Review of Opeth’s “Watershed” Hitting the stores in early June, Opeth’s new album is not a complete departure from their stylistic tendencies, but provides a few new approaches to what they’ve been bringing to the Progressive Death Metal scene for the last decade and a half. Some changes that stand out is Akerfeldt’s abrasive vocals on this record that have become even more gutteral. This is offset by his maturation in his singing approach. The opening track also includes a female vocalist. The addition of Martin Axenrot on drums is noticeable in the slight differing of rhythmic approach within the album, exemplified in the opening to Lotus Eater that is accompanied with blast beats- soemthing new to Opeth. The addition of Frederik Thordendal has not changed anything up too much. There’s a bit more shred, but it’s in a tasteful manner and still reflects Opeth’s harmonic approach in a positive manner. An increase in “straight forward” melodies are also presented on the album. Nevertheless, Opeth’s captivating softer work is still apparent, and their heavy aspects are even more-so than ever, and all comes together for an interesting Progressive Death Metal album. May not be their best, but certainly captivating!
May 30th, 2008
Review of Opeth’s “Watershed” Hitting the stores in early June, Opeth’s new album is not a complete departure from their stylistic tendencies, but provides a few new approaches to what they’ve been bringing to the Progressive Death Metal scene for the last decade and a half. Some changes that stand out is Akerfeldt’s abrasive vocals on this record that have become even more gutteral. This is offset by his maturation in his singing approach. The opening track also includes a female vocalist. The addition of Martin Axenrot on drums is noticeable in the slight differing of rhythmic approach within the album, exemplified in the opening to Lotus Eater that is accompanied with blast beats- soemthing new to Opeth. The addition of Frederik Thordendal has not changed anything up too much. There’s a bit more shred, but it’s in a tasteful manner and still reflects Opeth’s harmonic approach in a positive manner. An increase in “straight forward” melodies are also presented on the album. Nevertheless, Opeth’s captivating softer work is still apparent, and their heavy aspects are even more-so than ever, and all comes together for an interesting Progressive Death Metal album. May not be their best, but certainly captivating!