OPETH Present Official "§1" Band Performance Video

Swedish 2025 Grammi winners OPETH are pleased to unveil a full-on band performance video for "§1." The track is taken from their current success album The Last Will And Testament (released on November 22, 2024 through Moderbolaget / Reigning Phoenix Music), which was highly praised by press and fans alike and saw frontman Mikael Åkerfeldt return to growling vocal territory for the first time in 16 years. Their new material has additionally been warmly welcomed during their ongoing world tour, which is why the video arrives right in time as their touring cycle commences at the legendary Sweden Rock Festival today.
 
Åkerfeldt states: “So here’s a video (of sorts) for your ‘enjoyment.’ We had requests left, right & centre to do one of them measly ‘lyric videos’ or ‘visualizers’ for ‘content.’ Now, right there are three words I despise! I’ve made it clear in our circle of trust that we shouldn’t use the word ‘content’ even if that’s exactly what we’re working on. We’re not some goddamn influencers, now are we? So can we please settle on the old-fashioned word ‘video’ without meddling with modern online lingo? And a video is what it really is. A performance video, no less. We figured it’s a bit more happening to look at (should you decide to do so) than a lyric video. ‘§1’ is the opener on “The Last Will And Testament.” A good song. I like it! The video looks good. As good as it can look when involving 5 middle-aged, slightly hungover geezers miming along to something. We shot it in some industrial area in Birmingham (UK) on the latest Euro tour. Everyone (well, the band and crew) were quite eager to get out of there as we had dinner planned at a fancy curry house locally. Much thanks to Ash Pears and ASH TV, who were really professional (ie: quick!) and made the whole experience rather easy on us. Hope you dig it, people!”
 
Watch the video Below:
Order/stream The Last Will And Testament: https://opeth.rpm.link/lastwillPR

OPETH’s 14th album was written by Åkerfeldt, with lyrics conferred with Klara Rönnqvist Fors (THE HEARD, ex-CRUCIFIED BARBARA). The Last Will And Testament was co-produced by Åkerfeldt and Stefan Boman (GHOST, THE HELLACOPTERS), engineered by Boman, Joe Jones (KILLING JOKE, ROBERT PLANT), and OPETH, with Boman, Åkerfeldt, and the rest of the band mixing at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe Studios in Stockholm. The strings on The Last Will And Testament were arranged by Åkerfeldt and Dave Stewart (EGG, KHAN) and conducted by Stewart at Angel Studios in London. Not one to miss a beat, visual artist Travis Smith returns to the fold, crafting his 11th cover, a haunting ‘photograph’ reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's infamous Overlook Hotel photograph. Miles Showell (ABBA, QUEEN) also revisits mastering and vinyl lacquer cutting at Abbey Road Studios in London.
 
Åkerfeldt rolls out the red carpet for storied flutist and JETHRO TULL leader Ian Anderson. Not only do Anderson’s signature notes fly on "§4" and "§7," he narrates on "§1," "§2," "§4," and "§7." Joining Anderson, EUROPE’s Joey Tempest lends a backing vocal hand on "§2," while Åkerfeldt's youngest daughter, Mirjam Åkerfeldt, is the disembodied voice in "§1."
 
The Last Will And Testament is gripping from start to finish, jaw-dropping inside and out, representing some of OPETH’s finest material to date. Just as OPETH welcomed many into its distressed arms over the years, the Swedes again deliver on the promise that great music always tells a compelling story - this time with growls we had not heard since the 2008 Watershed.
 
More from “The Last Will And Testament”:
"§1 [Radio Edit]" OFFICIAL AUDIO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwDrIelXirY
"§1 [Radio Edit]" OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZmFQE3TlPA
"§3" OFFICIAL AUDIO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ph5o3xpJ_8
"§4" OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UenLRXki8KA
The Last Will And Testament ALBUM COMMENTARY:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKldtkUJocw
 
Additional drum, guitar and bass play-through videos can be found at https://www.youtube.com/@opeth.

OPETH are:
Mikael Åkerfeldt | vocals, guitars
Fredrik Åkesson | guitars, backing vocals
Martín Méndez | bass
Waltteri Väyrynen | drums, percussion
Joakim Svalberg | keys, backing vocals
 
More on OPETH:
opeth.com | Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | RPM

OPETH Wins Best Hard Rock & Metal Award at Swedish Grammis for ‘The Last Will & Testament’

Acclaimed progressive metal legends OPETH have been honored with the prestigious Best Hard Rock & Metal award at this year’s Swedish Grammis. This achievement marks yet another milestone in the band’s illustrious career, further cementing their legacy as one of Sweden’s most influential and celebrated musical acts.

