FAUNA

"Fauna" by Haken is a fairly successful album by the British sextet, which requires a large number of listens for digestion and internalization - but unfortunately does not meet the high standards of the golden years (2010-2013).

Stylistically, it is too eclectic, creating an arbitrary sequence of unrelated sections. The concept of the animal kingdom does not hold water, because it doesn't contain enough drama, continuity or relation to our reality. The music is undeniably well produced, virtuosic and even witty, but it is difficult to enjoy it emotionally, because of an excess of quick transitions and illogical musical decisions. It seems that Haken cannot allow themselves to stay put for 10 seconds. They just have to constantly re-transform themselves, even at the expense of "enjoying the moment".

In many ways, 'Fauna' represents a (temporary, hopefully) indecisiveness on the part of one of the most important progressive bands in the world today, whose best days are currently behind it. "The Mountain" is still their greatest achievement, no competition.

Favorite track: "Nightingale" (Classic Haken, by all means). Disappointment: "Sempiternal Beings" (A missed shot).