OPETH - 'The Last Will and Testament' - Album Review

[@MetalNeverDieswithMarkA]

I ❤ your description of the concept of the album. It helped me understand the story for this album. I heard some other KZbinrs describe it but they made it sound confusing. This album is crazy good. Cheers

[@TheMetalTris]

Haha thanks so much Mark! I tried to keep it as simple as I could because it is, in itself a little confusing! There's lots of twists and revelations that happen throughout and it definitely felt like an Agatha Christie meets The Shining kind of vibe to it as well. With a dash of Knives Out and I'm not sure if you've played Hitman but that level where you're in an English stately home, that definitely had a vibe too haha! Thanks for checking out the video and for all of the kind words over the years on not just this but many other videos, really means the world.

[@MacGyver_Lamb]

Opeth is such an interesting band. I spent a lot of time listening to Orchid, My Arms, and Morningrise. Then spent a lot more time with Still Life, Blackwater Park, Damnation, Deliverance, and Ghost Reveries. Watershed felt like a transitional album moving into their prog rock albums. It is a bummer they have received so much negativity evolving their sound. I'm very intrigued by this new album, can't wait to check it out.

[@TheMetalTris]

I think that because they're such an intense listen, with any of their records really, that you really do need to devote a lot of time to them. I remember that I had this period when I think it must have been around 2009 or 2008 where over a summer I just went fully IN on bands and their discographies. Megadeth / Cannibal Corpse / Meshuggah / Death and of course, Opeth. There was something about that kind of truly immersing yourself in their albums that meant they offered so much more I think. Of all of these though, which would you say was your favourite? I think for me it's still going to be Ghost Reveries, I feel like that record really distilled that sense of Opeth - the haunting feeling, the slightly royal atmosphere too and a sense of real reverence. The Last Will and Testament DEFINITELY goes back into the world though! Thanks for checking out the video :)

[@metalsadman]

no love for Pale Communion? Underrated imo

[@HotelHobbies]

Brilliant review mate. Very much looking forward to hearing this one. Great insights here. Love the attention to detail in the review.

[@TheMetalTris]

Thanks ever so much mate! You know what I'm like, when it's something that I'm obsessed with I usually go a little over the top haha - but that's why I make these videos and that's why you write as well! All part of the fun

[@rubaidaallen2764]

Saw Opeth live recently and they played paragraph 1 and 3. It was great hearing the two masterpieces live and I’m really looking forward to hearing the rest of the album in a few weeks. The show was spectacular. Hearing the new drummer was awesome. Growls are back and that’s great but I think the focus needs to be on the musicianship. Everyone is firing on all cylinders. Wow. From the little I’ve heard I’m getting Damnation, Deliverance, Ghost Reveries, In Cauda, The Sorceress and Black Water park vibes. I agree with you. Absolutely incredible band and I encourage everyone to see Opeth on this tour if you get a chance.

[@TheMetalTris]

Oh yeah! Walt is absolutely brilliant as a drummer, I actually interviewed him back when he was with Paradise Lost and he was the sweetest guy, he had just woken up for the show and then got told that he had to do an interview and was totally cool with it. Such a lovely bloke. I'm not surprised that he was so adept behind the kit, I think that you really have to be when it comes to all of the dynamic push and pull that Opeth have. It's pretty mental! Thanks for checking out the video and please do let me know what you think when the record is out!

[@rubaidaallen2764]

@@TheMetalTris Oh that’s so cool that you interviewed Walter. He seems like a super cool guy and what a drummer. I will let you know about the album for sure. Very excited for this one. You’ve got a new subscriber!! 🤘🤘

[@niqlaslundqvist3711]

Jaysus! Can't wait 'til Friday!!! Gonna dedicate the entire weekend for this album!

[@TheMetalTris]

Hell yes! Now Friday's here, please let me know what you think of it!

[@niqlaslundqvist3711]

@@TheMetalTris Head phones weekend is over. I think Opeth has surpassed themselves in creativity in painting the picture. This is 100% straight in to my pocket! There are so many influents on this album that one loses count right up in the second song (section/paragraph). I was doing some carpentry and wore headphones all day long. I must have listened to it like 20 times. Each time "A story never told" ended I was longing for §1 to start. It's a 12 out of 10 for me! Best album I've ever heard in my entire life!

[@parkercrook7828]

Thanks for posting this! Love your channel and your music taste. Opeth is also my all time favorite band. I'm super excited for this album, have yet to see a negative review of it. The addition of growls back in is cool and all, but I'm most excited to see the fluid amalgamation of all their styles. Plus, I think the production on this album compared to Sorceress and ICV is a big improvement.

[@TheMetalTris]

Ahh thanks so much for the kind words my friend! That really means the world. It's always so nice to hear such positive things from people. Definitely makes all of the struggle of editing it and all of that worth it! I think that considering you're a fan of a lot of the different eras of Opeth that you will really enjoy this one. There's so much to give and it's very much like an onion each time you listen to it. What else have you been enjoying this year?

