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Sleep Token

EuropeUnited KingdomProgressive RockAlternative Metal
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Band Timeline

2016

Formation and Debut Release

Sleep Token formed in London, England, in 2016, quickly gaining attention with their unique blend of rock, metal, and indie elements combined with an anonymous masked persona. They introduced themselves to the world with their first single 'Thread the Needle' in September 2016. This was followed by their debut self-released EP titled 'One' in December 2016, which included three tracks plus alternative piano arrangements showcasing the band's dynamic sound and emotional depth.
2017

Signing with Basick Records and Second EP Release

In 2017, Sleep Token signed with independent label Basick Records. Early in the year, they released a cover of OutKast's hit 'Hey Ya!' On July 2017, Sleep Token released their second EP titled 'Two', supported by singles 'Calcutta' and 'Nazareth'. This release further exhibited their genre-blending style, mixing heavy technical metal with expansive indie soundscapes. During this period, the band started performing live more frequently, including support slots for artists like Motorpsycho and Perturbator, building their live reputation.
2018

Rising Live Presence and Singles Release

Throughout 2018, Sleep Token expanded their live presence by supporting bands such as Loathe and appearing at festivals including Camden Rocks. They performed at BBC Radio 1's Maida Vale Studios, marking an important media spotlight. The band also released singles 'Jaws' and 'The Way That You Were', both of which later were issued together on vinyl. Their first headline show took place at St Pancras Old Church, selling out rapidly, demonstrating the growing fanbase and support for their unique musical and theatrical presentation.
2019

Signing with Spinefarm Records and Debut Album 'Sundowning'

In 2019, Sleep Token signed with the Universal Music subsidiary Spinefarm Records and announced their debut full-length album, 'Sundowning', released in November. They promoted the album with singles like 'The Night Does Not Belong to God', releasing tracks biweekly leading up to the full launch. The album received positive critical acclaim for its unique blend of dark moods and slow-burning intensity. Following the album release, the band conducted their first headline shows in London and Manchester, then embarked on their first North American tour supporting Issues, alongside Polyphia and rapper Lil Aaron, marking their growing international profile.
2020

Pandemic Impact and Continued Releases

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted Sleep Token’s 2020 touring plans, leading to cancellations of major shows including Knotfest Japan and Download Festival. Despite live performance setbacks, the band maintained activity by releasing an expanded edition of 'Sundowning' with additional songs. The global pause on touring forced the band to focus on recorded output and digital engagement, maintaining momentum and visibility amid unprecedented challenges for the music industry.
2021

Second Album: 'This Place Will Become Your Tomb' and Chart Success

Sleep Token released their sophomore album, 'This Place Will Become Your Tomb', in September 2021. The album marked their first entry into the UK Top 40 Albums Chart and achieved number 13 on the Scottish Albums Chart, signaling a new level of commercial success. This release further cemented their signature blend of atmospheric, heavy, and emotional music, engaging a wider audience. Singles from this album contributed to the band’s rising prominence in the contemporary rock and metal scenes.
2023

Third Album: 'Take Me Back to Eden' and Wider Recognition

In May 2023, Sleep Token released their third studio album, 'Take Me Back to Eden'. The album debuted at number three on the UK Albums Chart and number 16 on the US Billboard 200, marking the band's highest charting positions to date and significant recognition in major markets. The single 'The Summoning' gained notable chart presence on genre and format-specific charts in both the UK and the US, reflecting the group's expanding fanbase and influence.
2025

Fourth Album: 'Even in Arcadia' and Commercial Breakthrough

May 2025 saw the release of Sleep Token's fourth album, 'Even in Arcadia', through RCA Records. This album achieved major commercial success, debuting at number one on the UK Albums Chart. The lead single 'Emergence' became their first UK Top 20 single and also appeared on the US Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 57. Another single, 'Caramel', went on to become their first top 10 hit in the UK and a top 40 hit in the US, marking a significant breakthrough in mainstream visibility and audience reach for the band.

Albums

sleep-token_1st_album
Sundowning
16 tracks
2019
sleep-token_2nd_album
This Place Will Become Your Tomb
12 tracks
2021
sleep-token_3rd_album
Take Me Back to Eden
12 tracks
2023
sleep-token_4th_album
Even in Arcadia
7 tracks
2025
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Vessel

N/A

Bass

Vessel

N/A

Keyboard

II

N/A

Percussion

Vessel

N/A

Lead vocals

Vessel

N/A

Guitar

II

N/A

Drums (drum set)

Story of Sleep Token

Sleep Token, the enigmatic London-based alternative metal band, emerged onto the scene in 2016 shrouded in mystery, their members` identities concealed behind masks. Their journey began with the self-released debut EP, One, quickly followed by Two in 2017 after signing with Basick Records. This early success propelled them to Spinefarm Records, where they unleashed their critically acclaimed debut full-length album, Sundowning, in 2019. The band continued their ascent with the release of their second album, This Place Will Become Your Tomb, in 2021, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the alternative metal world. Take Me Back to Eden, their third studio album, dropped in May 2023, showcasing their evolution and continued creative drive. Already looking ahead, Sleep Token have announced a fourth album, Even in Arcadia, slated for release in May 2025 via RCA Records.

Early Days (2016-2019):

The bands debut single, "Thread the Needle," premiered in September 2016, setting the stage for the release of their *One* EP in December of the same year. This initial release included bonus piano arrangements, showcasing a depth beyond their signature heavy sound. Further showcasing their range, Sleep Token covered OutKasts "Hey Ya!" in February 2017, before signing with Basick Records and releasing Two that July.

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