Opeth "Ghost of Perdition" REACTION & ANALYSIS by Vocal Coach/Opera Singer

What does it sound like when there's an infusion of progressive metal, folk, blues, classical and jazz all in one lengthy composition, with a topping of death metal? I don't know, but by request at our 100k party, I break down Opeth with an alcoholic treat! This is a wild ride.
Join professional opera singer Elizabeth Zharoff as she listens to Opeth performing "Ghost of Perdition" and breaks it down for the first time, while tipsy and buzzed.
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I definitely recommend watching the original video without interruptions, here's the link: • OPETH - Ghost of Perdi...
Show Opeth some love: / @opeth
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Elizabeth Zharoff is an international opera singer and voice coach, with 3 degrees in voice, opera, and music production. She's performed in 18 languages throughout major venues in Europe, America, and Asia. Currently based somewhere between Los Angeles and Tucson, Arizona, Elizabeth spends her days researching voice, singing, teaching, writing music, and recording TONS. She also plays Diablo and Dungeons & Dragons.
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Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
Non-profit, educational, or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.
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#Opeth #Reaction #ElizabethZharoff
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[@TheCharismaticVoice]

We just released merchandise! Check out the full line-up here: thecharismaticmerch.com

[@Plastikdoom]

Please do old school opeth, like deliverance, or other songs from that album or before. They are great. Or masters apprentice, any of the old stuff, honestly way, way better. Though this works….just not a patch on what they were.

[@ilijajukic8984]

I would like to see a reaction to Benighted by Opeth

[@googelle7555]

Keyboardist = other vocalist

[@ccb1127]

@@Plastikdoom not a fan of the prog rock?

[@Plastikdoom]

@@ccb1127 it’s alright, but that’s not opeth, not their beginning…some weird, lesser morph of them, and frankly sad. I like the elements of it they used to incorporate, but they were more, now, sadly not. Drastic changes in bands. In my opinion are horrendous, and I never like them, the one thing that’ll make me stop listening to them, buying their music. As it’s just wrong. Only watched, cause it’s Elizabeth.

[@francescosirotti8178]

"Lets get drunk and listen to Opeth"... Spoken like a true metalhead!

[@j-man6923]

Welcome to my weekends

[@nathanvance2648]

the most frequently spoken line of any distinguished metal head.

[@JCGver]

Let me play the song on my people, reaction from the person that doesn't know my people: 1:55

[@danielguest7841]

One of my favorite things to do.... Opeth + alcohol = happy me!!! Especially Ghost Reveries. What an incredible album. I can't start it without finishing. Next up, would be any Opeth, especially the Steve Wilson produced albums. They are simply magical.

[@jacobthompson1682]

Her openness to that feeling is why I'm here. E is amazing.

[@swds613]

"This song is a masterpiece, in fact, every song I have written is a masterpiece." -Mikael Åkerfeldt

[@leviathan3630]

He really said that?

[@swds613]

@@leviathan3630 Yes, at a concert at the Norva in Norfolk, VA some years ago. He is pretty funny in his interactions with the crowd.

[@pascalschulz5894]

@@leviathan3630 Dude is funny as hell, could be a comedian as well.

[@leviathan3630]

@@swds613 Oh, so he was being somewhat sarcastic, cause if he said that in an interview it would sound kinda pretentious

[@theraxis]

@@leviathan3630 I mean, he knows he's an amazing musician, but yeah, dude's really sarcastic.

[@mrkawrinberr]

I took a music theory class in college. First assignment: bring in a song on and break down the simple song structure. So I said “word I’m bringing ghost of perdition.” Brought the CD and played it for the class. Professor was a sweet old man, choir teacher his whole life. he nearly JUMPED OUT OF HIS SHIRT at the opening scream. But he had fun he laughed about it. But that’s not the best part: The best part was another dude brought in another, much more beautiful, Opeth song but he busted-out his acoustic guitar and PLAYED THE WHOLE SONG for the class FLAWLESSLY.

[@electronvideogames5341]

Do you remember what the other song was?

[@EliseTheBloody]

@@electronvideogames5341 My guess is Dirge for November or Will'o'The Wisp

[@mexicanmaui1062]

@@EliseTheBloody benighted, benighted is a really pretty acoustic song that’s fairly difficult

[@tose5566]

@@mexicanmaui1062that was my first guess

[@rotemeliaz]

@@EliseTheBloody Could also be Harvest or Benighted

[@random_n]

"I think he's an ogre" Mikael *definitely* has layers

[@andrewhart9310]

Haha such a great observation. :)

[@redrayne86]

Are you sure he's not just an onion: says donkey

[@andrewhart9310]

@@redrayne86 Cakes have layers, too.

[@redrayne86]

@@andrewhart9310 ha haha. I've not watched shrek in ages

[@christosgazaris1158]

Congratulations random_n - You have won the internet. Lol

[@nathanaelhowe6914]

"This guy already has me." Every Opeth fan EVER.

[@ravynkat]

PREACH 🤘🏻

[@Cheximus]

Before the abominations that were Sorceress and ICV, indeed.

[@AdiaShardae]

@@Cheximus I mean, the pure clean, even more "straightforward" traditional influenced prog focused Opeth is definitely not my jam, but I wouldn't go as far as to call it an abomination. It's not nearly as dynamic but I can respect it.

