Now, THIS Is F***king Cool.

A few of you have asked me to react to Sleep Token, and low and behold they have released a brand new single called "Chokehold" this week. Once again, I am introduced to a new band. This feels like something that could crossover into the "mainstream" and be played on the radio (the actual radio!). It reminds me of a more interesting version of Imagine Dragons. Don't you think? Or am I wrong? Please, do tell.
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#sleeptoken #chokehold #musicreaction

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

I've just released the schedule for my January Zoom Chat Nights - if you fancy joining a group (they're small groups) and take part you can here: www.patreon.com/jushawk They're probably my favourite time of the month, they're a lot of fun.

[@papaedda]

Justin!!! Please do a video about rolling stone’s 200 greatest singer list!!!!

[@glengamble526]

“Maude-y Hawkins rides again…AGAIN!” 😂

[@nankerphelge3771]

Do you dig Slothrust? I can't get enough of the way they get so much sound from the three-piece arrangement, and I find their apparent hatred of fresh fruit, refreshing.

[@Evl_1]

Time for for HEILUNG

[@graffic13]

Justin needs to do a song with JessiJ.

[@jackiethetee]

Aunt Maude is a snappy dresser.

[@NinStardust]

Aunt Maude has definitely lost that jumper to the cavernous recesses of Justin’s seemingly infinite wardrobe! 😂😂😂

[@arceyes]

Aunt Maunde forgot her blouse

[@belladonna131]

I agree! It's Chrissmassy and Valentine's Dayie!

[@glengamble526]

‘Aunty Maudey rides again…AGAIN!’ 😂❤️🔥

[@Terri_MacKay]

I love the fact that Justin has been making the rounds, visiting and staying with family, since Christmas. I wonder who we'll be visiting next? And I think Aunt Maude is just going to have to accept that that sweater is Justin's now.

[@Kurenai666]

The best thing about Sleep Token is that they are so versatile. They are gaining traction finally, they deserve it too, cause they're a solid live band! Their new single "The Summoning" is really creative from a song writing point of view. I actually think you would enjoy that very very much from an "artsy" point of view.

[@MnemonicHeadTrip]

What are you even saying? Even when they make proper metal music, its always below several layers of sterile pop music. A lot of their tracks could be mistaken for an imagine dragons song. Is being able to make cheesy pop music outside of their occasional heaviness really being "versatile"?

[@notactuallytesco]

I must admit I've never heard of Sleep Token, but after watching this it seems imperative that I need to acquaint myself with more of their stuff. Lovely video as always!

[@j.r.v.p_14]

Their biggest hits are probably The Offering and Hypnosis. They’re quite a bit heavier than this song but still super accessible, which is what I love about sleep token. Also, their new track The Summoning is my favourite song by them period.

[@notactuallytesco]

@@j.r.v.p_14 Thanks mate, I'll add them to the list

[@SkylarTrahan]

@@notactuallytesco check out gods as well!

[@CatchxAxStarxForxMe]

Welcome, my friend ❤️🤘

[@bbyjscx]

Same

[@twall91]

This is it boys! This is the year SLEEP TOKEN takes their rightful place in the throne of all time greats! WORSHIP!!!

[@drummerjosh901]

Hundred percent. Been following them since I saw them at their inaugural Ritual in King's Cross. Definitely up there in my top 3 favourite bands of all time and I'm so happy to see them getting this big.

[@benallmark9671]

@@trembling3674 I'm going to have to agree with you bro.

[@chromesthesia]

@@benallmark9671 horrible?! How?

[@JustPlayingBass]

@@chromesthesia autotune

[@apollolinaire2607]

@@JustPlayingBass Absolutely none used. He sounds as pitch perfect live. But I'll assume you won't believe that either if you listen to them in that context.

[@intherapy1]

So cool they are getting this exposure. Wish nothing but the best for them. I knew that little underground band I found 5/6 years ago wouldn’t stay small forever and I’m here for the journey.

[@twall91]

Big facts dude

[@BEEPEE767]

Dude same!

[@JimboCruntz]

As soon as I heard Jaws I knew they’d be huge. Crazy to see how much they’ve grown over the past 2 years.

