JAKE TAYLOR Of IN HEARTS WAKE Talks Tarot, Incarnation, And The Power Of The Underworld

Interview by Angela Croudace
In our interview with Jake Taylor, the powerhouse vocalist of Australian metal band In Hearts Wake, we dug into the band’s latest album Incarnation, their connection to tarot, and the unique creative journey behind their latest work.
The concept for Incarnation is deeply rooted in the band’s early fascination with tarot, something that’s been in Taylor’s life since childhood. “My mum was a tarot reader, so I grew up around people coming to her for readings,” Jake shared, “On this album, every song aligns with a major arcana card, but we’ve flipped them upside down,” he explained. This inversion of meanings reflects the darker, shadowy themes explored on the record. Incarnation delves deep into the underworld, musically and spiritually, creating a sonic experience that’s intense, raw, and unrelenting.
Jake also revealed that tarot is more than just a lyrical motif for the band—it’s a tool for personal reflection. “We’ve turned to tarot during pivotal moments, like when we were figuring out the exit of a band member, just to see if things were aligned,” he said. This insight goes beyond mere fortune-telling, instead helping the band navigate life’s challenging decisions.
Aside from the mystical, Jake also spoke about the band’s growth and experiences. Touring internationally, including a huge milestone tour with Slipknot and Lamb of God, has cemented In Hearts Wake’s reputation as a force in the heavy music scene.
In 2025, In Hearts Wake will bring their dark, powerful sound to Australia’s Knotfest for the first time. The band is eager to take their place alongside metal heavyweights like Slipknot and Polaris. “It’s a nice recognition,”
Jake reflected, “Australia gets it—it gets the heavy music, the humour, and the wild places. We can’t wait to share that connection on home soil.” It promises to be an unmissable moment for fans.
When it comes to advice for aspiring Aussie musicians, Jake stressed the importance of staying grounded. “It’s got to be about the music and the people first,” he advised. “Don’t chase the numbers game. Find the roots that keep you connected to what you love.”
With Incarnation now out, In Hearts Wake continues to push boundaries, blending their passion for music with a spiritual depth that’s unique in the metal world.


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