Aquarius
Aquarius gives Haken an ambitious starting point. The London band's debut moves through long progressive rock and metal arrangements, using melodic singing, busy keyboards and detailed guitar work to connect its seven songs. The playing is confident, and the mixture has plenty of character. It also makes for a demanding first meeting with a band who rarely choose the shortest route between ideas.
Streams shows both the appeal and the difficulty. Its piano-led introduction creates an inviting setting, with Ross Jennings' voice adding another clear melodic line. The arrangement then moves through more intricate passages and a much harsher vocal approach. That contrast broadens the sound, although the growls can feel awkward beside the warmer material around them.
The album's strongest quality is its willingness to make these changes part of a larger musical journey. Energetic instrumental sections sit beside more patient, atmospheric writing, giving the guitars and keyboards different roles as each piece develops. The quieter passages let Jennings' voice feel more natural and expressive. In the louder sections, the instrumental weight can be more convincing than the vocal force.
Celestial Elixir brings the approach together on the largest scale. Its opening has the sweep of a rock overture before the piano and quieter singing draw the arrangement inward. A playful section with a big-band flavour changes the mood again, followed by more technical guitar and keyboard work. The return of the vocal material gives the long closing piece a useful point of connection.
There is no shortage of skill, but the number of changes sometimes becomes the main attraction. Extended solos and elaborate keyboard passages will suit listeners who already enjoy this style more than those looking for a direct introduction to heavy music. The drum sound also lacks some of the weight needed to match the largest arrangements.
Even with those reservations, Aquarius has a clear sense of possibility. Haken combine older progressive rock colours with a heavier attack and a willingness to be playful. The album needs time and attention, but its best passages make the effort feel worthwhile. It is an energetic debut with enough musical identity to survive its occasional excess.