[@tarkenton3895]

Crazy seeing them go from the One EP to the level they're at now, but the music has always remained consistently original, consistently them which is just amazing.

[@FluffyThieves]

God, I love Sleep Token. I've seen a lot of metalheads who don't like them because they're "pop" and I just don't see the problem with that. Their metal songs are great, their pop songs are great, they're just such a fantastic band. Vessel is a fantastic singer and good lord the drummer.

[@tristanmestroni6724]

I saw them at a metal show and the crowd was just in a trance. Insecure people would say they aren't metal enough, but it's just good music at the end of the day.

[@Psychograce93]

''metalheads'' are probably just allergic to catchy songs

[@poragburagohain87]

Metal gatekeepers can’t digest the fact that something that’s not entirely metal is so good.

[@danieldv6171]

LOL, who are those metalheads? Must be some kiddies. I started listening to Metal in 1991, and holy crap, SLEEP TOKEN are ... I am at a loss of words. They could share the stage with TOOL or JESU. They are that good. Truly impressive. Their skills as musicians, and the emotions they Transport. It speaks for them, when many of their fans are people who experienced real tragedies, terrible losses, and find comfort in listening to this band's music.

[@WeLhOOse]

@@tristanmestroni6724 I’d say we’re hitting another era of metal and sleep token will be the forefront of it. I do think they’re slightly overrated but I do like their stuff

[@goofayoo]

There's more than a little of this that put me in mind of Leprous. Vocals have an Einar Solberg quality, and the musical drama is every bit as masterful.

[@jstKos]

Leprous was my first thought to.

[@d_exx]

I have been waiting for a sleep token reaction for SO LONG!!! They are probably my favourite band and they are amazing live too!

[@heyhellojesse]

I audibly gasped when I saw this on my newsfeed. I've been a huge fan of Sleep Token for years (in fact I was just saying I'd love to hear your thoughts on them today) and have just the utmost respect for you and your musical musings Justin - thanks for making my weekend!

[@JimboCruntz]

7:39 And this is why I love this band. I went off heavier metal because I’m sick of vocals and lyrics being almost an after thought. Having someone who can actually sing melodies adds so much.

[@noneofyourbusiness6326]

Have you heard of a band called Katatonia from Sweden? Soundwise they use many elements that are similar to Sleep token, aren't as dramatic but have a similar mood I think. They've been around for 30+ years now, & started as a doom/death/black metal hybrid but have evolved in toward a cinematic alternative metal/rock sound in later years. I recommend their Great Cold Distance & Fall of hearts albums as a starting point if you are interested, but personally I love all their material having been a fan since the 1990's.

[@thomaso05]

@@noneofyourbusiness6326listened to brave by them 500 times last year according to spotify hahah

[@Senegal604]

This was my best musical discovery of 2022 ❤ I really love this band, their music is so honest and relentless

[@FullMetalLuffy]

Stumbled into Sleep Token during the lockdown times, a steady comfort then and a steady comfort now. Echoing the other comments, check out the Summoning, and then go through all of their stuff. Truly a band for the ages

[@hunterdixon1694]

Seeing you enjoy one of my favorite bands was a delight!

[@sunsetalbell78]

Finally you get to doing a Sleep Token track!! Yes!!!!! These guys are immense... Love your work. Keep it up

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks!

[@Nicolasmondragon707]

Justin Fucking Hawkins Rides Againnnn 🎸🕺🏽🎶🎶🎶

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

That's me!

[@Nicolasmondragon707]

@@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain Living Legend ✊🏽

[@myauramusic]

*"Relentless & Brilliant sounds. I love this already." - Justin Hawkins 2023* Yes my friend, welcome to Sleep Token Please continue to explore and experience their cataloge

[@chameleon-dream-band-official]

Think it's ST year to become huge. Their other new track The Summoning is even better 🤘

[@tomratcliffe1946]

So psyched you’ve covered this. This band tick pretty much every box for me and they continue to evolve and surprise.

[@sinnafain4936]

You can listen to any of Sleep Tokens music and be blown away at how different each is. Great band and a great band to see live.