[@parkercrook7828]

​@@TheMetalTris Of course bro. Your content is awesome keep it up. Well BI's album Absolute Elsewhere is great as of this year but I've been on a big kick listening to the band Disillusion. Their 2022 album Ayam is great. Most Opeth fans dig them you should check them out if you've never listen to them. Listen to their 2004 album Back to Times of Splendour it's amazing!

[@thelobster7277]

@@parkercrook7828I second this! Disillusion is amazing. Both newer albums Ayam and The Liberation are 10/10 albums

[@Questformetal]

Already booked ticket to the tour can’t wait to hear the album

[@TheMetalTris]

Hell yeah! That's what we like to hear. I can't wait to see them here in the UK. I haven't missed them since I first saw them on the Heritage tour in Brixton back in 2011. It's been so great to see each of these new eras, I do wish that I might have found them / seen them back in the day but they play so much old stuff that I feel like I've had my fair share these days haha! Thanks for checking out the video :)

[@Questformetal]

@ My first time was on the heritage tour too was cool seeing songs like the throat of winter live

[@WFly101]

ello ma8

[@VIGLounge]

I've been a fan of Opeth ever since I first heard the song Under the Weeping Moon. Blackwater Park is one of my all-time favourite albums, and I've even enjoyed some of their progressive rock output particularly Sorceress. It was a challenge for me to get into In Cauda Venenum, but I'm definitely looking forward to hearing what sounds like the best elements of Opeth's death metal and progressive rock elements along with an interesting concept to boot.

[@TheMetalTris]

Oh man, BWP is one of the best albums of all time and also one of my favourites though I think that Ghost Reveries JUST eclipses it for me. That record was something truly incredible. Were you a fan of some of the earlier Prog Rock stuff like Heritage / Pale Communion and Sorceress. Though admittedly I think that Sorceress is a little more Rock in some places and there's definitely some of that as well!

[@VIGLounge]

@TheMetalTris I enjoyed most of Pale Communion, but Sorceress is where it all clicked for me.

[@swiftla]

great explanation of the story, thankyou. This is the first Opeth album ive listened to, and its blown my mind!

[@TheMetalTris]

No problem! Glad that I could elaborate it a little and make things a little easier to understand. It took me a little minute to truly get my head around because of how twisty it is haha! Are you enjoying this one so far? You’ve just opened up Pandora’s box haha! If you want recommendations just let me know :)

[@YanniBG]

Great review, bro! Can't wait to get the album on vinyl.

[@TheMetalTris]

Thanks so much for the kind words my friend! It's going to be great, which variant did you order out of curiosity?

[@YanniBG]

@@TheMetalTris The Silver one. :)

[@emperoredu8136]

Can´t wait to hear it!

[@TheMetalTris]

Hell yeah! Thanks so much for checking out the video, I hope you enjoyed it!

[@SimonTB_27]

yeah dude! enjoyed the review

[@TheMetalTris]

Thanks so much my friend! Always appreciate your support and I think that this one will be a big one in people’s calendars for Prog / Metal fans too! Let me know what you think of it when you give it a spin for sure!!

[@MoSweiti666]

It's been such a great year. We might also say it's the year of comebacks. JFAC is my AOTY so far and Opeth's new album is my most anticipated. I haven't been this excited for an Opeth album in years. I liked the prog rock era Opeth albums, but this one sounds like an all out album. Opeth experimented with different styles of music throughout the years and this album might be the result of 30 years of experimentation. Great review as always, Tris!! I'm so hyped for this album!

[@TheMetalTris]

Thanks so much my friend!! It's a great record and one that I think you will be really, really stoked with. Especially with the JFAC comparison I think that this really is the year of the comeback. There's something special when a band that you've loved comes back and just shows us all how it's done right?! Thanks so much for checking out the video :)

[@adamstarkey7185]

Feared the worst when I saw your face in that thumbnail haha. Thought it was suggesting you weren't a fan of the album, very glad that's not the case! Can't wait to hear it now. Great review again dude.

[@TheMetalTris]

Hey there Adam! Hahah the power of the thumbnail! In all honesty, I just didn't really know what to do for it this time. A lot of the time I don't tbh. I'm glad that people are being positive for the most part and all of the reviews that I'm seeing are echoing similar feelings. You're in for a real treat my friend!

[@adamstarkey7185]

@TheMetalTris Over a week later and I still can't take it all in hahah it's their most busy (for want of a better word) album in a long time, there's so much going on and I love that, it'll definitely help with its longevity. Very interested to see your aoty list now as I assumed nothing would come close to blood incantation for you but Opeth have thrown us a curveball.

[@RobertGraefeMusic]

oh boy, pretty psyched for this one. thanks for the review! always enjoy listening to you talking about music :)

[@TheMetalTris]

Hey there Robert! I always enjoy chatting with you about it in the comments as well, thank you so much for your support all throughout these years. It really does mean the world and makes putting the videos together so worth it when people genuinely enjoy it :) You'll have to let me know what you think of it!

