Sleep Token – ‘Take Me Back to Eden’ [Album Review]

Now on their third record, Sleep Token are rapidly increasing in popularity, and the mysticism of this collective just adds to the intrigue percolating in their growing fanbase. The band’s whole persona is that of pantomime depicting a cult (of sorts) who worship the almighty deity known as ‘Sleep’ and are this entity’s mortal representations on Earth. This performance makes for some incredible, mesmerizing and captivating live shows, which are complimented by some exceptional songwriting. Some acts will create a concept album here and there, but Sleep Token have created their own complex narrative that is not confined to a singular record.

Take Me Back to Eden (order/stream it here) is the third instalment in the group’s ongoing story and builds on the last release, This Place Will Become Your Tomb, enhancing the elements of that record whilst ensuring there is still something new to enjoy.

Opening this next ‘ritual’ is “Chokehold.” A slow build into vocalist Vessel’s powerful lyrics instantly commands the listener to take notice. A slow but bass-heavy tune that holds a melancholy beauty to it. If this was a new devotee’s first introduction to Sleep Token, it will do its job of pulling them in with its captivating nature. “The Summoning” is the perfect summarisation of who Sleep Token are. The song has extremely heavy moments akin to some of the most brutal death metal, but juxtaposed with this are periods of levity through slower, more melodic sections. If I ever needed to describe Sleep Token in one word to someone, I would simply state: “The Summoning” (okay, that’s technically two words, but now we’re getting into semantics).

“Aqua Regia” is yet another prime example of what makes Sleep Token so unique; the tune has a hypnotic melody backing Vessel’s thought-provoking lyrics. The use of the piano throughout this track adds further dimensions to an already multi-tonal song that is simply captivating. Although Take Me Back to Eden has a clear identity throughout, there are still some exceptions to the dark and gothic nature of the majority of the record. “Are You Really Okay?” And “The Apparition” are fine examples of this. They are partially acoustic and hold a more calming vibe, all while maintaining the identity of the overall record. That said, the latter does build into a more extravagant experience toward its conclusion.

The concluding track, “Euclid,” and its predecessor, “Take Me Back to Eden,” close the record strongly, ensuring that the quality is high throughout and after the final note dies down, you will be left contemplating everything and nothing all at once. This, though, is the draw of Sleep Token. Going in for some easy listening or levitating a positive mood is impossible. Every moment of this album requires your attention and will elicit a range of emotions, sometimes even conflicting ones, simultaneously. Take Me Back to Eden is a commitment, and that is exactly what I interpret Sleep Token’s intentions for this record to be!

Like the group’s back catalogue, this album will not be for everyone. In fact, some may consider it to be pretentious. That said, if you are someone that is willing to allow music to really enter your psyche, you may find out something about yourself you were unaware of, an epiphany if you will. Take a chance, listen to Sleep Token and become a believer!

Take Me Back to Eden Track Listing:

1. Chokehold
2. The Summoning
3. Granite
4. Aqua Regia
5. Vore
6. Ascensionism
7. Are You Really Okay?
8. The Apparition
9. DYWTYLM
10. Rain
11. Take Me Back to Eden
12. Euclid

Run Time: 01:03:31
Release Date: May 19, 2023
Record Label: Spinefarm Records