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13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Adopted 'mancs' sweeping debut. verdict success, 8 Mar 2002
By A Customer
Haven's relocation to the north, had a little something to do with support (or lack thereof) for upcoming bands (see also Muse), the move seems to have paid off dividends, one of ten bands picked as the future of "Guitar Britain". Track 1 'Beautiful Thing' is a subtle opener showcasing what is to come on an effective debut for the cornish band. From the same sound school as peers Travis, Embrace, Coldplay and Starsailor, Haven perform the kind of touching ballads of heartbreak and confusion but never really dwell in continued wall staring misery. 'Say Something', if listened to in the wrong mood, is a near tear-inducing recounting of a failing relationship. 'Out Of Reach' is, put simply, fantastic. A moving combination of sweeping guitars and vocals with a typically evocative chorus and is probably the album's standout track imbued with a dark sense of confidence. 'Let It Live' is another immediate track with killer riffs and hooks guaranteed to have you singing a little too loudly on the bus or train to work. Johnny Marr's involvement in the production on this album, has to an extent overshadowed the groups achievements which in essence is 'another classic rock band pedalling the notion of 'classic' songwriting.' There is an edge to Haven's songwriting for the most part but ultimately the record is set on one theme and whilst reminiscent of the sturdy, sentiment and atmospherics of bands like U2, you can't help but crave the band to step away from the safe ground and open up their sound a little more. Much of whether this offering appeals to the listener depends on Gary Briggs' pleading, evocative vocals, whilst these are his band's most obvious weapon they may not be to all tastes. Like Starsailor' James Walsh, his falsetto voice is beautiful and instantly recognizable, but can get a little tiring amongst the epic scales. Effectively this is a great start for a promsing band who on this example seem destined for greater things.
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