[@Partycannonrocks]

@@Cheximus Sorceress is a masterpiece. That whole album is perfect, start to finish.

[@Cheximus]

@@Partycannonrocks I wish I thought the same.

[@jculrich8352]

I love how this community has taken this beautiful opera singer and transformed her into a true metalhead. Thanks Elizabeth you rock!!!!!

[@katkatCSI]

She is annoying and boring.

[@karowolkenschaufler7659]

I suspect it was always in her. she married a metalhead. and metal and classical music are like siblings.

[@DRUMah_aja]

davin, labrie, akerfelt well she is a metalhead herself

[@deceiver444]

Metal and Opera share one thing most of the time for sure : a sense of epicness

[@andrewgoreds]

She came to ride the death metal Dragon and thus become Khaleesi

[@ivan_osorio]

"Good job keyboard player! I see you!" The most recognition a keyboardist has gotten since Yes or ELP. Keyboard players everywhere who are also backup singers, there is hope.

[@insederec]

or rush or type o or liquid tension experiment

[@thewildhealer541]

Richard Wright might be the most underrated keyboard player too

[@spartansquid5931]

I disagree, the keyboardist of Dream Theater (and Liquid Tension Experiment, Jordan Rudess) is talked about as much as John Petrucci at this point

[@sanusmotus1696]

And yet Joakim ties it all together and makes Opeth so distinctive

[@Nando_2]

"Crazy time signatures, exploratory sound, and they take a long time to do it" I am gonna use this when people ask what prog sounds like.

[@mattmclaughlin4556]

In an interview with him on Loudwire, he mentioned that his growl is actually kind of quiet. He uses very little volume and slight compression to achieve it. He actually said he didn't know it sounded like that until they recorded it and he could hear it back. I think he pretty well has the best growl in all of Metal. Opeth fan 4VR

[@bowelrupture]

The best way to growl is to be relaxed. And it does not need to be loud. I never overdo it at a gig. Also, i invested in a good microphone. The problem is that the equipment on stage fails, is bad, or is not even there. You need a good monitor in front of you. When you can't hear your self loud enough, you are going to overdo it by trying to growl louder than it is comfortable. That is the moment you are going to ruin your vocals.

[@shoujahatsumetsu]

@@bowelrupture Go tell Alex Terrible. :P

[@AntonNidhoggr]

A glass of wine and a smart face is actually a right way to listen to Opeth. They are classy )

[@kirkmccune7944]

Too bad I stuffed her full of gin.

[@AntonNidhoggr]

@@kirkmccune7944 that's ok for a start )

[@TheLizardWizard17]

whiskey on the rocks is another way to do it lmao

[@megarockfreak]

Oh no, I don't drink alcohol. A smart face alone does that also count. haha ;)

[@maianation]

Also one should wear a smoking jacket while listening.

[@brittaleesterling]

I’m also an opera singer, but Opeth is the group I’ve seen perform the most times live. I love them!

[@miloblackmetalhate]

We need more people like you! Do you ever post your own work?

[@murderburger1811]

7 times here, how many times have you seen them?

[@onixtheone]

Little known fact: The lead singer's first singing lessons were from a Jazz vocalist, that's where he learned some technique

[@adriandrake2720]

Sounds like we need a Death Jazz band.

[@DCJayhawk57]

@@adriandrake2720 Check out the band Shining. Experimental jazz metal.

[@gerardoa9179]

Do a research of Dan Swano

[@al3xt6m60]

Dan swano. Mostly his pan.thy.monium work. Also sadists 1996 album tribe and all of atheists albums

[@pubbiehive]

Opeth has a lot of jazz influences in their music imo

[@llulisesll]

Holy shit it's happening! Everybody be cool, don't panic...DON'T PANIC!

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

Don't forget your towel!

[@vigridr7614]

Too late. Looked at title, immediately panicked. Red Rocks rather than Roundhouse Tapes but hey, more than likely a better introductory version of the song and band itself being much newer and amazingly well produced/mixed!

[@henryruizph.d7161]

Was into them since Orchid & Morningrise...

[@faasrumaar91]

Actually im curious who recommended opeth 4 a reaction video....i like them ive seen them live, but wouldn't have recommended them...sure thing this will be hell of a ride 4 Elizabeth cause this is no country either!! As recommendations goes, pls do heart of a dragon by Bruce dickinson! Love from Italy ♥️🇮🇹ur beautiful and talented keep it up

[@faasrumaar91]

Holy freaks im bad i butchered the name of the song.. It is tears of a dragon!! Sry 4 that.... By this rate next month we will see some cannibal corpse action

[@Allhopeforhumanity]

I can already see that we're starting 2021 off right!

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

I mean, after what happened last year, what better way to start a new beginning off?

[@kirkmccune7944]

We need to do another Jackbox night again soon!

[@Allhopeforhumanity]

@@kirkmccune7944 Just let us know what works for your schedules, we're pretty much free outside of wednesday nights.

[@henryruizph.d7161]

@@TheCharismaticVoice Opeth is one of my favorite bands...Thank you for sharing your thoughts & Musical expertise...I believe you would really appreciate a band entitled Therion...Some of the prettiest compositions & vocals...They’re an older band...Bands like Nightwish wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for the influence of Therion...Suggest a very poignant title Clavicular Nox...I was a Navy Seal & crying wasn’t in my vocabulary...That song makes me cry like a baby...They have many other titles exquisitely written...Just a thought...