[@steph_ssdd]

I am pleasantly surprised after checking a few songs from this band! Thanks Jussy and the folks who recommended them 😘

[@tiesiognu]

I would be really interested in hearing Justin's take on The Summoning, as it's so much different from Chokehold. Eitherway, happy to see ST falling under your radar, Justin!!

[@dancinlemur]

Sleep token may have got themself a new listener.. i feel like if people love these guys they should give Karnivool a try, massively underrated band imo!

[@eugenepalmer2623]

You are very knowledgeable I enjoy you breaking things down and talking actual music and what not. It's refreshing

[@hawi8557]

Just saw them live in germany yesterday, and its so impressive how their songs are even better in a live setting, the atmosphere was just different

[@lezzliea]

People are gonna be well pissed-off when they find out it's Westlife, trying, yet another, comeback🤣🤣🤣

[@amvibes9633]

This band does so many different things. Hearing one song is not enough to "know" Sleep Token. They have such such an amazing range of sound and feelings. My favourite band atm

[@CYATBAI]

You HAVE to listen to their latest single “The Summoning”.

[@bcm5pointer]

Omg ST FINALLY caught your ear! Excited to hear your thoughts. Worship.

[@ArtisanCyanide]

I saw them just yesterday as support act for Architects after being a fan for quite some time and they are just bloody brilliant. Too bad most of the crowd didn’t know them apparently. Wishing them all the success they deserve!

[@BVRDSTR]

ALL 👍👍thxs for riding again Justin From Prescott AZ

[@phoenixgirl70]

I love the variety of music covered on this channel! Looking forward to a great new year with Justin and the prrroducer. This is very cool!

[@gammaknife922]

Imagine St Justin of Hawkins being your extended family…of course, he could borrow my cardy anytime

[@mikaashton2152]

Love the show, love how you are always showing new music. Not to many people do that these days. Great stuff!!

[@RivudoesStuff]

You absolutley must react to their newest single The Summoning. Its got some funky vibes

[@britta.photography]

those drum simulations and Aunt Maud's jumper made my day 😂😂😂

[@mattp302]

Thank you Justin, please do more from Sleep Token, they have such a variety of songs which makes them sure interesting. As an average listener I also really enjoy hearing a more technical review of them like this video provides.

[@Greg-wh7bi]

Just found your channel through sleep token and I’m already hooked on your personality… much love definitely subscribing,,, thanks

[@traceyhook6440]

Not for me.. but Sleep Token made me think of Love Token by Brian May off the Back to the Light album! Played it. Made me smile. Brought back some nice memories 😊

[@TheGreenGoblinYT]

PLEASE do Coheed and Cambria!! They came on the scene just as The Darkness was (at least in the US). They're my favorite band but not as popular as both of you two should be.

[@zigzag2370]

Crazy that they're gaining traction I just learned about the band like two weeks ago and they're fucking awesome

[@maddhatter919]

Yesss I was waiting for this inevitable episode. ST is amazing

[@jackiep8385]

"Hi, Aunt Maud, I'm here for a visit. Btw, can I borrow your cardigan? It's for a thing"

[@shri081]

So pumped the Purdie shuffle got a mention here….talk about iconic elements of music history….the Rosanna half time shuffle from Jeff Porcaro of the band Toto is another variant that immediately springs to mind…. It’s such an ever present thing these days….and I’m so glad you highlighted the roots to that….. Also stoked that Sleep Token has made its way to your channel…

[@Ma93nta174]

Justin - I was blown away the first time I saw them at download in 2018. Nazareth was the track that really took my attention this day, as well as the outrageously technical abilty of ALL the musicians. Certainly the most outstanding 👏 band and mysterious band to appear in a long time. Maybe even since time immemorial in this country at least. I had never thought of Purdie influence until you mentioned it. But love Purdie. And Purdie seem just such a fun loving guy with an infectious enthusiasm for what he does. If I was to try and sum up Sleep Token it would be tricky but they sound like a soulful synth Tool and look like they were conceived in one of Slipknots ancient vaults with a generous helping of Meshuggah for good measure. Brilliant and innovative music 🎶 and I'm planning to see them again this month, travel permitting. Thanks for reviewing them. Still hoping to see the Darkness soon after 2 failed attempts - first due to illness 2nd due to illness (I had covid). Hopefully 3rd time lucky.... rock on dude!