[@ickoriss]

Great review, man! Beyond stoked to hear the record. Definitely going to be a contender for my AOTY.

[@TheMetalTris]

Hell yeah! It came in and absolutely bulldozed my albums of the year, ruthlessly haha - I hope you enjoy it just as much as I did :) Thanks as ever for commenting and hanging out my friend

[@edchigliak2844]

I've been really looking forward to hearing the album. I'm now more excited for it after your glowing review. Thanks Tris.

[@TheMetalTris]

My pleasure! They really are one of my all time favourite bands so I am really excited to see what everyone says when this record is released. It's absolutely amazing and I think that it's going to be this and something else duking it out for my album of the year position!

[@edchigliak2844]

@@TheMetalTris I look forward to your annual end of year top albums videos.

[@GMHG777]

Saw them 2x 3 weeks ago in NYC and DC, and I've seen thme 16x total since 2003/Deliverance, bets they've sounded possibly ever, no hyperbole !! They were heavy and tight as a nuns butthole... Bets of all Mike sounds better than he's sounded in years on the death vox no doubt about it. Also, Walteri seems to have lit a bit of an intensity fire on the live front, loved Lopez' unique style and felt no one could replace that, enter Axe who was incredible then he "disappears", and I figure no way can they find an equal to his style, creative swing, and intensity, enter Walteri and MIND BLOWN, the kid is a beast and is more than equal to the task of handling the old material... Stoked to get my vinyl early next week hopefully !!! Great review, wish I'd gotten a promo for my channel, weird I didn't hmm...

[@TheMetalTris]

Excellent! Sounds like they are absolutely brilliant, I saw them at Bloodstock earlier this year and they were fantastic. Walt in particular was really tight and nailed the Metal sections of the bands sound. Let me know what you think of the record when you hear it and thanks so much for checking out the video!

[@HypnoChode]

We are SO fucking back! Great review as always

[@TheMetalTris]

Hell yeah!!! Couldn't agree more, thanks so much for the kind words. I know you've been here for a long time so really appreciate you

[@BrandonM.N]

Cannot wait to spin this tomorrow! Stoked to see the 10/10 👀

[@TheMetalTris]

Hell yes!! What do you think of it my man?

[@BrandonM.N]

@ after 3 days of solid listens…this is amazing! 9/10 for me 👌

[@Owenator26]

I tried listening to this album twice and passed out both times cause I was so tired from work. I actually got proper sleep last night so I'm going to give a good amount of listens today. From what I heard I think I got as far as track 4 or 5 but sounds fantastic. Blending the old with the new. I'm a huge Opeth fan especially all their albums from the 2000's era. I still think for me personally Ghost Reveries is the best they've ever done the way they blend the heavy moments to these beautiful clean moments is flawless and the transitions from track to track are great. I've always gravitated more towards Opeth's cleaner melodic sound like the Damnation album but can still appreciate the heavier moments as well

[@TheMetalTris]

I definitely agree with the statement of Ghost Reveries being the best record they have ever done. I think that it's my favourite personally because of when I first discovered them. I do also feel like this record does have some moments of Damnation and Deliverance about it too. It's a great combination of all of their different vibes throughout the year I think! Thanks for checking out the review and I would love to know what you think of it now that it's been out for a little bit?

[@drummerjosh2112]

Great review! I feel the same way!

[@TheMetalTris]

Thanks so much for checking out the video and so glad that you enjoyed the review as well. I'm curious to see what your favourite track might have been?

[@nunosilvapereira]

Great review. Thanks for the video

[@TheMetalTris]

Thanks ever so much for the kind words my friend! Really appreciate it and thanks for checking the video out. What else have you been enjoying this year?

[@nunosilvapereira]

@@TheMetalTris Chelsea Wolfe, Zeal & Ardor and Better Lovers :)

[@nunosilvapereira]

@ Chelsea Wolfe and zeal and ardor

[@TheMetalTris]

@@nunosilvapereira Oh awesome! Those are three great records though I have to say that Chelsea Wolfe is definitely one of my favourites of the year. The kind of trip hop jazzy elements to her sound on this one is just great, similar in a way to the new Oranssi Pazuzu record if you think about it!

[@nunosilvapereira]

@@TheMetalTris True that was part of what I liked on both records :)

[@VampireJack10]

Definitely the best thing they've done in years (and I'm a big fan of stuff like Sorceress) - goes to show there's still fuel in the tank. It's a 10 out of 10 for me. Brilliant!

[@TheMetalTris]

I think so too! The great thing for me though with this record is that you can hear the influence of those latter Prog Rock albums coming through. There's the darkness and grandiose feel of Pale Communion but then that kind of proper RIFFING of Sorceress, especially on track 2. In Cauda Venenum's storytelling and twistyness I think is also on display here too and those quiet moments of out there Jazz from Heritage are on here too. It's just like a retrospective of all that they have done pre and post Heritage I think!