[@_hexes_]

A singer who also analyzes rhythm? Impossible! This is amazing 😂

[@MikeCarvin]

well she's opera singer

[@snootherj]

Late to the party, I know. But she kind of butchers it from that perspective. She gets all mixed up in the early changes, thinking there are meter and tempo shifts, when it's just 6/8 at the original tempo until 20:00. At that point she misses the shift into 4/4 time. She's great tho for sure. Oh well, sorry to "akshually" all over it...

[@mortenrl1946]

@@snootherj hahah thanks, was here assuming I just had stupid ear

[@almametal10]

@@snootherjakkshually... you're right! nice one!

[@dani4ever]

​@@snootherj there stupid "actually"s, but to be honest most are 100% important to make but society shuns that and knowledge is almost mocked in a way.

[@jvoxfox]

This thumbnail just made my night. You are amazing

[@kirbys1370]

And you're Amazing too, Julia! ❤

[@johanstenborg1465]

I'm a big fan of both your channels. Would love to see a collaboration one day.

[@PlugInKali]

You should react to this one too ;)

[@Bherf]

My first thought "go home, you are drunk!"

[@amjan]

"My name is Juliar" :D

[@charliepag6557]

Elizabeth: Sometimes it's difficult to hear what he's singing... what the words are there Mikael: Nah nah nah nah na na nah aye yi ya na na na nah

[@2012fede2012]

For some reason Mikael turns the word "higher" into that xD

[@xxhellspawnedxx]

Yeah, it's odd. Opeth and Vader are the bands I've seen live that can achieve this sort of polish live, to where they're essentially as tight and well-produced live as on record. But yeah, this was weird, he usually sings his clear parts with much more enunciation, and does his growls with more variation as well. I dunno if this was at the end of their set (and they usually do crazy long sets when they can get away with it, like 2-3 hours straight. But he was never this buttoned up any of the times I saw them live, not even towards the end of their sets.

[@kylesmith261]

@@2012fede2012 HIIIIIIIIIIII nah nah nah nah na na aye yi

[@dsforthman1]

@@xxhellspawnedxx Soilwork's another. I've been to their live show twice and both times it was like I was listening to the records.

[@Jonsson474]

It’s harder for the words to come out clear through that moustache. 😉

[@ubernerrd]

The look on your face when Mikhael opens up with those growls. :D Makes me wish I could experience Opeth for the first time again.

[@stephantom8237]

Yeah, really. Watching her reaction actually did make me remember listening to them for the first time as a teenager.

[@walker8476]

I like how you're so open-minded about other types of music

[@maksphoto78]

I think she's a metalhead deep down.

[@crhu319]

All music is another type of music.

[@taylor_imaging]

I love the way she just nerds out about anything music!

[@lf.l5766]

@@maksphoto78 a better kind, the everythingwithmusicalityinithead

[@zynosgd9982]

I think she's simply into it by now

[@jcthomas3718]

"Sounds like you're in a forest".... yeah.. Harlequin Forest!

[@DuskPatrol]

Winner

[@stevemuzak8526]

The forest mood is quintessential part of Opeth.

[@coolguy4179]

Damnation. The whole album. If you really want to hear how beautiful Mikael's voice is, that album nails it.

[@miloblackmetalhate]

Hope Leaves makes everyone cry

[@TruBluGuitar]

That's my sleepy time album, love it!!

[@FionaMisty]

That album is my ultimate fave 🤩 That was my year long goal to learn the entire album on guitar of all the parts. I got lazy and los focus half way through or less but I did manage to nail down a at least half the album 🤣

[@sparkboy33]

YES! I wish she would now review one of those songs on the album.

[@swc1355]

Don't forget Damnation, companion albums, great stuff.

[@Onitsutube]

oh Elizabeth You would SO enjoy Harlequin forest from Opeth, especially the live performance at Royal Albert Hall ;o)

[@blppt]

Nah, the pure acoustic guitars on the album version make it the superior listen.

[@werewolf2003002]

This is a great version of the song! It one I recommend all the time, that concert in general is one of my favorite live performances from this band. "Harvest" and "Hope Leaves" from this same concert would be a couple of great singing-only picks

[@cobrakai9969]

@@blppt Album version absolutely is the superior listen. Perfect song.

[@SliderFury1]

Agreed, but also agreed with others, album version or bust.

[@Ragnarob666]

BURDEN!

[@KuBaYa87]

I'm just gonna say it : this is hands down the best reaction channel on youtube right now! Your knowledge, combined with your joyfull personality, makes every video an incredible journey!

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

Thank you, KuBaYa! Let's get the word out there ;-)

[@mfu3415]

Yes, I feel this way, too ;)

[@sierravalleyandharborjunction]

Michael is one of the few metal voices I can actually tolerate with the growls....because of the balanced with the smooth vocals he does.....top it off with superior music it makes for a great overall experience... I've seen them live and they are truly amazing

[@Covenantt666]

This is why Opeth is one of Jinjer's greatest inspirations.

[@eqgilethan]

Eugene's favorite band and Tatiana has voiced her admiration for Mikael Akerfeldt.

[@wypimentel]

So, Opeth died after Ghost Reveries and born again in Jinjer, my opnion...

[@zermington]

@@wypimentel died after watershed

[@exortor]

@@wypimentel they didn't die, they evolved their sound and there is nothing wrong with that.

