
Orlando band Leaving Haven is bursting onto the the music scene, gathering fans and building their already large following. Formed in the summer of 2011 (officially), the band has taken off in a big way. Members Trevor Hastings (vocals) and Luke Melsenti (rhythm guitar) met in college in 2008, and the rest is history. Luke's brother Ben Melsenti (drums) moved to Orlando and they picked up old friends Michael Strippoli (lead guitar) and Madison Macko (bass) to form the five-member band.
Hastings and the Melsenti brothers decided on the band name Leaving Haven because all members are not from the Orlando area where they reside. "[They all] left their own safe 'haven' in order to pursue their dreams," states their Facebook page. Hastings hails from Edgewater, Maryland, the Melsentis from Shelton, Connecticut, and both Strippoli and Macko from Naples, FL.
Their debut album Bad Luck Glory, dropped on June 22nd, 2012. While the tracks are hard hitting, fans of other genres will appreciate and enjoy their sound. Hastings' voice is strong and smooth while the instrumentals are complex, combining perfectly. They write with passion and a certain depth to their lyrics that is hard to come by.
"Medicated," "Always Something," and "Underrated" have the most edge, both instrumentally, and with their message. "Medicated" has a haunting quality and sounds as if a vice is talking directly to its owner, leaving the listener with a chilly feeling. "Always Something" hits the low points of life when something is always wrong; "here we go again, I'm not surprised something could go wrong, it will that's implied." "Underrated" is a wake up call to doubters, as Hastings sings "the people who said I don't have what it takes, look at me now." A very, in your face, "I can do anything I want" song.
"Viper" has a great message of rising above. "I'll blow them all away and leave them eating out of my hand, I don't care what they say I'm swinging until I hit the ground." Stand up, it says. Show people what you're made of. Don't give up. Fight.
Possibly the best track is "Never Miss Me." The lyrics are great and the song gives off such an intrinsic human characteristic. No one wants to be not missed. It's about the desire to leave an impression on people, so that you will be remembered. It's also a call to live life to the fullest and don't hold anything back.
If you're looking for a great addition to your music library, check out Leaving Haven. They are rockers for sure, but don't let that stop you if rock isn't your thing. A band with a great sound and brilliant writing, they won't disappoint.
Find them online at LeavingHaven.com, and on Facebook. Catch a show and buy Bad Luck Glory, available on iTunes and on their site.
Stay tuned, Joonbug readers for an exclusive interview with the band, coming soon!





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