[@luke-overthrone]

So glad you checked these guys out! Now check out their other single “the summoning” Slightly heavier then this, another huge sounding chorus, and the last 3rd of the song will completely catch you off guard 😂

[@HeavyNebula]

Thank you Justin!!! That was hilariously great as always. Sleep Token deserves the spotlight 🙏

[@hardypahardypa1]

Justin, merci for this. i discovered them because of your channel and I am now addicted to the band!!!

[@keithpratt1849]

Thank you for turning us all in n to this. Also thank you for appreciating the 🥁 drum work. My passion along with creating dynamic music. Rock on music Brethren.

[@nthnhbsn1909]

Sleep Token are one of the best bands around at the moment. Vessel is a phenomenal singer.

[@GearAddict]

you had me at purdie shuffle! brilliantly great insight, Justin. Sleep Token is taking over!

[@tmoller2432]

Long time fan of the J Hawk. Stood next to him in the queue for Steel Panther in London years ago where he then got up and played with them, then saw him play with Spinal Tap not long after at Wembley, where I was sat next to Bill Bailey the whole night. You never know when you're going to bump into The Hawk.

[@Liofa73]

What is a Sleep Token? Something you get at a Japanese capsule hotel?

[@SolarCrunch]

The Summoning is hiiiighly recommended, Justin 💯

[@hereticwargaming4843]

Seen them a fair few times last year. Headlining the 2nd stage at Bloodstock was sublime. Seeing a load of music fans who’re into grunty mcshunty have their soul spoken to was incredible

[@Pods4all]

Please Look at their new single that also dropped called the summoning!!!!! is so good and you will love it!

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thank you!

[@fiendishghoul4068]

Justin…it reminds me an awful lot of ZEAL AND ARDOR, check them out….their style is something like ‘gospel meets metal’

[@adamsmithhobbs4702]

You should watch The Stranglers live at battersea Park in 78 for a retro reaction

[@moseygosey]

I was looking to see if you'd done any reactions to Sleep Token the other day! Glad to see you found them. DEFINITELY check out The Summoning, their other new single, as well.

[@MadailinBurnhope]

I love Sleep Token, glad you're covering them

[@Omertahun]

Justin is getting excited over a song and dishes out a whole dissertation about it on the fly. I love that channel, when Justins sleepy eyes fill up with life

[@JamesFrederickSpake]

Mr Hawkins, your KZbin series has me smitten! I have somehow found myself listening to you everyday. How much fun! I have a couple musical suggestions that I’d really like to hear your opinion on sometime; The Garden and The Armed. I will send vids at you request. I hope you get this! Thank you in advance, Mr Hawkins!

[@scottnixon9236]

Following, Sleep Token for a few years now. I honestly think this will be the year they break out. Their is is nothing like them anywhere. The fanbase is quite amusing with the whole worship/cult like depicting rants. Composition and writing is off the chart. Hopefully the confusion of the Shakespeare Rants don't slow down their rocketing up the charts. I would say WORSHIP but I think it gets said enough lol. Cheers and Happy New Year.

[@benmitchell3406]

I found this band the other day. I'm so happy with the amount of support they are getting

[@maxharris9278]

So glad you’ve discovered Sleep Token! Definitely react to The Summoning PLEASE! ❤

[@ndnd2023]

The only man to describe Vessel's vicals as a 'reach-around'.

[@CacoMetal_JackandRoll]

You need a good pair of headphones to here this and appreciate the full experience. Great band

[@BDFsecret]

Hey Justin I really think you should cover Holding Absence in your next episode. They're part of the same scene as Sleep Token.

[@BlayneyPS]

Holding Absence are my "saw them before they were famous" band... just me and about 10 other people in Clwb Ifor Bach.

[@howardhavardramberg333]

The Summoning is even better! Worship 🗿

[@peterblissett9076]

Sorry Justin , I always thought that The Darkness was a joke band but you have blown me away with your musical knowledge and expertise , i sincerely apologise , LOVE your reviews

[@revhappymv]

Justin. Please check out Bloodywood. Indian folk metal. Very cool stuff!