[@thatsprettylunchean]

@@zermington What a dumb statement.

[@federicominguzzi100]

Elizabeth, you should REALLY listen to Opeth's "Face of Melinda" to appreciate the most of Mikael Åkerfeldt clean vocals.

[@agustinlado]

That's an awesome tune! I like it so much that I learned it on guitar and hopefully one day I'll learn to sing it. But Mikael's singing has changed in the last 22 years, and in case you haven't given it a chance (which a lot of Opeth fans don't because it's "less metal" or something) listen to their last album, which hold Mikael's best singing performances. Bonus points for the Swedish version. I couldn't stop listening to the end of Continuum in a loop yesterday for instance.

[@babaspector]

my favorite clean vocals song from opeth is probably "hours of wealth", if not "face of melinda". both are great anyways.

[@Misanthrope84]

Most underrated Opeth song ever. A true masterpiece. One of my all-time favorites.

[@Dmantag]

Another pretty great song with Mikael singing with a clean voice is Universal Truth, at least to me that is

[@danyaelkeepers2529]

Yes good opeth...like to bid you farewell...anything from still life...a true masterpiece

[@MrMcSmack]

Im so impressed by the drummer. There are sooooo many tempo shifts and he keeps up amazingly

[@Loctorak]

As a pianist/guitarist with no talents at drumming whatsoever, its not something I tend to actively listen to in songs. Opeths drummer, though, is one of the few that's made me stop and replay parts of songs because I was just like "whatever the drums did there was brilliant and i need to hear it again"

[@kianpourzand4893]

To me “The Moor“ is one of the best opeth songs. I feel like when people are only scratching the surface on this band “Still Life“ is an album that does not get the attention it deserves (I might be a bit bias because it’s my favourite)

[@kozmik_junkie]

Still life is what defines opeth's music actually. Godheads lament is epic for me

[@xyhmo]

It's consistently ranked as one of the top Opeth albums (sometimes #1, almost always top 3), so I'm not sure about being underrated. Maybe not quite as popular as BP, but still... life.

[@kianpourzand4893]

@@xyhmo no in general it’s not underrated at all but I feel like newer opeth listeners don’t give it as much attention because they see it as independent pieces rather than a whole concept album.

[@shredgordon3240]

Yeah still life is definitely my favorite opeth album, with my favorite song being serenity painted death or white cluster. I’ve been listening to their first 2 albums recently and they are definitely underrated, but I’m still not a fan of my arms your hearse and deliverance even after giving them both multiple chances.

[@musick777]

Listening to it in 5.1 surround is life-changing

[@Zambad]

Oh this is a pleasant surprise! The song that got me into Opeth

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

It's the song that might have gotten ME into Opeth now too!

[@dennisvanopstal7360]

Me too 😎

[@Thystonius]

Exactly the same for me. Still love this song so much. One of my favourites of the album

[@CMOTDibbler66]

First time listening to Opeth, and as an old fan of ELP, Yes, Jethro Tull, I felt right at home!

[@ferox965]

@@TheCharismaticVoice Just wait til you hear the Drapery Falls. It's as close to a perfect song as it gets.

[@AngelPerez-ul3ni]

Let’s not forget he’s doing all of this while playing guitar which is so hard. Can’t even tell ya how hard that is

[@Loctorak]

I can. It's really really hard.

[@racewiththefalcons1]

11:24 - Joakim Svalberg, the keyboardist.

[@GeraMontes]

He is fantastic and an amazing person too

[@mstrasser]

I think that high "ooohhhh" is still Mike. at 11:09 you can see Mike still holding a note while the other voice (Joakim) is doing the "yeah yeah ya" vocal line.

[@nicolastrejo4141]

@@mstrasser Yup, the higher note is done by Mikael

[@jasonjuneau2948]

I like that she talks about time signatures as well not just vocal techniques

[@scotttesar7156]

Definitely - she's a MUSICIAN, not just a vocal coach/performer...

[@Sputterbug]

@@scotttesar7156 wut? a voice is an instrument. she'd be a musician even if she didn't talk about it

[@ThunderRiffs87]

I read in an interview with Mikael one time, that the initial opening line turned out that way to prove to himself and listeners that he can still scare the hell out of people. I think it worked lol

[@nagonsnoise]

Her reactions are even more cute when she's tipsy.

[@kirkmccune7944]

You say that now... and then a shiny, sparkly ceiling in a Vegas Casino catches her attention and you roam around looking for her for an hour...

[@nagonsnoise]

@@kirkmccune7944 Channel your inner Twilight vampire and outsparkle the ceiling? :) Easily mesmerized by beauty is kinda preferable to cold analytical detachment.

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

This is a fair point, Hans. He SHOULD do that!

[@rumynKSF]

@@TheCharismaticVoice I think he has no chance to do otherwise...

[@rumynKSF]

@@kirkmccune7944 but you have to admit,Kirk, that all this time ,you definitely weren't bored and how much joy there was when you found her!

[@chim-choo-ree]

The first time I heard Opeth, I thought it was two different singers. Nope. This is Mikael Akerfeldt in all his Swedish glory.

[@Calirohe]

Ooooh, this is going to be good, I am so glad Opeth has been chosen

[@apolamperouge6013]

that face when everyone hears Mikael's cookie monster voice first then his singing voice

[@debranelson1987]

"Cookieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee"

[@JonaxII]

I remember when every "vocalist reacts" did Jinjer - Pisces. Exactly the same thing. One does simply not expect a vocalist to do growls and clean vocals in one song side by side, especially not to be actually good at both.

