What does Fauna sound like?

A vibrant exploration of progressive metal, weaving intricate melodies with thematic depth and dynamic shifts. Rooted in progressive metal and progressive rock. Start with "Taurus".

Is Fauna a good place to start with Haken?

Yes, Fauna is recommended as a starting point for new Haken listeners. A vibrant exploration of progressive metal, weaving intricate melodies with thematic depth and dynamic shifts. Released on March 3, 2023, 'Fauna' is Haken's sixth studio album, following their 2020 project 'Virus.' This release further solidifies their status within the progressive metal scene as they continue to evolve their sound and artistic vision.

Fauna works well if you're into dynamic progression with peaks, wave-like pacing for immersion and instrumental tracks enhance atmosphere.

How many songs are on Fauna?

Fauna has 18 tracks, running approximately 124 minutes.

Fauna

Haken · 2023

124 min · 18 tracks · progressive metal

A vibrant exploration of progressive metal, weaving intricate melodies with thematic depth and dynamic shifts.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Taurus Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Nightingale — This track epitomizes the album's thematic exploration of nature and introspection, featuring soaring vocals and intricate instrumental arrangements that showcase Haken's signature style.
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Elephants Never Forget — Clocking in at over eleven minutes, this epic track stands out for its ambitious structure and emotional depth, effectively capturing the essence of memory and loss.
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Sempiternal Beings — Bolstered by its powerful lyrical content and complex rhythms, this song exemplifies the band's fusion of progressive rock elements with profound philosophical themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

68 /100

Alpine

Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and dynamic shifts but has a somewhat conventional structure for its genre.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that build in intensity, culminating in a climactic instrumental section before shifting to more subdued themes.
The album includes both vocal and instrumental versions of each track, allowing listeners to experience the compositions in different contexts.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic progression with peaks
wave-like pacing for immersion
instrumental tracks enhance atmosphere
thoughtful listening for reflection
vibrant soundscapes for exploration

Maybe skip if you

prefer short, standalone tracks
seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Further solidifies Haken's status with innovative compositions and acclaim.
Themes: nature's introspection· memory and loss· philosophical exploration
Career context: Released on March 3, 2023, 'Fauna' is Haken's sixth studio album, following their 2020 project 'Virus.' This release further solidifies their status within the progressive metal scene as they continue to evolve their sound and artistic vision.
Stylistic neighbors: Leprous· Between the Buried and Me· Symphony X