[@lostplanet809]

Your favorite track on this record?

[@TheMetalTris]

That's a good question... I think that it might be Paragraph 4 or maybe A Story Never Told. The tricky thing is that the way that the record works is more cinematic and I think really lends itself to be more of a one track album listen you know? What about you, now that it's out there, what do you think?

[@helenhunt5414]

Looking forward to this one, my AOTY first place is already crowded, and if Opeth releases a masterpiece it will be a five-headed AOTY dragon as a winner!! And I thought that having two bands sharing the first place last year was a lot 😅 2024 is just so generous in terms of amazing releases!!

[@TheMetalTris]

Haha I know what you mean! There’s been a hell of a lot of great releases this year though I have to say that it seems to have all arrived in Sep / Oct / Nov this year! I guess that’s just often the way right?! Thanks for checking out the video!

[@ChrisLT]

I've been dying to hear this album. Saw them last month on the original release date, and the delay's been unbearable.

[@TheMetalTris]

Oh man! I bet that must have sucked but still, did they play a lot of the new material out there in the states? At least you had Tribulation who were playing their new record as well right? I think that this one is going to shake a lot of Album of The Year's and I really hope that it does incredibly well for the band too!

[@ChrisLT]

@@TheMetalTris Yep, Tribulation was killer. And Opeth only played the two singles, Paragraphs 1 and 3, so the rest of the record is still a mystery!

[@TheMetalTris]

@@ChrisLT Oh awesome! What did they sound like played live, must have been the first time that they debuted them right?

[@ChrisLT]

@@TheMetalTris Incredible, I believe it was the opening night of the tour, as Mikael kept talking about bring nervous and playing this stuff for the first time. I have a short on my channel of Leper Affinity, though I filmed so much that I should just make a supercut of the show, lol. I've seen them plenty of times and this might be the best live incarnation they've ever had.

[@rubaidaallen2764]

They were great. I saw them a few weeks ago. Incredible 👏👏👏👏

[@kendallfella]

Great to hear you really rate this one - I have it on pre-order so looking forward to digging into it. I'm currently really digging Cemetery Skyline - have you heard that yet?

[@TheMetalTris]

Oh brilliant!! I think you’ll really enjoy it mate. Especially as I know that you’re into some of the more progressive stuff this will definitely be more interesting for sure. It works well as both a record to listen to but also as a big concept based record that you could just sit back and do nothing with as well. Intrigued to see what you think! I have had Cemetery Skyline promos for a while now and I haven’t got round to checking them out, would you recommend them?

[@aka8503]

Very very very very good review.

[@TheMetalTris]

Oh wow! Four very's, that's incredibly kind of you! Thank you so much and I am so glad that you enjoyed the video so much. Now that it's out there, what do you think of the record? Have you had a chance to listen to it all the way through yet?

[@AnEvolvingApe]

Another band that I was OBSESSED with in past years. I'm not intrigued by the storyline for this record but I can't wait to give any Opeth release a proper listen (soaking in a hot epsom salt bath with flickering black candles).

[@TheMetalTris]

Haha hell yeah! That sounds like the perfect kind of way to experience a new Opeth record. I think the record is both great as a concept album but also stood on its own feet too you know? Let me know what you think of it when you get it though!

[@Therionx]

Why does the CD say disc 1 ? Is this a two part album ?

[@shredneck360]

Think cause there is a blu-ray Version of this Album

[@TheMetalTris]

Good question! I’m a LP fella so I don’t know unfortunately!

[@brianc1330]

Few hours away from listening, oh boy I can’t wait! ❤

[@TheMetalTris]

What did you think of the record on your first listen? Were you a fan or not so much?

[@hmetaljustin]

I like that the growls are back, but It's not a make or break thing for me. I enjoy all eras of Opeth.

[@TheMetalTris]

Exactly, I’m the same to be totally honest. I didn’t really want to highlight it too much but I am sure that it will be a talking point for a lot of fans. To me it’s just like the band reaching into their arsenal and pulling something else out, it just works but it’s not shoehorned in, you know? Thanks for checking out the review!

[@Deathstroke-w4p]

What's up brother 🤘🏼 Sushi dude from Portugal Great review as usual Stay safe brother 🤘🏼

[@TheMetalTris]

Sushi dude from Portugal!!! It’s been a minute man. How are you keeping?! Thanks for reaching out again. Are you excited about Opeth? What are some of your favourite records that have come out this year?

