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In listening to Kamelot’s 11th full-length album Haven I can say one thing without question; this is a great band. Their signature sounds of Symphonic Power Metal are intact with wonderful keyboard melodies, double-kick drums and excellent riffs. I honestly kept thinking about The Black Halo as I was listening to this. Before you jump to conclusions Haven is not on the same level as The Black Halo but, in all honesty, what album is? Even singer Tommy Karevik is in on the emulation as he tries to deliver his lines like the sadly departed Khan would have. Karevik’s no slouch but he’s also no Khan and let’s face it; we’re never again going to get an "Abandoned" from this band. Still, I didn’t come here to damn Haven with faint praise and it is a first-rate album with great, catchy tracks like "Fallen Star," "Veil of Elysium" and "Liar Liar (Wasteland Monarchy)." If it weren’t for the existence of The Black Halo I think we’d all be far more impressed but no matter how good it is, Haven will always be judged against its amazing predecessor.

With albums like Poetry for the Poisoned and Silverthorn behind them I think Kamelot have regained their footing and it just so happens to be on the same ground as The Black Halo, Epica and The Fourth Legacy. Khan fans may not be able to let go of the past but every fan of Symphonic Power Metal that can accept the march of time is going to want to grab a copy of Haven as it is worth every penny.