Dismissing power-driven sound creations influenced by alternative metal selections and punk rock references, Taken's compositions combine both muscular-sounding tunes and steaming rhythms, ultimately discharging a unique mixture of hardcore style and melodious metal features. Gathering in 1997 in Orange County, CA, Taken combined the efforts of Ray Harkins (vocals), Chad Tafolla (guitar), Dan Baird (guitar), Nick Beard (bass), and Troy Burn (drums). Following months rehearsing and playing at various local clubs, the five-piece crew entered the studio to record their first demo. Released in late 1998, the disc eventually sold out shortly afterward, offering the band considerable notice. In 1999, succeeding the recording of the single "The Haven," their second studio recording, Taken secured a deal with Goodfellow Records. Finding Solace in Dissension, their first record for the new label, hit record stores in 2000 before they entered their first full U.S. tour. In 2001, Taken entered the studio once more, recording their debut album, And They Slept. ~ Mario Mesquita Borges, All Music Guide