The award follows the release of ‘The Last Will & Testament,' the band’s fourteenth studio album, which was officially released on November 22 via Reigning Phoenix Music / Moderbolaget.

Order ‘The Last Will & Testament’: HERE

Opeth's fourteenth album was written by Åkerfeldt, with lyrics conferred with Klara Rönnqvist Fors (The Heard, ex-Crucified Barbara). ‘The Last Will & Testament’ was co-produced by Åkerfeldt and Stefan Boman (Ghost, The Hellacopters), engineered by Boman, Joe Jones (Killing Joke, Robert Plant), and Opeth, with Boman, Åkerfeldt, and the rest of Opeth mixing at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe Studios in Stockholm. The strings on ‘The Last Will & Testament’ were arranged by Åkerfeldt and returning prog friend Dave Stewart (Egg, Khan) and conducted by Stewart at Angel Studios in London. Not one to miss a beat, visual artist Travis Smith returns to the fold, crafting his 11th cover, a haunting "photograph" reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's infamous "Overlook Hotel" photograph. Miles Showell (ABBA, Queen) also revisits mastering and vinyl lacquer cutting at Abbey Road Studios in London.

Åkerfeldt rolls out the red carpet for storied flautist and Jethro Tull main man Ian Anderson. Not only do Anderson's signature notes fly on "§4" and "§7", he narrates on "§1", "§2", "§4", and "§7". Joining Anderson, Europe's Joey Tempest lends a backing vocal hand on "§2”, while Åkerfeldt's youngest daughter, Mirjam Åkerfeldt, is the disembodied voice in "§1".

‘The Last Will & Testament ‘is gripping from start to finish, jaw-dropping inside and out, representing some of Opeth's finest material to date. Just as Opeth welcomed many into its distressed arms over the years, the Swedes again deliver on the promise that great music always tells a compelling story—this time with growls.

After three decades of dazzling the world, Opeth have made their most daring creative leap yet. The Last Will & Testament is a progressive and dramatic triumph, and yet more proof that expecting the unexpected is the only way forward for fans of Sweden’s finest.

“It’s a restless record for me,” concludes Åkerfeldt. “It’s an explosion of ideas, which I like. It’s a bit shorter and snappier. But I definitely didn’t want to rehash anything. The only thing that has come back is some of those death metal screams, but the mindset is still much more forward looking. In typical Opeth fashion, it’s not a direct record that you understand and that you love or hate right away. It takes time and if you put that time into it, you might like it… or hate it! It feels like it was written on a whim. Which it was, in a way! I hear things on this album and think, where the fuck did that come from?”

Lineup:

Mikael Åkerfeldt – Vocals, guitars

Fredrik Åkesson – Guitars, backing vocals

Martin Mendez – Bass guitar

Waltteri Väyrynen – Drums and percussion

Joakim Svalberg – Keyboards, backing vocals

Special Guests:

Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull) - spoken word (tracks 1, 2, 4, 7) // flute (tracks 4, 7)

Joey Tempest (Europe) - backing vocals (track 2)

Mirjam Åkerfeldt - spoken word (track 1)

All Music and Lyrics written by Mikael Åkerfeldt

Lyrical concept by Mikael Åkerfeldt, dramatic consultation by Klara Rönnqvist Fors

Produced by Mikael Åkerfeldt

Co-produced by Opeth and Stefan Boman

Engineered by Stefan Boman, Joe Jones and Opeth

Mixing by Stefan Boman and Mikael Åkerfeldt and Opeth at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe, Stockholm, Sweden

Mastering and vinyl lacquer cut by Miles Showell at Abbey Road studios, London, UK

Strings conducted by Dave Stewart at Angel Studios, London, UK

Strings arrangement by Mikael Åkerfeldt and Dave Stewart

Drum technicalities by Kit Cunningham

Artwork by Travis Smith with directions from Mikael Åkerfeldt

Biography by Dom Lawson

OPETH's Critically-Acclaimed New Album Charts Worldwide

OPETH’s highly anticipated and critically acclaimed 14th studio album 'The Last Will & Testament,' was officially released on November 22 via Reigning Phoenix Music / Moderbolaget and is now charting internationally.

