Haven
Dying Day
Reviewed by Doug Van Pelt
Another band from the high-quality quiver of R.E.X. Records - Haven. This is not the same Haven from the Phoenix area. These are "Joy-zee" boys, and they rock steady. Comparisons to Rage of Angels wouldn't be too far off, because these guys are so blasted aggressive musically. They really go after it, yet come across very melodic. It's hard to believe they've only been together 6-9 months... The production is good. The guitars are given lots of room to breathe in the mix and the vocals don't make you cringe. In fact, vocalist Kevin Ayers soars with passion, guts, and lots of range. He really lets loose with some wails! The band passes the "big test" by writing some darn good songs. The guitar lines are very original, heavy, melodic, and skilled (just listen to the Spanish guitar intro or leads in "Your Dying Day"). Whoa! How did Doug Mann do it? Out of nowhere (well, New Jersey) he pulls this incredible band that I had never heard of; and they totally shred. A band like this just doesn't happen everyday. (I'm freaking out!) I'm trying to think of the secular band they remind me of... It kinda sounds like the melodic side of Queensryche without the operatic vocals. I can't figure it out...They're not copping anybody's style, that's for sure. Okay...let's just say they're very HOT! I will have to rank this right up there with Holy Soldier as some of the hottest stuff released this year. Make buying this tape a high-priority, passionate goal of yours. Your ears will be grateful for a long, long time.