I find it remarkable that, at least as far as studio albums (and thus wider recognition) goes, Haken are entirely a product of this decade. Aquarius, their first album, came out in 2010. Now 8 years later, the arrival of album number 5 is on horizon, and it feels like a significant release in the progressive music world for this year, with plenty of anticipation for it, as this thread is currently demonstrating. Haken are certainly a contender to be among the defining prog bands of this decade, the way that Porcupine Tree defined the first decade of this 21st century.
Mike Portnoy could not have said it better.
MP would have thrown in something like "so proud of my boys" or something else that sounds like he thinks he's their mentor or they're some kind of students of his.
My first thought of MPs Vector post the other day was "man the dudes from Haken must be pissed that he's spoiling stuff and reveals information about the album before the band themselves did". Plus, he still managed to make the post about himself by mentioning Opus Maximus and advertising his own band. Man I don't know why he always has to do things like that.
That being said, I totally agree with Roe. Regarding quality, Haken are already among the greats like Steven, Neal or even Dream Theater for me.
Concerning the setlist: I remember talking to Richard about Earthlings right after the EP came out. He said that the band thought it wouldn't work so well in a live concert. I personally agree. And I feel similar about Bound By Gravity.