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THIS HAVEN - TODAY A WHISPER TOMORROW A STORM
VIC RECORDS
METAL TO INFINITY
This Haven is a Swedish band that declares to be influenced by several genres like Hardcore, Stoner Rock and Progressive Metal. Not that I am a fan of these subgenres, except for Progressive Metal, but I admit I was surprised by this release. To be honest I don't actually see the link with Hardcore but that's probably up to me...
It's a fact that This Haven overall has a very groovy touch, here and there you'll hear elements from Grunge bands like Pearl Jam and Alice In Chains. Nevertheless This Haven sounds much darker and more intense or should I say heavier? The points of similarity have more to do with the melodic vocal lines and the sound of Patrik Karssons' voice. This man, with the looks of an alternative figure, has power in his voice and for sure he's the most remarkable member of the band.
This Haven rocks with hard hitting heavy grooves. The refrains are pretty 'easy on the ear' and perfect for commercial purposes. I'm quite sure Rock stations will easily bring This Haven on air because a wider crowd is asking for this kind of heavy tunes. Calling This Haven pure Heavy Metal would be a mistake; these guys have a more mainstream sound.
Dan Swano (Nightingale, Edge Of Sanity) helped mixing this release and was impressed by these guys. Well, that's a good start for your 'Curriculum Vitea' I suppose... 'Itch' is one of the best songs on this release and contains a very dark atmosphere. 'Apocalyptical Anthem' starts boring as hell but by adding a surprising middle part, using samples that remind me to Fates Warning, they turn this track into a fantastic one. The semi-ballad, 'Plague', containing a duet, isn't strong enough to take me by the throat.
This Haven has no problem to take all your attention and the rhythms are mostly equal qualified. Not every song will surprise you and This Haven rarely uses solos. You'll have to find your way through this release and I'm quite sure some people will worship this release. I don't but to me this debut album stands tall. My Points: 85/100 (Review by Officer Nice)