Opeth’s ‘The Last Will And Testament’: A Bold Return to Metal Roots

Opeth‘s New Album: The Last Will And Testament

Opeth’s fourteenth album, The Last Will And Testament, showcases the return of frontman Mikael Åkerfeldt’s death growl. This marks a shift back to their early roots in extreme metal. However, the usage of growls is limited throughout the album.

The album stands out for more than just its heaviness. Åkerfeldt collaborated with Ian Anderson from Jethro Tull and Joey Tempest from Europe. Together, they created a conceptual narrative about a family facing challenges after the loss of their father. The album consists of eight parts, labeled §1 to §7, and an additional song titled A Story Never Told.

Musically, The Last Will And Testament explores diverse sounds. Each song offers a unique experience. §1 oscillates between eerie and intense. §7 transitions from dark atmospheres to beautiful choral sections. A Story Never Told recalls the warm tones of the 1970s, concluding with a notable guitar solo reminiscent of David Gilmour.

Anderson provides sporadic spoken-word sections that expand the story, while Tempest’s contribution is brief. Åkerfeldt’s daughter Mirjam also appears, adding to the album’s uniqueness.

The album requires careful listening to appreciate its depth. It promises to reveal its intricacies over time. Overall, The Last Will And Testament ranks alongside Opeth’s standout albums, such as Still Life and Blackwater Park.