[@lehtokurppa7824]

@@JonaxII Mikael basically created that himself. Mixing growls and cleans. Others did it too but he "mainstreamed" it.

[@Salomon_G]

@@lehtokurppa7824 Mikael didn't create that. He didn't mainstream it either. Burton C. Bell - Fear Factory.

[@the9pillarsofnosgoth998]

"Time signature talk time" Dream Theater: Hello

dysrhythmia says: yeah...

[@kirkhammett41]

Spastic Ink: Hi

[@_Just_Some1]

Anyone knows if she has reacted to Dream Theatre already? Can't be asked to go check, haha

[@MikeCarvin]

Yes :hi guys

[@MrKoolaidjam]

The greatest band of all time. Akerfeldt is a musical genius as well as a fantastic vocalist/instrumentalist

[@omkarbharambe8673]

and most importantly, an exceptional songwriter.

[@ferox965]

People who thread the songwriter needle like that only come along once in a generation. He's right up there with Dylan, Waits, Lennon and McCartney in my opinion.

[@omkarbharambe8673]

@@ferox965 imho he is even above those legends you just stated, mainly because the genre he writes & plays the songs in is itself more complex and technical, and of course, the songs being 10 minutes long on an average. But to agree with you, he's right up there along with the established greats in music. I just wish he was recognized more, but that sadly won't happen given the niche genre of music.

[@Ultr4l0f]

He is also the best dude on The mic between songs. Laid back and utterly hilarious

[@MrKoolaidjam]

@@Ultr4l0f Akerfeldt often plays music in between his Stand-up sets

[@blubaibi3378]

Her surprised expression when Akerfelt went to clean vocal mode is priceless! :D

[@MetallicAddict15]

I need a woman in my life who wants to get drunk and listen to Opeth haha

[@arch92]

Same bro sameee 🤣

[@shimmeries]

They're not hard to find

[@JohnRobinson-cp3cz]

Don't we all

[@donfillinger3571]

@@shimmeries wyd 🤔

[@jsmithers.]

@@shimmeries Stfų

[@SantamanitaClauscaria]

I highly recommend the album version of this song. Mikael's death metal growls are deeper and truly inhuman sounding, and he sings those high notes at the end of the song himself, and not in falsetto. The live version is pretty good but the album Ghost Reveries from start to finish was Opeth at its peak.

[@erickleroux8357]

Dissecting his vocal technique and analysing the overall awesomeness of his singing/growling takes a whole other level once you realise he is doing all that while playing guitar in signature times... wow

[@jgadams93]

The first time I saw Opeth live was in a little dive just off a college campus. It was just after Damnation was released. There were scores of little sorority girls there, no doubt drawn to the melodic instrumentals and clean vocals of Damnation. The band opened with Deliverance. The look on those little co-eds faces as they fled that venue in abject horror were priceless!

[@vietnamd0820]

I had the opposite experience…I went to see Opeth live and was hoping they’d play Ghost Of Perdition…they didn’t do that song and didn’t do a single hard song either…when the concert was over, I left in disgust…I’ve never seen them again live since

[@Baalaaxa]

Oh, how you made me wish I was there, lol. No doubt quite a sight to see.

[@progperljungman8218]

@@vietnamd0820 That was a one time tour just after Heritage in 2011 I believe(?) Don't think they've ever done that again(?)

[@vietnamd0820]

@@progperljungman8218 Yep, it was about ten years ago…if a band’s going to do something like that, give the fans a heads-up first so we can decide whether we want to see a performance with *not* a *single* death metal song…that’s the main reason I’ll never see them again…it’s like seeing Metallica and then they surprise you with an entire set of “Nothing Else Matters”-type songs…it wouldn’t surprise me if everyone in attendance becomes ex-fans

[@progperljungman8218]

@@vietnamd0820 I also attended a concert on that tour and it was announced that it was to be a mellow set.

[@Growlizing]

Michael was known for having very variable live vocals until about 2006/2007, when I think he started getting some benefit from vocal lessons. His live clean vocals has improved massively since 2007, so I think it's fair to say that his vocals really are a product of practice and training.

[@josueignaciomm]

The high part you asked about was also Mikael... When he goes up Joakim the keyboard player starts the low one

[@brad_wilson]

Scrolled to make sure someone said this. :)

[@Wishpool]

@@brad_wilson ditto! :)

[@gmolbreakG5]

I'm pretty sure Mikael's voice goes lower and Joakim sings the high part.

[@AdrianoRibeiro123]

It's the opposite.

[@victormontielpiano]

Just wanted to say this is one of the best reactions I have seen. Elizabeth really knows what she is talking about, she has a lot of musical knowledge and sensibility, and her comments are always interesting and on point. Awesome!!

[@FoschimikawlE]

Oh my god you did an Opeth song, my favorite band. This is amazing. I would highly recommend doing a song off of the damnation album to get the contrast between their heavy and soft sound and vocal styles.

[@Flagg795]

Quite a surprise! Very cool. If she digs this I would love to hear Deliverance or Harlequin Forest.

[@medusaobfuscata6050]

Was going to mention Harlequin Forest - so glad you beat me to it! Soooooo gooooood

[@shreddykrueger7641]

Harlequin is my favorite. Such a wild journey.