The current positions can be found below:

OPETH’s highly anticipated and critically acclaimed 14th studio album 'The Last Will & Testament,' was officially released on November 22 via Reigning Phoenix Music / Moderbolaget and is now charting internationally.

The current positions can be found below:

Order ‘The Last Will & Testament’: HERE

Opeth's fourteenth album was written by Åkerfeldt, with lyrics conferred with Klara Rönnqvist Fors (The Heard, ex-Crucified Barbara). ‘The Last Will & Testament’ was co-produced by Åkerfeldt and Stefan Boman (Ghost, The Hellacopters), engineered by Boman, Joe Jones (Killing Joke, Robert Plant), and Opeth, with Boman, Åkerfeldt, and the rest of Opeth mixing at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe Studios in Stockholm. The strings on ‘The Last Will & Testament’ were arranged by Åkerfeldt and returning prog friend Dave Stewart (Egg, Khan) and conducted by Stewart at Angel Studios in London. Not one to miss a beat, visual artist Travis Smith returns to the fold, crafting his 11th cover, a haunting "photograph" reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's infamous "Overlook Hotel" photograph. Miles Showell (ABBA, Queen) also revisits mastering and vinyl lacquer cutting at Abbey Road Studios in London.

Åkerfeldt rolls out the red carpet for storied flautist and Jethro Tull main man Ian Anderson. Not only do Anderson's signature notes fly on "§4" and "§7", he narrates on "§1", "§2", "§4", and "§7". Joining Anderson, Europe's Joey Tempest lends a backing vocal hand on "§2”, while Åkerfeldt's youngest daughter, Mirjam Åkerfeldt, is the disembodied voice in "§1".

‘The Last Will & Testament ‘is gripping from start to finish, jaw-dropping inside and out, representing some of Opeth's finest material to date. Just as Opeth welcomed many into its distressed arms over the years, the Swedes again deliver on the promise that great music always tells a compelling story—this time with growls.

Moreover, OPETH has landed the the cover story for Decibel Magazine's current December 2024issue! The in-depth interview with the band was conducted by journalist Chris Dick while the photos were shot by Ester Segarra. The issue can be found HERE.

Lineup:

Mikael Åkerfeldt – Vocals, guitars

Fredrik Åkesson – Guitars, backing vocals

Martin Mendez – Bass guitar

Waltteri Väyrynen – Drums and percussion

Joakim Svalberg – Keyboards, backing vocals

Special Guests:

Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull) - spoken word (tracks 1, 2, 4, 7) // flute (tracks 4, 7)

Joey Tempest (Europe) - backing vocals (track 2)

Mirjam Åkerfeldt - spoken word (track 1)

All Music and Lyrics written by Mikael Åkerfeldt

Lyrical concept by Mikael Åkerfeldt, dramatic consultation by Klara Rönnqvist Fors

Produced by Mikael Åkerfeldt

Co-produced by Opeth and Stefan Boman

Engineered by Stefan Boman, Joe Jones and Opeth

Mixing by Stefan Boman and Mikael Åkerfeldt and Opeth at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe, Stockholm, Sweden

Mastering and vinyl lacquer cut by Miles Showell at Abbey Road studios, London, UK

Strings conducted by Dave Stewart at Angel Studios, London, UK

Strings arrangement by Mikael Åkerfeldt and Dave Stewart

Drum technicalities by Kit Cunningham

Artwork by Travis Smith with directions from Mikael Åkerfeldt

Biography by Dom Lawson

About Reigning Phoenix Music

Founded in 2023, Reigning Phoenix Music is truly the 100% independently owned vision of music industry professional Gerardo Martinez and avionics and tech entrepreneur, Sven Bogner. The blueprint is to continue to help heavy metal, extreme, hard, and heavy music thrive by partnering with an array of well-established acts, new talent, and iconic artists, by offering best services and practices in the industry. But most important is to help the artists amplify their art and talent to a winning formula for success!

More on RPM:

reigningphoenixmusic.com | Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | YouTube

OPETH Streams Visualizers for Song, "§4 ," New Album 'The Last Will & Testament' Out Today

The wait is finally over and OPETH's highly anticipated 14th studio album, 'The Last Will & Testament,' is now available worldwide today, November 22, via Moderbolaget // Reigning Phoenix Music! To celebrate this release, the Swedish prog legends are now sharing a visualizer for the song "§4," which can be found below.

