Progressive rock in this century

I’d read less if I were you, if not

Continuing my series of enlightening articles on near famous rock bands I’d like to introduce you to the Swedish heavy metal group, Opeth. As happens with certain bands Opeth have a leader that does the lion’s share of work. Mikael Akerfeldt is singer, lead guitarist and chief songwriter. He is the type of guy who would sell the T-shirts after the gig; it’s possible he’s been there, done that.

Throughout their career the band have performed songs that adhere to the death metal category. For the uninitiated, death metal incorporates discordant deformed guitars, growling and bleak indecipherable vocals, super-fast blasting drums all served up with dark satanic lyrics. It’s an acquired taste. Opeth, though, were always above being limited by any genre. Their music features tempo changes with acoustic guitars mixed with lengthy solos.

Their new album -available on September 20th- has no snarling vocals. Critics are polarised. My own point of view is that the complete progressive rock experience is a natural progression of their back catalogue; my only fault with their new opus is that it is on the Roadrunner label. Akerfeldt was quoted in the latest issue of Metal Hammer magazine as saying. “There are a lot more Dream Theater and Porcupine Tree shirts than In Flames or At The Gates at our concerts”.

At the other end of the spectrum some fans are extremely angry with the new direction Opeth have taken.