There’s no denying that masked four-piece Sleep Token have taken the rock world by storm. Since their inception in 2016, the anonymous ensemble have taken influence from the world of rock, pop, indie/alt and djent to create something that truly feels unique and somewhat otherworldly.
Rumours of who exactly makes up the band continue to swirl, making them one of the most talked-about acts from the heavy music sphere in recent times – and this month, Welsh audiences can indulge yourself in the cult of Sleep Token, should they wish, as they hit the Utilita Arena in Cardiff. Can’t wait until then? Then check out five of their best songs, as compiled by Chris Andrews.
1. Euclid
Strangely, the final track on their latest album, 2023’s Take Me Back To Eden, is one of its best – and perfectly demonstrates what Sleep Token are all about. A simple piano intro tells a tale of heartbreak that slowly develops into a full-on emo-alt-rock anthem as the band’s vocalist, known only as Vessel, asks, “Do you remember me, when the rain gathers…”
2. The Love You Want
This choice comes from the band’s second full album, 2021’s This Place Will Become Your Tomb. A brooding ballad is given an alt-pop overhaul, The Love You Want showcases this project at its most accessible. As much as Sleep Token invariably put a dark swing on things, one could easily picture a group like Imagine Dragons turning in a track like this – indicative of the ease with which this band crosses genres.
3. The Summoning
The track that’s right at the top of their list on Spotify, The Summoning has a bludgeoning opening riff that sounds like Meshuggah playing Deftones, but it’s so much more than that. A soaring vocal chorus that deteriorates into a metalcore breakdown, which itself breaks down into a Pink Floyd-style solo, The Summoning has it all and that’s why it takes pride of place as the ultimate Sleep Token song.
4. The Night Does Not Belong To God
An ode to anyone who’s ever been in love. As an epic riff is layered with rich keyboard work, Vessel explains how the cover of dark is heaven to them and their chosen one, as they get to spend the nights together, and how he would move heaven and earth if these were taken away. Sleep Token lyrics are little bits of perfect poetry as it is, but even by their own standards, this is deep.
5. The Offering
About as straight-up, in terms of song arrangement, as Sleep Token go. More dirt-heavy nu-metal style riffs are sandwiched between heartachingly beautiful vocals and some drum acrobatics, complete with a closing riff that hammers home the point. The Offering will certainly get the moshpit moving in Cardiff this month – and anywhere else they play it.
Sleep Token, Utilita Arena Cardiff, Sat 30 Nov.
Tickets: £47.50. Info: here
words CHRIS ANDREWS