[@Deathstroke-w4p]

@TheMetalTris hey dude 🤘🏼 next weekend gonna see cradle of filth there coming to Lisbon I listening to cemetery skyline great band check them out 🤘🏼 stay safe brother 🤘🏼

[@hollowman7669]

Opeth is a cool musical machine!! One of the best and more interesting ones out there…but you really need to listen to Iotunn ”Kinship”. For me, the best progressive metalalbum of 2024, so far 🤘🤘

[@TheMetalTris]

You know what, I just can't get my head around Iotunn's record. It's just not landing with me for some reason. I'm not sure why but will definitely go back and give it another go! Thanks for checking out the video all the same and I hope that you like the Opeth record :)

[@ilves6664]

Hello! I"m a finnish guy and i alskar Opeth. Next saturday i get New Opeth album on c- cassette and i listen a lot. 😊😊😊😊

[@TheMetalTris]

Hell yeah! That's awesome, thank you so much for checking out the video and I hope that you enjoyed it :) Very much appreciate you checking it out and commenting too!

[@lostplanet809]

Do you like LWAT or Absolute Elsewhere by Blood Incantation more?

[@TheMetalTris]

hahaha I have been asking myself the same thing, the simple answer is - I am not sure haha! I do think that it's between both of them for my album of the year though. It really is that tough!! What about you?

[@dekideron5199]

HEEEEYY🏴‍☠️🏴‍☠️⚓️⚓️⛵️⛵️‼️‼️

[@Duckvan79]

Yes Tris can't wait to dive into this 👏🏽

[@TheMetalTris]

Hell yeah! I can't wait to hear what you make of it. It's a brilliant one!

[@Duckvan79]

@TheMetalTris 🫶🏽🤘🏽

[@drums4life80]

Awesome Cant Wait! 🥃🤘🔥

[@TheMetalTris]

Hell yeah!! Glad that you’re stoked and thanks for checking out the video. I do hope I did it justice - let me know what you think of the album when it’s out there on Friday!!

[@biorythmicshifter]

The metal elements have been sorely missed in the last few years. The last few albums were good but they would have been great if they included the complete spectrum of light to dark dynamics they are known for. If I want to hear great pure prog I’ll listen to King Crimson, if I want o hear something King Crimson wouldn’t do like heavy as balls riffing with some brutal vocals I go to Opeth. That’s what separates this band from other great prog bands. That was missing, I’m glad it’s back now. It’s like driving a car that has 5 gears but only using 4 of them. I have high hopes for this album as it’s been much harder to be impressed with music anymore. Everything that can be done seems to have been done and nothing new is being put out there. Surely there are exceptions like the new Blood Incantation or the new Alarum albums. Opeth have the skills and talent to do something great and I’m hoping this scratches that itch for me.

[@TheMetalTris]

Hey there my friend! So what did you think of the album now that it's been out for a little while? Would love to know!

[@brianmorrison2578]

Best damn band walking the planet.

[@TheMetalTris]

I couldn’t agree more. Absolutely one of my all time favourites, Opeth. I really hope you enjoy the record and thanks for checking out the video!

[@jackbrown4697]

How do you hear albums before they even come out?

[@TheMetalTris]

Hey there Jack! Thanks so much for checking out the video, it's hugely appreciated and I hope that you enjoyed it? So, in terms of hearing albums before they are released, long story short is that I get sent out promos ahead of the album's release. PR's or the record label's themselves sometimes will send out watermarked versions of albums that are sometimes downloadable or stream only. All of these are directly traceable to the person who is sent them to prevent leaks etc... Alongside this you'll get a bio / lyrics / artwork etc... everything that has to do with the record basically. These are always sent out in advance to make sure that people who review in magazines / online or on KZbin in this instance, have it before general release for promotional uses. Hope that answered your question my friend and thanks again!

[@jackbrown4697]

@TheMetalTris No worries man. You're a great channel and I always enjoy your videos

[@GreenSmog17]

Been waiting so long for a new album from opeth (especially with growls :). Will be checking this one out for sure. Also will you be reviewing the new linkin park album - from zero? Would be cool to get your opinion on that.

[@TheMetalTris]

Hey there my friend! Oh yeah, I can imagine that a lot of fans are very much back on the band with the return to the darker side of things. Though personally I think that they have always had that kind of darkness to them you know? As for Linking Park, I won't be reviewing that one simply because I just don't have the time but my simple take on it is that it's a great record if you're a fan of the band, it's fantastic to have them back but I don't truly think that it will create any massive new fans but it's just good to have them back and bolstering the world of Rock and Metal even more :)

[@naruvida1]

The world's best band - for time and eternity

[@TheMetalTris]

I couldn't agree more. One of the best bands of all time, their sound is something that on they will ever have and is completely timeless. I hope you enjoyed the review and thank you so much for checking the video out!

[@naruvida1]

@@TheMetalTris I enjoyed the review yes

[@xazmuthx00]

Well, sounds like its going to a great album. But if i dont dig it there is Ubiquity and they carry that old Opeth spirit pretty well

[@TheMetalTris]

There we go! I love that kind of thing. Where even if it might not be your cup of tea, that’s still totally fine. Everyone likes what they like and that’s totally fine. I hope you do enjoy the album all the same though and thanks for checking out the video!