Opeth frontman Mikael Åkerfeldt comments on the track, "'§4' is an oddball song, just written by instinct. I'm not a clever guy when it comes to writing music. People call us 'thinking man's metal,' I think that's laughable. I listen to music from so many different genres, it's impossible to me to stick to one genre. I find the idea boring to try and belong somewhere, we're a bit all over the place, and I think this song shows our diversity. For '§4' I was inspired by something called 'twelve note music,' which I think is a classical term, where you're supposed to play twelve notes und you cannot repeat a note twice. I heard some of that music by classical pianists playing, and it sounds wicked, it sounds evil, it sounds really strange - so that inspired the initial guitar theme. There's a melodrome theme in the beginning, it just sounds odd, like it doesn't fit in, almost like a free-form jazz solo or something like that. But it quickly kind of lands in an almost traditional metal theme with a common response type death metal vocal that has a stereo double-tracked normal vocal response. 

"I can't remember what happened during the writing process, but I reached a point where I just stopped and felt, 'ok, time for something strange!' We ended up with a flute solo by Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull, which was kind of an accident in a way, because I asked him to do a narration, not flute. As he was doing the spoken word bits, he asked me 'do you need a flute solo?' I was like, 'yes, please!‘, while I didn't really have a part for a flute solo! I had to shuffle through the songs quickly in my head before he would change his mind. I had him on the hook, of course I was gonna find a piece! So, he played almost like a common response type flute solo in '§4.'

"This is a great song with the ending piece being one of the more evil pieces of music I've written in a long time: it sounds really menacing, sick almost!“

Order ‘The Last Will & Testament’: HERE

Opeth's fourteenth album was written by Åkerfeldt, with lyrics conferred with Klara Rönnqvist Fors (The Heard, ex-Crucified Barbara). ‘The Last Will & Testament’ was co-produced by Åkerfeldt and Stefan Boman (Ghost, The Hellacopters), engineered by Boman, Joe Jones (Killing Joke, Robert Plant), and Opeth, with Boman, Åkerfeldt, and the rest of Opeth mixing at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe Studios in Stockholm. The strings on ‘The Last Will & Testament’ were arranged by Åkerfeldt and returning prog friend Dave Stewart (Egg, Khan) and conducted by Stewart at Angel Studios in London. Not one to miss a beat, visual artist Travis Smith returns to the fold, crafting his 11th cover, a haunting "photograph" reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's infamous "Overlook Hotel" photograph. Miles Showell (ABBA, Queen) also revisits mastering and vinyl lacquer cutting at Abbey Road Studios in London.

Åkerfeldt rolls out the red carpet for storied flautist and Jethro Tull main man Ian Anderson. Not only do Anderson's signature notes fly on "§4" and "§7", he narrates on "§1", "§2", "§4", and "§7". Joining Anderson, Europe's Joey Tempest lends a backing vocal hand on "§2”, while Åkerfeldt's youngest daughter, Mirjam Åkerfeldt, is the disembodied voice in "§1".

‘The Last Will & Testament ‘is gripping from start to finish, jaw-dropping inside and out, representing some of Opeth's finest material to date. Just as Opeth welcomed many into its distressed arms over the years, the Swedes again deliver on the promise that great music always tells a compelling story—this time with growls.

Moreover, OPETH has landed the the cover story for Decibel Magazine's current December 2024issue! The in-depth interview with the band was conducted by journalist Chris Dick while the photos were shot by Ester Segarra. The issue can be found HERE.

After three decades of dazzling the world, Opeth have made their most daring creative leap yet. The Last Will & Testament is a progressive and dramatic triumph, and yet more proof that expecting the unexpected is the only way forward for fans of Sweden’s finest.

“It’s a restless record for me,” concludes Åkerfeldt. “It’s an explosion of ideas, which I like. It’s a bit shorter and snappier. But I definitely didn’t want to rehash anything. The only thing that has come back is some of those death metal screams, but the mindset is still much more forward looking. In typical Opeth fashion, it’s not a direct record that you understand and that you love or hate right away. It takes time and if you put that time into it, you might like it… or hate it! It feels like it was written on a whim. Which it was, in a way! I hear things on this album and think, where the fuck did that come from?”

