Is Virus a good place to start with Haken?

Yes, Virus is recommended as a starting point for new Haken listeners. A complex tapestry of intricate rhythms and soaring melodies that explore the dark intersections of humanity and technology. Released on June 19, 2020, Virus is Haken's fifth studio album, following their acclaimed fourth record, Vector. By this point, the band had established themselves as prominent figures in the progressive metal scene, known for their technical prowess and ambitious concept albums.

Virus works well if you're into dynamic progression with resolution, wave-like pacing that evolves and immersive thematic storytelling experience.

How many songs are on Virus?

Virus has 12 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.

Virus

Haken · 2020

55 min · 12 tracks · progressive metal

A complex tapestry of intricate rhythms and soaring melodies that explore the dark intersections of humanity and technology.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Prosthetic Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Invasion — This track captures the album's central theme of humanity's technological crisis through aggressive riffs and an urgent tempo, showcasing Haken's signature complexity.
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Messiah Complex I: Ivory Tower — The opening segment of the epic 'Messiah Complex' suite introduces a haunting atmosphere and sets the stage for the narrative exploration of hubris and downfall.
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Carousel — With its dynamic shifts and emotional vocals, this track stands out as a poignant reflection on the cyclical nature of existence and struggle amidst chaos.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

67 /100

Alpine

Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate compositions and thematic depth mark it as a strong entry in progressive metal, though it may not reach wider audiences.

What we noticed

Several tracks utilize contrasting sections, alternating between heavy riffs and melodic passages, which enhances the emotional impact of the music.

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: 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 resolution
wave-like pacing that evolves
immersive thematic storytelling experience
engaging complexity for attentive listeners
intense moments interspersed with calm

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward, catchy songs
seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Virus is noted for its thematic depth and solidified the band's reputation.
Themes: technological crisis· cyclical existence· hubris and downfall
Career context: Released on June 19, 2020, Virus is Haken's fifth studio album, following their acclaimed fourth record, Vector. By this point, the band had established themselves as prominent figures in the progressive metal scene, known for their technical prowess and ambitious concept albums.
Stylistic neighbors: Leprous· Between the Buried and Me· Symphony X