[@GAIS414]

@@medusaobfuscata6050 Yes Harlequin Forest would be my choice too. The singing is way more impressive on that than Ghost of Perdition imho.

[@Urxiel]

So much this. Please try Harlequin Forest.

[@thewarhamster8139]

Given her response to how he sings vs. Growls in this song, I'd love to see her do a song from this set either post Watershed or from Damnation so she can get both sides of Opeth's diverse spectrum.

[@neomanwell998]

I took too long to discover this MARVELOUS BAND. But never is too late. When I started to listen it has become easily one of my top 5 favorite bands EVER.

[@drdoktor77]

Awesome to see this on the channel! Mikael Akerfeldt was one of the first extreme metal vocalists to push the contrast between growls and really beautiful clean singing. And if you like Progressive Metal, their album Blackwater Park is an absolute landmark- and they even performed the whole album in a filmed live concert at the Royal Albert Hall about ten years ago, so that's something you should check out. Love the channel and hope you have a great new year!

[@fnglert]

After this you need to do Blackwater Park, an absolute masterpiece by Opeth.

[@vizerakth7073]

Yeah, just a whole album reaction! :D

[@AdolfoSalinasP]

My favourite Opeth album... Now is 20 years old!!!

[@19MacRazy]

If you're a head banger that can't air drum the BwP outro licks on yer lap, you need to reevaluate your life... XD Juss sayn...

[@eddipl5055]

Best coach vocal reactor hands down!

[@gorillaGPT]

Some "Porcupine Tree" maybe? A brilliant Steven Wilson's voice blended with perfect instrumentals. "Arriving somewhere but not here" would be an awesome choice

[@tate138]

I second that; Arriving Somewhere is an amazing song in every way. Mikael Åkerfeldt also sings and plays guitar on the studio version of that song.

[@alajononon]

Yep and the live version during that tour is stellar.

[@lockekappa500]

Lol a review of that song would be like 2 hours lol.

[@creations-by-CMHigh]

Awesome recommendation!!! Pretty much any song off of In Absentia would be awesome.

[@todd3458]

Heartattack in a Layby

[@jmcsquared18]

Opeth, wine, and musical nerdiness? Take my sub.

[@soakedbearrd]

Something to note about Mikael is he's completely self taught how to sing. If you contrast he's clean singing in Morningrise and compare it to lets say their last album it's literally night and day.

[@lordnmaster2]

I would watch an entire video of Elizabeth doing nothing but reacting to time signature changes in metal music.

[@Daytimedreamer]

Definitely. We'd have to throw some Meshuggah and similar stuff in.

[@waynedamron8006]

@@Daytimedreamer omg lol meshuggah would be great

[@waynedamron8006]

@@Daytimedreamer give me some btbam as well

[@Nick-Nasty]

I love opeth, mikael is incredible, but man there is so much subtle perfection in a studio recording that you missed out on. The growls are so damn good in studio

[@Novakiller]

I hope Elizabeth does a song like baying of the hounds or beneath the mire for examples of the crazy contrast between his harsh and super delicate soft pretty vocals! My favorite type of vocals! 😈🤘

[@xxhellspawnedxx]

Deliverance, my dude! Deliverance is peak Opeth, imo.

[@randomstuffzofdoom]

Opeth is heavly inspired by both blues and jazz, so yeah. They started out closer to death metal but have slowly progressed towards a softer blues/jazz/progrock sound.

[@neuroticgothguy]

more early 70s prog rock and ABBA, according to Mikael

[@maasurino]

Steven Wilson and Mikael influence each other

[@neuroticgothguy]

@@maasurino yeah, pretty much

[@SilencedForgotten]

YOU GOT THE OCTOPUS LMAO

[@girshin]

Heh. Didn’t expect to see you here. Small world KZbin.

[@beautyofsylence]

She's had it for ages now!

[@Patrick-857]

Lol fancy seeing you here.

[@LopesNamorato]

Who gave it to her? Was Devin himself, or a fan?

[@jamisonc7500]

Sinatra?

[@kirrilian]

I saw them live at a small venue and the lead singer stopped singing and saying guys, guys, stop! He asked the sound guy to change a few things and changed a couple things with the band and they started the song over again. One of the best sounding live performances I've ever heard compared to their studio sound. Long time fan

[@iamtheiconoclast3]

My recommendation is that you find some interviews with Mikael also. His speaking voice is this really effortless, soothing baritone and he's a weird dude who always has interesting perspectives on stuff.

[@staceybaldridge7362]

I was going to say that. I love listening to him speaking. He’s got such a gorgeous voice.

[@wtfpwnz0red]

Love seeing a reaction that picks up on all the little nuance and texture that makes a song great. I really enjoy watching you listen to music.

[@waynedamron8006]

im learning little things to listen to/for while watching her. Great channel

[@massacrationable]

DEMON OF THE FALL AT THE ROUNDHOUSE TAPES!!!!! BEST GROWLS IN HISTORY OF MUSIC

[@KardavoxAcademy]

No joke, you can absolutely turn the sound at 2:34 into a good scream over time!

[@lukemadden4434]

You guys should do a collab where you show her how to growl

[@KardavoxAcademy]

@@lukemadden4434 I can neither confirm nor deny that we may have talked about this together................

