Opeth – The Last Will and Testament

It’s been tough to write this one. You see, Opeth holds the closest sentimental spot in my heart. I loved everything from Orchid to Watershed with passion. I studied the tracks, played them, and then Opeth changed completely. Although I still enjoyed some albums from the Prog Rock era, they weren’t as ambitious or interesting—nothing the ’70s hadn’t already given us (get mad!). Now, The Last Will and Testament comes with big promises. We all heard that the growls were back, but I couldn’t care less—I wanted the songwriting to return. So, I wasn’t too hopeful after the single; I didn’t want to believe the hype! But let’s see if this is a true return to form or just overhyped by every reviewer site out there.

I’ll say it right away: Last isn’t Ghost Reveries or Blackwater Park. Forget about that; they’ll probably never peak like that again. That said, this is the closest the band has been to its prime in years. Last combines the intensity and creative transitions that made Opeth an institution in our community, while keeping the Prog Rock elements alive and well. It’s the perfect mix of the two styles that, for so long, I couldn’t see how to reconcile (I’m even willing to accept the Jethro Tull flute). So, don’t expect it to be too heavy, but it’s not too chilled either.

I love that the band is writing a proper concept album again—a between-wars scenario where an old patriarch dies, and the family is filled with intrigue about who will get the money (basically a Mexican telenovela, but edgy and spooky). Opeth needed a strong narrative to guide its writing, and it’s nailed it. The musicianship is breathtaking here: complex yet clean drums, guitar and bass work that only Opeth could pull off, and synths and atmospheres that convey both extreme beauty and horror. Oh, and the vocals? Well, many have said it—Mikael has improved tremendously as a vocalist, and it’s never been more obvious than on this album.

So, what are the issues? There are almost none if you’re an Opeth fan. However, I do have my usual two complaints. First, the transitions aren’t as elegant as in the old era, but they’re still interesting. Second, the first half of the album feels stronger; it almost becomes too uplifting and direct for my taste by the end. Just details, you know—so keep your hands off that keyboard! Don’t fight for a band that wouldn’t fight for you, hehe!

It took 20 years for Opeth to return to Death Metal, and I’m happy to say it’s a triumphant return. Even if I’m not head over heels for the album (it’s still not riff-heavy enough!), I can feel it slowly growing on me. I’m ready for another 10 years of intense experimentation—just tone down all that talking in the songs, and I’m here forever!

Label: Reigning Phoenix Records

Release date: 22 November, 2024

Website: http://www.opeth.com/

Country: Sweden

Score: They left us a 4.0/5.0 as inheritance!