Sleep Token's "Even In Arcadia" Promises to Be a Masterpiece

After the worldwide success and recognition of their breakout album “Take Me Back To Eden” (TMBTE), Sleep Token has cemented themselves in the metal scene. “TMBTE” is one of my favorite albums of all time, and it was going to be hard to follow-up an album of that caliber.

Sleep Token have become one of the most recognized and beloved bands in metal today. After the worldwide success and recognition of their breakout album 'Take Me Back To Eden' (TMBTE), the band is continuing to break boundaries and experiment with sound on their new album, 'Even In Arcadia.'

TMBTE is one of my favorite albums of all time, and it was going to be hard to follow-up an album of that caliber. When the band announced new music in its usual cryptic fashion on social media, posting a short video with one word "Prepare," I was so excited and listened to their previous music non-stop for two weeks. TMBTE was a piece of music I connected with on such a deep level and an album that reflected how I felt, so I knew it was going to be hard to top. I fell in love with the mystery and intrigue surrounding the band, with their intricately designed masks keeping their identities a secret from fans. This mixed with their unique style of music and the constant mention of "gods" and beings beyond comprehension in their music creates a spiritual experience for fans.

Even In Arcadia introduces unique, experimental sounds that transcend music. "Emergence," the first single released for the album is a prime example by starting with soft and angelic vocals from lead singer Vessel. The song picks up pace quickly and introduces heavy drums and guitar into the mix of almost rapping from Vessel, then slows down to heavenly vocals. The difference and combination of the tempos in different parts of the song along with the beautiful saxophone solo to end the track are why it’s one of my favorites on the album.

The intro track to the album, "Look To Windward," is another one of my favorites. The song starts with a slow synth beat, increasing in pace as it crescendos into a drop into heavy metal and screams from Vessel. The song then switches styles again, with Vessel rapping following the drop, then goes into stunning falsetto vocals and a piano combination coupled with more heavy drums. The song is a rollercoaster of emotion and a beautiful mosaic of different styles and elements mashed into one.

My favorite track on the album is the title track "Even In Arcadia." It starts off with an eerie opening of what seems to be chimes and nature sounds which were used in a teaser for the album. Vessel took my breath away with stunning vocals in a stunning soul music style verse. The track again uses piano, which pairs exquisitely with the vocals and emotional lyrics. It ended with the introduction of a heart-touching violin and slow beat; the song left me wanting so much more. Without a doubt, it is now one of my favorite songs from the band.

The album ends with a bang, as the closing track "Infinite Baths" encapsulates the band's unique sound perfectly. It began with a simple keyboard beat and almost pop-like vocals, tying into an ethereal chorus. Its emotional lyrics start as the drums pick up and tempo slows before picking up pace again leading into a massive breakdown. Vessel shows his insane vocal range, going from beautiful R&B style vocals in the chorus to guttural and raspy screams as drummer, II, also shows off his immense talent with a complicated solo to end the song. It is a heavy, head-banging end to an emotional and beautiful album.

Although Even In Arcadia is an amazing representation of the band and continues to break boundaries in music, it still can’t top TMBTE. The album, however, is still one of my favorites and is a perfect follow up. It is a spiritual experience that needs to be heard to fully understand the depth of emotion and creativity that flows through the album. One thing for certain is that Sleep Token are only getting started and already cementing themselves as one of the best bands on the planet. I can’t wait to see where the band takes fans next.