[@Evergrimrecordings]

Opeth are my absolute favorite and I highly doubt my band would even exist if not for these guys. Really hyped for this one.

[@TheMetalTris]

Hell yeah! That's awesome to hear, I hope that it lives up to the expectations that everyone's got for it :)

[@threestringsomg]

The best band around prove it again. Its a phenomenal record. 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤... Oh and i did the same first time listen....by 4am gave up trying to sleep.👍😂

[@TheMetalTris]

Hahaha that's awesome! I love that kind of thing. it just got me so excited that I thought, nah this is going to be too good. I did it recently with the new Dream Theater album as well, just decided to listen to it in the dark with complete concentration and no distractions and it was actually a really cool experience! How do you rate Last Will against their other records? Thanks for checking out the video!

[@SourCastX]

I’m really disappointed in this album… TL:DR version: Nothing about it was memorable at all, all songs are indistinguishable from each other and the growls do not save it from the poor song writing, cheesy lyrics and incoherent structure. The long version of it is: Mikael has lost his touch for writing interesting and timeless riffs, and exploring interesting scales, arpeggios and chords. He’s so set in his ways of playing boring chords that change quickly, shift out of key slightly… or worse yet… Playing scales and arpeggios in unison with the keyboards as a pathetic excuse for a “breakdown”. He just makes it so difficult and frustrating when you’re trying so hard to get into the “new” Opeth, they could be playing a really nice riff, with an insane groove, and you’ve just started getting into it, and Mikael is CONVINCED, that the best thing to do right now is STOP that awesome grove abruptly, and play a stupid, awkward, ascending or descending scale in unison with the keyboards for 30 seconds straight… Then refuse to return to the grove/riff/melody you were enjoying, and instead transition into some super cheesy prog/soft rock tune, with major chords and these long, drawn-out choir style hymn vocals. Previous Opeth records from Heritage to ICV at least had some songs that were immune to this formula, but this is the first album that is absolutely plagued with it, from beginning to end. Almost all the songs have lost their coherence and memorability, I couldn’t tell you the different between Paragraph 2, 5 and 6. The growls don’t save this one at all, and I don’t think the growls were ever the problem with “New” Opeth to begin with… it has and always will be, Mikael’s refusal to embrace the formula of songwriting that he abandoned after Watershed, and his insistence on making this new formula work. When it just doesn’t…

[@MartinvonBargen]

I keep trying to convince some of my metal mates from Newcastle to form an Opeth tribute band called How Pet!

[@TheMetalTris]

Hahaha that would be great! They'd have to cover Wey Aye Arms Your Hearse ;)

[@niqlaslundqvist3711]

Hahaha! That would be great! "Poeth"?

[@dee-taylor]

The first stylistic shift from Opeth was before MAYH, not after. I irks me when folks lump MAYH in with the first two. Might as well be two different bands going from Morningrise to MAYH.

[@TheMetalTris]

You are right to be honest, I just lumped them together so that I wasn't going on about them all the time. I think that Orchid had more folk undertones whereas Morningrise for me is more straight up Black Metal! Then MAYH is more of a combination of the two as they were starting to find their sound I think. Wasn't really intentional just trying to be succinct haha

[@hectorThechilldudeonacouch]

Dropping this one early because you heard it first 😂. This sounds like a soap opera, the story.

[@TheMetalTris]

Nooo how could you say that it sounds like a soap opera! There's so much more of a darkness there and there's definitely that kind of WWI vibe to it. I'm intrigued to see what you think of it dude!

[@hectorThechilldudeonacouch]

@ this are the days of out lives. It will be next week since Opeth did not send me an advance copy.

[@AndDeathForAll82]

Joey Tempest of Europe is on §2

[@TheMetalTris]

You know this was the only thing that I was missing, I completely forgot that Joey Tempest was on this record. I'll definitely be going back and checking 2 our in a little more detail and looking for his vocal part haha

[@AndDeathForAll82]

@ He’s in the background during Ian’s spoken word parts.

[@DesolateSolitude]

OPETH 🇸🇪 Nature, Death, Love, Heartbreak, Sorrow, Seasons, Occultism.

[@TheMetalTris]

One of the best bands of all time right??

[@DesolateSolitude]

@TheMetalTris , Yes indeed sir. Their entire complete discography Sits right next to my entire complete Discography of KATATONIA. I can’t wait to get my hands on The new album. I’m a hardcore Completist. 💿

[@basildog007]

I've always tried to get into this band, since everyone revered them so much, I really tried, but they said "look dude, you can't even play an instrument, you will NEVER get into Opeth, we are AT CAPACITY!!!"... Which I think was rude.