[@SKULLEDBUICK]

@@KardavoxAcademy I can't wait to see her two years from now with black hair, thick eyeliner, a studded leather jacket and spiked wristbands. The female growler icon we never saw coming lmao.

[@KardavoxAcademy]

@@SKULLEDBUICK Oh we're going full corpse paint!

[@vigridr7614]

Let's keep in mind this is done during a 2 hour long gig at 6500 feet of altitude. Impressive feat for the whole band, but especially for Mikael and ESPECIALLY at a time many consider him to be past his "prime" (I personally disagree, but it is inarguable old performances like the one at the Roundhouse Tapes here on youtube or with Bloodbath at Wacken are completely surreal vocally). That said, very happy to see Opeth! Looking forward to the premiere tomorrow.

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

I always forget the location of Colorado, and with the outside venue... that's a really good point!

[@heathen-heart]

I was at Wacken that year and saw Bloodbath and it was so damn good.

[@FabioLovaglio]

His growls have certainly degraded at some point between 2006 and 2010 and pretty bad too, however from 2019/20 those growls are more consistent and sound better but the technique is still quite different from the early 2000's. That being said his cleans are consistently getting better and better and Mikeal in general is delivering beautiful gems of rare beauty as a performer and composer.

[@toni.tapola]

@@heathen-heart You lucky S.O.B.! 😉 _The Wacken Carnage_ is *so* good already as "merely" a live video album...

[@idontcare_wtf]

@@FabioLovaglio I think the voice changes with you... the same way a musician doesn't write the same today than 5 years ago. You're not the same person, nor your voice is.

[@apnero]

They have one of the cleanest sounds live I have heard. Phenomenal live band.

[@brycecole7883]

“Window pane” by opeth is a beautiful song by them clean vocals the whole way through live or not

[@mickot]

Windowpane +1 (with 🍷)

[@laoude7890]

windowpane, in my time of need and isolation years. all are amazing.

[@cristianmohamed3333]

Amazing Another recommended song is "Harlequin forests"

[@sam_metal]

Came back 2 years later to watch this. Still one of the best react videos on the internet, due to both Elizabeth and the genius that is Opeth.

[@wipehoegg333]

If Elizabeth asks me to grab a drink in order to listen to Opeth, then I go and grab a drink. Even if it is wednesday at 6 AM.

[@probie2460]

You win, she wins and we win. Best comment 👌

[@brigandboy1425]

It is really cool watching someone who obviously loves music in all of its subtlety appreciate this level of performance. Watching your reaction is almost as entertaining as watching the music video.

[@orjanjohansson6392]

As a Swede, having watched your videos for a couple of months now and loving your takes, this made me so happy!

[@nickpease2073]

Swedish metal rules bro!

[@leviathan3630]

Even between just Meshuggah and Opeth Sweden's metal is on another level.

[@mistakenforabadger1978]

My goodness, first Eivør now Opeth. Did christmas start too early again?

[@kirkmccune7944]

I'm having a bit more influence on the selection. It's going to be a GREAT year.

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

It's always Christmas!

[@C64SX]

@@kirkmccune7944 I imagine having a few of Islays finest and discuss music with you would make an interesting evening. Cheers!

[@kirkmccune7944]

@@C64SX I got my bottle of Oban right here. Let's do it!

[@C64SX]

@@kirkmccune7944 I'll pour myself a Lagavulin and give you a skål from across the pond :)

[@GrimFelArt]

I just adore Mikael so much. He has one of the best vocals in metal I've ever heard, and I've heard a *lot* of metal in my life. His growls are so resonant and consistent, and his cleans are just ethereal and haunting. And yes he does *all* of the front vocals, including those floaty high notes I've met him too, he's so warm and lovely, I got hugs and extra stuff signed and a short chat before they had to go out on stage 💕

[@simonmawhinney3478]

If you want to cry at some of the most beautiful lyrics ever written: Tool “Wings for Marie Part 1 and 2” Possibly the most moving piece of art dedicated to the memory of a lost mother you will come across.

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

My husband is a massive Tool fan, and hasn't let me listen to those two songs. I believe I'm doing Judith on January 29th in memory of his mother, and will do Wings for Marie 1 & 2 sometime later.

[@Nibbles37]

Easily my favorite Tool song. Top 5 all time for sure. The 3 songs mixed together is sheer brilliance but if I had to pick one it's Pt. 2.

[@jasonsalter65]

@@TheCharismaticVoice I think reacting to Judith then Wings for Marie 1 & 2 is a great idea because of the lyrical contrast of the songs.

[@eccofabio]

Also "In Loving Memory" and "Watch Over You" by Alter Bridge deal with similar topics (as in the death of a parent or a loved one) and both are really good and meaningful. The live acoustic version of "Watch Over You" from the album "Live in Amsterdam" in particular is very powerful and heartfelt, so I would defintely recommend giving it a listen.

[@silentwhisperstudios7808]

One of my favorite bands of all time. The musicianship is of the charts. Every one of them , totally amazing!!

[@heketsu87]

Should try "Hope leaves" or "Windowpane" from Opeth, also maybe something from Porcupine Tree like "Arriving somewhere, not here"

[@thibeauclaes2526]

Damn I really need to wait another day to watch this 😅 so glad you're reacting to my favourite band, thanks!

[@chuckdorado9737]

Opeth is like my fave band for the last 15 years! It would be fun to see your reaction to Opeth's ''Benighted''... one of their best ballads!