[@ditavee]

I just had a listen - they are amazing. Thank you!

[@Ethan-Entah]

The swell at the very beginning of the song makes me think of What I've Done, so even tho I can tell the 2 apart, everytime this comes on I have to sing the chorus of What I've Done.

[@etoineschrdlu9382]

I love the ever changing Holiday Season guitars.

[@skast3r]

Love this. I got in to Sleep Token last year. Incredible stuff. Rarely do you find a band that captures such an amazing, haunting atmosphere on a track while also making you want to get in the pit. Super melodic, bluesy (love the Rag 'n' Bone Man ref- also a bit of Sam Smith, Dustin Kensrue, and Charlie Simpson in there), and then just some heavy, prog breakdowns. Brilliant. Shoutout to Aunt Maud!

[@scottw3780]

Interesting, I love this channel there’s a few bands that are now frequent listens because of Justin

[@edgarnotley5062]

i could watch justin hawkins ride all day

[@hanselmansell7555]

A reach around!!! That's it, I'm dead... 🤣😅🤣

[@sah-win]

Besides the cardigan, the “reach around” snip was the highlight for me!

[@pankace3296]

Hell yeah, Sleep Token fucking SLAPS. I can't wait to see how far they go. Brilliant musicians and one of the best vocalists I've ever heard in any genre.

[@00CooG00]

What vessel and Capaldi does that sounds so similar is accentuate the diphthongs. The double vowel sound, like aaoo, oouu aaee and so on.

[@KaldDodeGitarist]

I fucking love this band

[@loopinnerthe]

If you really do have an auntie Maud and she has such incredible dress sense, your life must be complete. And she provides you with mince pie bites. And Uncle Jim has a spare guitar. I bet you had a go in their foot spa. Living the dream man. Imagine dragons likeness yes. Not sure what the song was about really.

[@TwoandaHater]

Check out Plini (instrumental guitar) and Leprous (insane vocals & drums).

[@reubenw815]

im so glad you've checked them out!!!

[@Jwet1100]

I learned about them in 2019 and have been a fan ever since! Worship!

[@dingk0ng]

You gotta check out Zeal & Ardor

[@hvacjay4037]

Cardigan sweater with no shirt underneath and a chain around the neck. Now that's rock and roll.

[@Vonbeardingham]

Finally someone who appreciates the majesty that is Stan Bush’s “the touch” 💪🏼💪🏼

[@Thumpdizzle]

hahahah "you got the touch!!!! you got the powerrrrrrrrrr!@!!!! yeeeeeeaaaaaaa!!!!"

[@TheOriginalHairyDave]

Seeing as this appears to be very much up your straße, Karnivool might just be your thing too. "All It Takes" is very similar but dials the synths back in favour of some bonkers guitar work.

[@aws08barbatos]

I also recommend the summoning and the track of sundowning which is a piece called the offering. This band has in the past past year become one of my favorite bands -Worship

[@rhiannongaladrieldonner1100]

I've never heard a Sleep Token song I didn't like. They've been my favorite band for almost two years now. Worship.

[@antonharmacinski276]

As a collector of Transformers I totally love you went right to The Touch which was made for the original 1986 animated movie.

[@frostfang1]

I love you're dance to it. And yes I love to dance to them. Sometimes a Waltz and more often tribal fusion belly dance. I think you'd be amused and entertained by Vessels dancing during his live performances. And jumps.

[@COREcasual]

Omg... hearing you talk about the touch by Stan Bush made me so happy

[@QuentinKarentino]

The summoning is a musttttt Mr Hawkins

[@JamieSlays]

Just subscribed. Love your channel Justin

[@CinemaPuree]

hahaha love that you're referencing Stan Bush! He's on my 80's montage music playlist!

[@frostpat3759]

I also use this to find new music! Thanks for the awesome positive good times!

[@mickjager]

You should definately also check out The Summoning. The song is quite different from this one and shows how versatile they are!

[@traviscue2099]

"Pop writing" is a funny thing, all musicians can write pop.. They just typically choose not to, but they will let elements of it into their music. Most good musicians can write good pop, it's not challanging. But you do need some of it in every genre, since its a hook/catchy melody/a lyric line.