[@TheMetalTris]

Haha well I mean you can always keep trying right?! That’s one of my favourite things to do is to try something at different points and then you might change your mind depending on what you’ve heard / been through at that time. I find that fascinating about music! Thanks for checking out the review though :)

[@stefanburns3797]

Big Opeth fan and I really like the Prog era too, so this isn't coming from a metalhead POV. This album's whole vibe just throws me off.. The spooky/cheesy guitar riffs, the cringe vocal sections that are overly dramatic, the concept, and the song writing.. all just no-go for me. I appreciate the energy and the attempt at making this record but there are moments that make me want to crawl out of my skin from cringe. Why did he think writing and album about inheritance was a good idea? And set in the early 1900s? I feel like I'm watching Knives Out lol

[@TheMetalTris]

Hahaha well that's totally fine dude! I guess, I really loved Knives Out and my wife and I have just started watching Succession as well which I believe was what inspired this album somewhat. Personally I think that it's a great bit of theatrical fun but that's the great thing about music is that it's all individual at the end of the day. No right or wrongs! Curious to know what some of your favourite records this year have been as well?

[@TheSadistNat1on]

I didn't care about the paragraph 1, 2 names..but now if a song is really good on here, the name is such a good way to name it..and theyre all the same name lol kinda sucks but whatever i guess ha

[@jeanfrancozaratemarcial7916]

It´s a concept album you dingus, the paragraphs have to be named... well, paragraphs, since the lyrics are a reading of a last will and testament.

[@TheMetalTris]

I have to say, that it did make it a little trickier to remember whereas when you've got titles it does kind of sign post things a little more but I get why they did the paragraphs to represent the will etc...

[@TheMetalTris]

Play nice now!

[@TheSadistNat1on]

@@jeanfrancozaratemarcial7916 yes, i get that. god u people are so funny on here. it soooo objective saying paragraph 1,2 etc is weirdly different, u fkn dingus. why did u even say anything to me lol. i have Opeth tattd on my arm since day one of being 18. I love em and stating the OBVIOUS weird thing where itll be weird to pinpoint specificness in titling the songs like so, it is weird, the end. shut up dude ha

[@TheSadistNat1on]

@@TheMetalTris ya, i said its kinda weird..kinda cool too..but what i said makes sense, as u pointed out as well..its funny people in youtube comments jus like to take something, make it so negative, and then be negative outwards. makes me want to meet em in person:)

[@jasonalvarez6995]

I gave the whole album 2 listens so far and Idk why but this album was very underwhelming for me. I think their last album was much much better. The only memorable moments for me were the first and last songs.

[@TheMetalTris]

Oh wow really?! I think that this is definitely a tricky listen and it does play into the idea of the concept. Once you kind of get your head around the concept it really does kind of make the music even more enjoyable, at least it did for me but I can understand where you're coming from. Perhaps it might just be one of them that needs a little more time, you know? Thanks for checking out the video all the same though!

[@stuartraybould2574]

I'm worried. I love Ghost Reveries and Watershed. The so called prog rock albums, a style and no longer progressive at all in the real sense, are OK, I still enjoy them but this worries me. Ghost Reveries and Watershed already merged the styles well, so why go back. If this is another amalgamation of all they have done, have they run out of ideas? Is this the last great Opeth album? Only time will tell, for now I'll be buying this but I'm very worried about the future of Opeth. All great bands run out of fuel eventually, is this the end of interesting Opeth? Have we now already seen all they can do? I've got a bad feeling the answer to that is Yes, I hope I'm wrong.

[@TheMetalTris]

I think people need to not take everything so literally, in all honesty, I think that if you have enjoyed their Prog Rock / Metal and all between material then you'll really love this. It's definitely got its own voice and the story as well really does wonders. I don't think that we're looking at the last great Opeth album either, let me know what you think when it's out there and thanks for checking out the video as well!

[@stuartraybould2574]

@@TheMetalTris I'm looking forward to it, I do hope I'm wrong as I love Opeth and want them to continue at the same top quality level.

[@bahoalternate]

im opeth fan but this is really boring and poor album. a lot of noise but no emotions. nothing 10/10 about it

[@TheMetalTris]

Oh really?! See I don't see it like that but then again I really do love a concept album and for me there's a hell of a lot of stuff here that really reflects the concept of the overall record. So many musical twists and turns and it's a record that I feel really warrants its full attention when it's being listened to. It's tricky but I think that perseverance is perhaps the key here.

[@bahadirozer5044]

it doesnt work for me. mood is too goofy and all over the place, growls have no gravity, it's like disney opeth

[@TheMetalTris]

That's fair enough! It's not going to be for everyone and I definitely agree that this is one of their most jumpy records all in all. It doesn't quite sit still all that long at all if you ask me but that is something that I like about it because it reflects that madness of the story in all truth. What would you say has been your favourite release by them? I always find it interesting what people choose as their favourite because their discography is very varied. Which makes me think, I think we can safely say that there's no other record in their discography that sounds like this one right?