[@Bobbias]

Aaaaaaa yes, finally a vocal coach reacting to opeth! Mikael has such an incredible voice. And he's just as good at the clean vocals as he is at the screams.

[@nickgivent3157]

Your reaction when the death kicked in after a few seconds… priceless

[@SliderFury1]

"Listening to Opeth for the first time" Oh I love these 😁

[@jdpbk93]

Mikael has one of the best voices I’ve ever heard

[@sarcana9377]

OH MY GOD... EVERYBODY CALM DOWN, IT'S HAPPENING! ah, i can't wait, it's gonna be amazing. 🥳

[@erikmaronde2244]

They are from Sweden. This is exstatic for a Swede

[@thewildhealer541]

SKÅL

[@girshin]

😂

[@teddybonkers9383]

Just saw these guys for the first time last night in Milwaukee. They are freaking monsters, definite bucket list show I’m forever changed

[@chrisloge5014]

"His growl is incredible. His regular singing is... also good" lol nice save there

[@SJ-ym4yt]

I have to agree. He’s not a BAD singer, but also not great.

[@portishphonic]

he has an amazing timbre and that's what does it for a lot of people, myself included.

[@todd3458]

I think he's amazing. Really seems like he has perfect pitch. His voice quality is so clean and pure. He has a traditionally beautiful voice IMHO.

[@luxtobeyou]

@@todd3458 Yeah I think that's what gets me as well, it's not some fantastical out-of-this-world singing, it's just traditionally a really really nice sounding voice

[@Sputterbug]

nah I adore his singing voice

[@darkcypressactual7585]

Ok, she just might be cutest thing on KZbin lol

[@crhu319]

At 2:26 she is

[@Mizelei2012]

Yeah, yet also sophisticated and compelling.

[@Adrian-ey5xp]

Yep..she is 😜

[@jana731]

She looks at the video impressed by the music but doesn't know what to do with it

[@t.hussain921]

Along with Beth Roars

[@carolina_s_ins]

I usually love your reactions, I always find you so sweet. But this time your shock to when Mikael changes from growling to clear voice is priceless...lol!!! (I love Mikael btw, I love his voice)

[@johanstenborg1465]

For some more interesting time signatures (with insane drumming) and an awesome mix of harsh and clean vocals I suggest the song Sons of Winter and Stars by the band Wintersun.

[@MistinIndia]

I get absolutely mesmerized by your gaze, smile and your overall mannerisms!! Keep up the good work with the channel!

[@juliettemcgee9055]

Omg drunk reaction to Opeth? Kirk, what have you done to our dear Lizzie? 😂

[@kirkmccune7944]

MUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

[@Allhopeforhumanity]

This is the dream!

[@Andy_from_de]

I'll pour myself a single malt out of solidarity for the premiere, even though it will be only 4 in the afternoon...

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

It was supposed to be champagne or a mimosa, but... Kirk made me my favorite gin drink and made it WAY TOO STRONG AGAIN! But I love it. ;-)

[@kirbys1370]

Hi Juliette, Live Chat ended but have a Great Day and Thank You for getting everyone to hit the, "Like," Button! 😄

[@idkanymore9869]

Black by Pearl Jam (MTV UNPLUGGED). Trust me, you’ll love it and maybe even tear up

[@Clinterus]

Your initial reaction to the growling killed me. Great video! Opeth has such great vocal and musical arrangements, it's awesome to see someone who understands that analyze it. Such a killer band.

[@henryruizph.d7161]

The most intelligent band in metal...Miss Peter Lindgren...No one plays those crazy leads the way he did...Martin Lopez was their best drummer...Unfortunately, He had some health & anxiety problems & left the band...I believe Therion with it’s operatic female vocals & Gregorian type chants would be of interest...Without them bands like nightwish would not exist...

[@toni.tapola]

Damn right! *Therion* precedes *Nightwish* undisputably. Fan since *1995!* And I am a Finn, giving _the Swedes_ the credit, for frak's sake!

[@henryruizph.d7161]

@@toni.tapola Yeah man...I wish she would analyze Clavicular Nox live version...She wants opera! They are masters integrating Opera Black Symphonic Metal...It’s a shame dude they will go unnoticed here...They don’t know what they’re missing...

[@Kataxu]

@@henryruizph.d7161 I agree! Do it!!

[@Wishpool]

I miss Peter, Per, and Martin Lopez, too! The 'new' guys are great, but there was something so magical about the previous lineup.

[@mvunit3]

Yes . . . Although I love their newer lineup - THAT lineup (with Per Wiberg as well) was THEE lineup for Opeth personally. And don't forget Martin with his new band "Soen", which is also awesome.

[@lukemadden4434]

Another thing that makes Mikael so great is that he sings and growls amazingly while playing super complicated guitar riffs at the same time

[@matthewharper8933]

The flutes you mention around 24 minutes in are mellotron flute samples. The mellotron was the original 'sampler' keyboard: a key press would run an audio tape over a read head. It's a very clunky instrument, but it gave prog rock bands in the 70s the sound of more instruments (strings, choirs, woodwinds) in addition to their normal instruments. It became one of the most signature sounds of 70s prog rock. (Genesis, King Crimson, and Yes used it a ton.) Opeth started using a lot on mellotron when they started working with Steve Wilson of Porcupine Tree fame for their album Blackwater Park (2001).