Is Vector a good place to start with Haken?

Yes, Vector is recommended as a starting point for new Haken listeners. A labyrinthine blend of intricate riffs, soaring melodies, and dynamic transitions that challenge the boundaries of progressive metal. By the time 'Vector' was released in 2018, Haken had solidified their reputation within the progressive metal scene following their acclaimed album 'Affinity'. This record came as their fifth studio album, showcasing a mature sound while continuing to push sonic boundaries and explore complex themes.

Vector works well if you're into dynamic exploration with resolution, wave-like pacing creates tension and cerebral themes for deep engagement.

How many songs are on Vector?

Vector has 12 tracks, running approximately 81 minutes.

Released 8 years ago this October

Vector

Haken · 2018

81 min · 12 tracks · progressive metal

A labyrinthine blend of intricate riffs, soaring melodies, and dynamic transitions that challenge the boundaries of progressive metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Good Doctor Start here — This track stands out for its captivating blend of heavy instrumentation and theatrical storytelling that encapsulates the album's exploration of psychological themes.
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Puzzle Box — With its intricate arrangement and shifting time signatures, this song exemplifies Haken's technical brilliance and ability to weave complex narratives through music.
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Veil — As the longest track on the album, 'Veil' showcases Haken's range, moving through ethereal soundscapes and powerful crescendos that reflect the emotional depth of the record.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

71 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

Vector presents intricate compositions and strong cohesion, making it a notable entry in progressive metal.

What we noticed

Each track transitions seamlessly into the next, creating a continuous flow that emphasizes the album's conceptual nature.
The use of contrasting sections within songs showcases both heavy riffs and melodic passages, highlighting the band's technical proficiency.

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

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 exploration with resolution
wave-like pacing creates tension
cerebral themes for deep engagement
instrumental interludes enhance immersion

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
avoid lengthy, complex compositions

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Showcases ambitious songwriting and technical prowess, praised by critics.
Themes: psychological exploration· theatrical storytelling· complex narratives
Career context: By the time 'Vector' was released in 2018, Haken had solidified their reputation within the progressive metal scene following their acclaimed album 'Affinity'. This record came as their fifth studio album, showcasing a mature sound while continuing to push sonic boundaries and explore complex themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Leprous· Between the Buried and Me· Symphony X