[@stefanburns3797]

Yeah its definitely goofy

[@bahadirozer5044]

@@TheMetalTris in cauda had goofy moments but my favourites still life and blackwater park

[@alpinestar6125]

Haven’t bothered with Opeth since Ghost Reveries.

[@rubaidaallen2764]

You’re missing out. Love Ghost Reveries. Everything after that is worth a listen.

[@alpinestar6125]

MAYH is still my favourite Opeth album.

[@TheMetalTris]

How come you haven’t bothered with the band since then my friend? Is it because you just don’t like more of the Prog Rock style of things? Watershed was a great record following that album up and in all honesty I still think that every album they have written has that quintessential Opeth ‘feel’ to it still! Will you listen to this one?

[@kingIgor]

Opeth have always been Prog Metal... The only thing that changed is they went from Extreme Progressive Metal to Traditional Progressive Metal... Would never call them Prog Rock their not a Degressive Metal band... "How they've been able to combine the Metal Era & the Prog Era together" No this statement doesn't make sense... They are still Metal, still Evolving (never really completely going backwards) ... Some elements of Rock are part of Traditional Metal ... Progressive Metal is the Evolution of the Classic Prog Era... New drummer doesn't feel as Unique/Creative/Metal as Martin Lopez & Martin Axenrot did ... Blood Incantation aping Pink Floyd on Absolute Elsewhere is an example of Degressive Metal... (Going backwards in time to what has already been done death is not Progressive)... Yeah its a good album (but thats lame)... Hidden History of the Human Race is a better album (It's Progressive devoid of the Degressive elements)

[@TheMetalTris]

Hey there my friend! I do agree that Opeth have always been progressive, it's a state of mind more than anything to me. I don't get bogged down in the semantics of the definitions of the genre. For me there's definitely been Prog Rock and Prog Metal elements which is what I was mentioning there. I also disagree that BI bringing in moments of Floyd is degressive, I've never heard a Death Metal band fuse Floyd and Tangerine Dream-esque ideas in genres that are on paper complete polar opposites. That for me is why it's progressive. Walt is going to be different from Lopez and Axenrot because it's his first record with the band and he's got a different feel. Anyway, it's all good! I'm not fussed on categorising music, as long as it's good and I enjoy it, that's good enough for me!

[@kingIgor]

​@@TheMetalTris Yeah Cool... but i still feel going backwards in time to what has already been done to death is the opposite of Progressive, quite boring (even if it wasn't Plagiarism) ... The Electronic Music influences are not as worn out yet but Genre Hopping is nothing new ... So "Absolute Elsewhere" is a Degressive Metal album with some Progressive Metal Elements as far as i'm concerned ... My point is every Phase/Album of Opeths has been Progressive Metal (with & without Grows) Semantics are important because were talking about Art & Genres were prejudice can always be a factor, etc ... Hopefully the new drummer grows on me ... (i don't think hes bad, just generic)

[@Diego_Curcino]

For me, after Heritage, Opeth became such a boring band... It's sad how all the songs seem like a pastiche of the same things and super technical musicians, there's nothing that can be called "classic" in the last 4 albums.

[@TheMetalTris]

Really?! I don't think that they became a pastiche, that might be a little bit harsh but I know what you mean in the fact that it was a little more Prog and not quite as mind-blowing as Blackwater Park etc... but still great records just very different. What did you think of this new album, I would love to know!

[@Diego_Curcino]

@@TheMetalTris I didn't like the last album either. And my problem is not the progressive genre. So much so that I love Rush, Pink Floyd and even Enslaved, which goes towards the blackmetal/progressive side. And in Opeth I love the Heritage Album which was already quite progressive, but had songs with a more organic feel for me. (I love songs like I Feel The Dark and Pyre, from the album Heritage), and I even like lighter albums like Damnation (songs like Windowpane and In My Time of Need). So my problem is definitely not being too progressive. I don't know how to explain it, I just have the impression that in the last 4 albums there was no “hit” or song to be left for posterity, to be called the band's classic.

[@themetalpig7613]

I really hope this feels like an evolution of Watershed. I love Opeth and really tried to get into their post Watershed material, but I found it consistently boring as batshit...and I tried numerous times, thinking I was missing something. I wasn't.

[@TheMetalTris]

In all honesty, I would say that this record is the closest to both Watershed and Heritage maybe. There's kind of a combination of it but then equally there are more moments that definitely recall their previous works and also their more modern ideas too. I really do hope that you enjoy it! You'll be in for a treat!

[@TheSadistNat1on]

well i can say, In Cauda..u dont like the other 3, thats that...but try a few times in cauda..itll hit, as if u dont like that, then u dont like old opeth as much as alot of fans, like myself, cuz it is opeth. but u will, In Cauda is truly the dankest outa those 4, and thats why they moved on back to growls and different sound again. they perfected the prog era with in cauda, way darker, deeper, opethier. i even knew that prior to mikael saying it, i do that with bigger stuff too ha i digress. now we get a new era with that perfection and the old death metal perfection combined. woo