In 1996 Indie Punk/Hardcore label Revelation Records released the first (self titled) Will Haven EP that took the Hardcore scene by storm. The Sacramento five piece then continued to have a successful reign building a firm imprint in the scene along side other heavyweights such as Earth Crisis, Strife, Integrity and Snapcase. After a 12 year stint of three albums and numerous EP's Will Haven recently split with lead singer Grady Avenell, which wasn't the first time. Previously the band had split and the remaining members became Ghostride. This short lived band then rejoined with Avenell to give Will Haven another go. Once again he left the band due to family commitments, however instead of disbursing, the band decided to replace their singer with long term friend Jeff Jaworski and embark on a new adventure. A new album was written, released and well received and the band is now currently touring the UK with The Miramar Disaster.
Watching Will Haven tonight first and foremost promoters had made a terrible mistake in choice of venue. Five or more years ago when the band peaked with their flawless 'Carp Diem' album, the London Academy would have been a perfect venue. Now starting this new chapter a smaller venue would have been a more sensible for the 250-300 dedicated fans who had turned up to watch them. This didn't put the band off one bit they still showed their sheer drive and passion to excite their audience as they took the stage a ripped it up as though they were in a small basement in their hometown of Sacramento. Newest member Jeff Jaworski was definitely as good as Avenell which proved fact when playing old songs like 'Stick up Kid' from the bands El Diablo record and other such classics from WHVN and Carp Diem.
Will Haven are still a great band and definitely have what it takes to be greater, lets just hope the boys return to the London soon and play a small sell out venue.
