What is Opeth?

Opeth is a Swedish heavy metal band from Stockholm, formed in 1989. The group has been through several personnel changes, including the replacement of every original member. Opeth has consistently incorporated progressive, folk, blues, classical and jazz influences into their usually lengthy compositions, as well as strong influence from black and death metal. Opeth's music has been described as progressive rock, progressive metal, alternative metal and melodic death metal.

History

The band was founded by vocalist and guitarist Mikael Åkerfeldt in 1989. In 1990, bassist Peter Lindgren joined him. The following year, Anders Nordin joined as drummer and Lindgren switched to guitar. Opeth's first release was the 1991 demo tape Garage. This was followed by the 1992 mini-LP Orchid, which gained them their first fan base. Following the mini-LP, Åkerfeldt took over vocal duties while David Isberg joined on vocals and keyboards. Their 1993 full-length debut album Morningrise was released on Candlelight Records. This album marked a change in their sound towards a more progressive style.

Style and Influences

Opeth's music has been described as progressive rock, progressive metal, alternative metal and melodic death metal. The band has also incorporated elements of folk music into their sound. They have been influenced by bands such as Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd. They have also cited influences from classical composers such as Maurice Ravel, J.S. Bach and Igor Stravinsky.

Discography

Opeth has released twelve studio albums throughout their career: Orchid (1995), Morningrise (1996), My Arms, Your Hearse (1998), Still Life (1999), Blackwater Park (2001), Deliverance (2002), Damnation (2003), Ghost Reveries (2005), Watershed(2008), Heritage(2011), Pale Communion(2014) andSorceress (2016). They have also released a number of live albums and compilations.