MORNINGRISE

Opeth had perfected their sound by the time they recorded this album. At the time, to combine haungtinly beautiful acoustic work with thunderous guitar riffs was not heard of, and Opeth perfected this unique trait with this album. However, there is not much variety in sound. Besides the difference is guitar riffs, and the acoustic sections are great on this album, but they sound similar. There is not much variety in the arrangement of tracks, too. They all begin heavy, then turn to an acoustic section, then back to heavy, and so on... a bit formulaic if you ask me.

Despite this error, there is still a lot to like about the album. It features the astonishing 20 minute Black Rose Immortal, with a supremely exquisite acoustic section that turns into a great metal riff, one of their most innovative IMO. Mikael Akerfeldt's voice shines on this album. Although it is mostly roars and screams, the clean vocal sections are utterly beautiful, and they reveal the true voice of Akerfeldt. The guitar work is as intricate as ever, and the drumming is adequate for the material; but what surprised the most was the incredible bass work. Among the best the group has had.

Overall, I enjoyed this album. No matter how derivitive or formulaic it may be, there is something for all here IMO. 3.5/5