Swedish prog legends Opeth are back and better than ever with their latest concept album The Last Will And Testament!
Opening strong, §1 is cinematic to all hell, with a twisted melody that hooks you in from the opening notes, the contrasting vocals and squealing solos are bound to draw attention. §2 fires up quick with harsh vocals taking the forefront, backed by pounding drums that quickly transition in melancholic synths. §3 is where the story starts to flow, the repetitive calling instrumentals flow easily into less intense confessional lyrics, exposing the secrets of the father with operatic grace.
The bass takes the forefront throughout track four, a steady pumping beat that keeps the song intense and gripping, further deepened by the intricate prog drumming that heavily contrast the delicate harp strings, unexpected and very welcome. Coming in at 7:29, the longest track on the album, §5 also takes the place as the funkiest track, with Spanish style guitars that play perfectly off of the bass and a swing drum beat, broken up by low gutterals that give the track a deliciously heavy twist.
The drums continue to shine in track 6, the other instruments just a backing to the incredible rhythm and relentless fills, the underlying synth elements and squealing guitars appealing to all prog lovers whilst the chorusing vocals add an eerie effect. §7 is where the tale starts to wrap up, the final artefacts being bestowed upon the children in spoken form intertwined with electrifying synth elements and steadily climbing instrumentals, elegant yet gaining power with every second. Closing out the album, the final track, A Story Never Told, is melancholic and has an almost peaceful quality to it, the ballad style approach contrasting the rest of the album but working so effectively into the final notes.
Overall, the album is gripping from start to finish, a true testament to the legacy of prog legends and a great listen for fans of the genre.
Tracklist:
1. §1
2. §2
3. §3
4. §4
5. §5
6. §6
7. §7
8. A Story Never Told
Opeth: Facebook
Release Year: 2024
Label: Reigning Phoenix Music
Category: Album
Country: Sweden
Reviewed by Jodie Louise
