Kamelot are back with their brand new album Haven, which is their first to be released via Napalm Records, but it admittedly doesn’t bring anything new to the table and is a decidedly ‘safe’ release for the five-piece.
Although it is fair to say that Kamelot has found a formula that works for them and are currently running with it, it is rather disappointing that they haven’t tried anything new. With big symphonic sections, powerfully delivered vocals and triumphant solo sections, Haven basically just sounds like a rehash of the band’s past few albums and whilst it isn’t a dreadful listen, it’s difficult to fully engage with it as it doesn’t bring anything new to the table.
That’s not to say Haven is a write-off, because it does feature some excellent tracks. Insomnia helps to get things moving with its layered vocals and catchy synths, and End Of Innocence is an emotive piece that really gives frontman Tommy time to shine. However as a whole there’s not much variation between the songs, which also doesn’t work in the release’s favour.
If you like Kamelot, then there’s no doubt you’ll enjoy this. Just don’t go in expecting any surprises.
5/10
