HAKEN Explores Modern Rock and Atmospheric Metal on In a Fever Dream

HAKEN launches its five-song EP, In a Fever Dream, with a title track that immediately establishes a fierce, modern identity. Propelled by a driving rhythm, the song showcases a commanding vocal performance from Ross Jennings before erupting into a wall of heavy modern rock reminiscent of NOTHING MORE. Ethereal harmonies guide the arrangement toward a towering chorus, while subtle touches recalling BAD OMENS and SLEEP TOKEN add contemporary depth without overshadowing HAKEN's distinctive progressive identity. Echoing growls emerge over TOOL-inspired syncopation during the song's closing moments, resolving into a hypnotic rhythmic chant that places Jennings' vocals front and center while laying the foundation for the EP that follows.

Midtempo modern rock tailored for SiriusXM rotation takes center stage on "Delirium." Anchored by Jennings' soaring melodies, Ray Hearne's thunderous drumming, Richard Henshall's gritty guitar work and Pete Jones' atmospheric synthesizers, the track delivers one of the EP's most immediate and memorable hooks. Its expansive chorus feels tailor-made for festival stages and heavy radio airplay alike.

Henshall's crystalline guitar tone introduces "Eclipsed By You," where tightly controlled vocal phrasing and intricate rhythmic interplay create a sense of constant forward momentum. Tastefully applied vocal processing enhances Jennings' performance without overwhelming it, while guest bass contributions from Adam "Nolly" Getgood and Bryan Beller add depth and definition to the mix. The result is an adventurous composition that continually pushes the band's sonic boundaries.

"Bleeding Sky" reaches back to the compositional depth of 1970s progressive rock pioneers such as KING CRIMSON and YES. Delicate instrumental passages from Henshall and Jones evoke the gentle rhythm of falling rain, providing the perfect backdrop for another exceptional vocal performance from Jennings. Producer George Lever leaves an unmistakable imprint on the recording, crafting a spacious, modern sound that enhances every layer of the arrangement. Lever continues to establish himself as one of heavy music's premier producers, consistently elevating artists without sacrificing their individual identities.

The EP concludes with "Lotus," opening with haunting piano and one of Jennings' most restrained vocal performances before steadily building into an emotionally charged finale. As the arrangement expands, Jennings demonstrates remarkable dynamic range, delivering a performance that stands comfortably alongside the genre's finest vocalists. It is a fitting conclusion to an EP that balances technical sophistication with memorable songwriting, leaving listeners eager to hear where HAKEN ventures next.