TAKEN

**TAKEN** is a band that formed in 1997 in Orange County, California, by a group of friends including Chad Tafolla and Dan Baird, who initially played punk before shifting toward a more hardcore and metalcore sound. Their music combines elements of melodic hardcore, progressive metal, and post-hardcore, often compared to bands like Thrice. The band was active until 2004 and is known for their technical and melodic approach to heavy music. Members of TAKEN have gone on to play in other notable bands, such as Circa Survive and Mikoto. After a period of inactivity, TAKEN reformed and released new material, including the 2018 EP "With Regard To," the theme of which focuses on personal struggles facing the vocalist’s wife’s battle with cancer.

More recently, TAKEN released the EP *Songs For Ava* in 2024, featuring tracks like "i'm stuck in" and "Imposter Syndrome," showcasing their ongoing evolution while maintaining their core melodic and emotional intensity. The band has continued to perform live internationally, supported by producer Beau Burchell, known for working with Moose Blood and Saosin.