The Awakening is a musical project founded in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1995 by vocalist, songwriter, guitarist and producer Ashton Nyte. The sound has been described as a hybrid of gothic rock, industrial rock and new wave - a combination that was described by Nyte as "dark future rock." The Awakening has released eight studio albums, several singles, EPs and two greatest hits compilations. As of 2008 The Awakening has been based in the United States.