Kamelot - Haven

KAMELOT – Haven (CD)

I’ve enjoyed Kamelot’s previous releases due to their atmospheric and semi-symphonic elements, but was not too pleased with “Haven’s” cinematic soundtrack feel.

Personally, this 13-tracker has some interesting moments, but it seems like Kamelot is confused between their earlier sound and what is found here. Don’t get me wrong, their musicianship is superbly executed, but those several “Frozen” moments on the first half of the album was a let downer. “Haven” is sure to make a great soundtrack for “Frozen Part 2” (if Disney ever makes a sequel), as the music and symphonic arrangements are so in line with this animated movie.

The production on this album is very tight and clear, thanks to producer Sascha Paeth, and the entire band sounds quite brilliant here. Shit, if I did not think it was Kamelot, I would’ve believed it to be a symphony orchestra, as that’s how real 3/4s of the album sounds.

In my humble opinion, their last singer Khan was the best for Kamelot’s style of prog metal, not that current vocalist Tommy Karevik doesn’t get the job done, Khan was something unique within his style and range.

However, the vocals on this album are ok and does fit what Kamelot is doing, just the overall musical direction did not do much for me.

Highly recommended for fans of Cinematic prog metal and for fans of Rhapsody Of Fire and Blind Guardian. [Napalm Records] Sarjoo Devani