Taken

Taken's output rejects forceful sonic experiments drawn from alternative metal and punk sources, instead merging robust melodies with fervent grooves to produce a singular alloy of hardcore drive and melodic metal traits. The band assembled in 1997 within Orange County, CA, uniting Ray Harkins on vocals with guitarists Chad Tafolla and Dan Baird, bassist Nick Beard, and drummer Troy Burn. After an extended period of rehearsals and performances at regional venues, the five members booked studio time to cut their opening demo. Issued near the close of 1998, that recording sold through its limited run in short order and generated substantial interest. In 1999, once the single "The Haven" had been tracked as their second studio effort, Taken finalized an agreement with Goodfellow Records. Finding Solace in Dissension, the first release under the new deal, reached stores in 2000 and preceded the group's inaugural coast-to-coast U.S. tour. The following year the musicians returned to the studio to lay down their debut full-length, And They Slept.