What makes Restoration by Haken notable?

The EP showcases Haken's ability to blend complex arrangements with accessible melodies, leading to its positive reception among fans and critics alike. It serves as a bridge between their previous work and future projects, influencing the progressive rock genre by demonstrating the evolution of their sound. Restoration is Haken's first EP, released after their critically acclaimed album The Mountain in 2013. The band was at a pivotal moment, having established themselves within the progressive metal scene with a growing fanbase and critical recognition. This release further solidified their innovative approach to songwriting and musicianship.

How many songs are on Restoration?

Restoration has 3 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Released 12 years ago this October

Restoration

Haken · 2014

33 min · 3 tracks · progressive metal

A sweeping blend of intricate melodies and heavy riffs that captures the essence of modern progressive metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Darkest Light — This track opens the EP with a powerful statement, showcasing Haken's signature mix of heaviness and intricate musicality. Its dynamic shifts and emotive vocals set the tone for the rest of the release.
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Earthlings — With its expansive structure and thought-provoking lyrics, this track explores themes of existence and humanity, embodying Haken's philosophical lyrical approach while pushing musical boundaries.
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Crystallised — As the longest track on the EP, it encapsulates the band's musical prowess through its multifaceted composition, combining progressive elements with melodic hooks that linger long after listening.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

Haken's 'Restoration' blends intricate compositions with accessible melodies, marking a solid entry in progressive metal.

What we noticed

The EP closes with a lengthy instrumental section in 'Crystallised' that emphasizes atmospheric elements and complex arrangements.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 3/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Restoration serves as a bridge in their catalog, showcasing their evolving sound.
Themes: philosophical reflection· dynamic contrasts
Career context: Restoration is Haken's first EP, released after their critically acclaimed album The Mountain in 2013. The band was at a pivotal moment, having established themselves within the progressive metal scene with a growing fanbase and critical recognition. This release further solidified their innovative approach to songwriting and musicianship.
Stylistic neighbors: Leprous· Between the Buried and Me· Symphony X