GHOST REVERIES

First of all, let me state that no one understands the signifigance of a five star review more than me: this is a rank reserved for albums that stand the test of time as absolute defining moments of their genre. Having said that, I will go on to explain why this record is not only deserving of this rating, but, I believe, will go down as one of the most important albums ever released in the sub-genre of Progressive Metal. Opeth has long been known as one of the bands that has redefined what Prog Metal has been capable of, both musically and thematically. This release raises the already high bar that had been set with the last two, Deliverance and Damnation. Every composition shows growth as a band, writing and chops wise. The sound of the band now is the next natural step in their evolution. The dicotomy of the band as realized by the last two albums has now been fully integrated into one overall sound. The addition of full time keyboardist Per Wiberg is an integral part of this change, pushing the band that once flirted with prog sensibilities into full on prog territory. Throughout the album, the band takes its signature sound, and includes shades of other giants such as TOOL, PINK FLOYD, and LED ZEPPELIN. The writing is impeccable, and the musicianship second to none: every track bristles with its own unique energy, singlehandedly dispelling the myth that Prog Metal is a genre inhabited by DREAM THEATER clones. One issue that certainly must be addressed is the vocals. Be forewarned that "cookie moster" growling does factor in, but on this album more than any other the band has recorded so far, they simply act as an accent to the heavier moments. Mikael has never sung in his "natural" voice more often, and his vocals have never felt so impassioned and, well, natural. In this day and age, it is not often that we can be in the midst of a progressive rock act at the peak of its game: most are older bands seeking to regain lost glory, or newer bands standing on the shoulders of giants and simply reworking an established sound. As I said before , I believe that this album will not only stand the test of time, but will go down in progressive rock history as a genre busting album that provided inspiration for a whole new generation of prog rock artists. This one is certainly an essential, and is deserving of a place in every progressive rock lover's collection.