Portnoy in Haken hunt

Haken have streamed their track Crystallised from upcoming EP Restoration – and invited fans to identify Mike Portnoy’s contribution in order to win a merch bundle.

The 19-minute epic can be heard now, and will be released on October 27 via InsideOut.

Guitarist Charlie Griffiths says: “We’d like you to listen to Crystallised and answer two questions about it. The great Mike Portnoy makes a guest appearance – so the first question is, can you identify what Mike’s playing, and when he plays it. Question two is: when Mike recorded his part, which legendary English drummer did he mention? Have a guess.”

The contest closes on Thursday. Haken tour the UK with Leprous and Maschine, starting the same day:

Oct 23: London Garage

Oct 24: Leamington Spa Assembly

Oct 26: Bristol Fleece

Oct 27: Bilston Robin 2

Oct 29: Dublin Village

Oct 30: Liverpool O2 Academy 2

Oct 31: Manchester Club Academy

Nov 01: Edinburgh Liquid Room

Nov 02: York Duchess

Not only is one-time online news editor Martin an established rock journalist and drummer, but he’s also penned several books on music history, including SAHB Story: The Tale of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, a band he once managed, and the best-selling Apollo Memories about the history of the legendary and infamous Glasgow Apollo. Martin has written for Classic Rock and Prog and at one time had written more articles for Louder than anyone else (we think he's second now). He’s appeared on TV and when not delving intro all things music, can be found travelling along the UK’s vast canal network.