracks.

“Virus” (2020) presents a story set 20 years after the events of “Vector,” addressing themes of institutional abuse, physically and mentally abusive relationships, anxiety, depression, and suicidal tendencies. Their most recent release, “Fauna” (2023), features each track linked to both a spirit animal and a human aspect, highlighted by the singles “Nightingale” and “The Alphabet of Me.”

Ross Jennings has stated that the band is focused on expanding its presence in live shows and festivals. In the past, they faced the challenge of being seen as “too metal” for progressive festivals and “too progressive” for metal festivals, making it difficult to secure top billing. However, Haken is determined to make their tours and concerts an unforgettable experience for their fans worldwide. That’s exactly what they promise for Bangers Open Air 2025.