DAMNATION

First off, I'd like to say a warm "Thank You" to all who have championed this disc. It's proven its worth since its release 3 years ago, and, since then, has given Opeth's fans/detractors a lot to talk about. Well, I, for one, don't see the point in bashing them over something like this. All of us fans knew it was coming. Despite the brutal heaviness of DELIVERANCE and BLACKWATER PARK, where there not many acoustic parts mixed in to offset the headbanging? Yes, there were. This is what I feel is a logical continuation of that.

I read a review way at the top in which someone said that they'd like to hear more "screaming guitar solos or a tasty keyboard solo". I would too, but that does NOT detract from the beauty of the music. Opeth are a band whom I feel has never put individual talent above songwriting and melodic construction(much like 70's Genesis), and that shows here.

"Windowpane" kicks things off with a mellow electric line that leads directly into the first verse. At least 3 instrumental breaks are there to offset everything else. Opeth did me a great favor by putting "In My Time Of Need" as the 2nd track. This is my favorite song, out of the 8 on the disc. Despite the odd delivery of the verse, it's all worth it to hear the chorus. Mikael's in unusually somber voice (which for him is saying something!) as he sings lines like "And I should comtemplate this change to ease the pain...". God...who hurt this man? Someone give him a hug!

The beauty of this music is made manifest by Opeth and their co-producer, Steven Wilson, and the production is crystal clear without sounding digital one iota! That's what I like about it, and one of the reasons it's a 5-star disc to me.