Lineup:

Mikael Åkerfeldt – Vocals, guitars

Fredrik Åkesson – Guitars, backing vocals

Martin Mendez – Bass guitar

Waltteri Väyrynen – Drums and percussion

Joakim Svalberg – Keyboards, backing vocals

Special Guests:

Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull) - spoken word (tracks 1, 2, 4, 7) // flute (tracks 4, 7)

Joey Tempest (Europe) - backing vocals (track 2)

Mirjam Åkerfeldt - spoken word (track 1)

All Music and Lyrics written by Mikael Åkerfeldt

Lyrical concept by Mikael Åkerfeldt, dramatic consultation by Klara Rönnqvist Fors

Produced by Mikael Åkerfeldt

Co-produced by Opeth and Stefan Boman

Engineered by Stefan Boman, Joe Jones and Opeth

Mixing by Stefan Boman and Mikael Åkerfeldt and Opeth at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe, Stockholm, Sweden

Mastering and vinyl lacquer cut by Miles Showell at Abbey Road studios, London, UK

Strings conducted by Dave Stewart at Angel Studios, London, UK

Strings arrangement by Mikael Åkerfeldt and Dave Stewart

Drum technicalities by Kit Cunningham

Artwork by Travis Smith with directions from Mikael Åkerfeldt

Biography by Dom Lawson

About Reigning Phoenix Music

Founded in 2023, Reigning Phoenix Music is truly the 100% independently owned vision of music industry professional Gerardo Martinez and avionics and tech entrepreneur, Sven Bogner. The blueprint is to continue to help heavy metal, extreme, hard, and heavy music thrive by partnering with an array of well-established acts, new talent, and iconic artists, by offering best services and practices in the industry. But most important is to help the artists amplify their art and talent to a winning formula for success!

More on RPM:

reigningphoenixmusic.com | Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | YouTube

OPETH Announces Postponement of New Album, 'The Last Will and Testament,' Due on November 22, 2024

Swedish prog legends OPETH announce that the release of their 14th studio album, 'The Last Will & Testament,' has been postponed to November 22, 2024 due to unforeseen delays in the manufacturing process.

OPETH’s frontman Mikael Åkerfeldt comments: 

"We strive to deliver the highest quality product possible, and to achieve that, we need a bit more time to ensure the final release meets our standards. We understand this may come as a disappointment, but we sincerely appreciate your patience and continued support. We can't wait to share this new music with you, and we are confident it will be worth the wait.

Following the critical acclaim of their first single "§1", the band just released second single "§3" - Listen Below.

Pre-Order ‘The Last Will & Testament’: HERE

Opeth's fourteenth album was written by Åkerfeldt, with lyrics conferred with Klara Rönnqvist Fors (The Heard, ex-Crucified Barbara). ‘The Last Will & Testament’ was co-produced by Åkerfeldt and Stefan Boman (Ghost, The Hellacopters), engineered by Boman, Joe Jones (Killing Joke, Robert Plant), and Opeth, with Boman, Åkerfeldt, and the rest of Opeth mixing at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe Studios in Stockholm. The strings on ‘The Last Will & Testament’ were arranged by Åkerfeldt and returning prog friend Dave Stewart (Egg, Khan) and conducted by Stewart at Angel Studios in London. Not one to miss a beat, visual artist Travis Smith returns to the fold, crafting his 11th cover, a haunting "photograph" reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's infamous "Overlook Hotel" photograph. Miles Showell (ABBA, Queen) also revisits mastering and vinyl lacquer cutting at Abbey Road Studios in London.

Åkerfeldt rolls out the red carpet for storied flautist and Jethro Tull main man Ian Anderson. Not only do Anderson's signature notes fly on "§4" and "§7", he narrates on "§1", "§2", "§4", and "§7". Joining Anderson, Europe's Joey Tempest lends a backing vocal hand on "§2”, while Åkerfeldt's youngest daughter, Mirjam Åkerfeldt, is the disembodied voice in "§1".

‘The Last Will & Testament ‘is gripping from start to finish, jaw-dropping inside and out, representing some of Opeth's finest material to date. Just as Opeth welcomed many into its distressed arms over the years, the Swedes again deliver on the promise that great music always tells a compelling story—this time with growls.

In addition, OPETH will be celebrating the release of 'The Last Will and Testament' with headlining tours in North America, the UK, and Europe! The full itinerary can be found below while tickets are now on sale HERE.

GET TICKETS HERE

OPETH North American Tour Dates (w/ TRIBULATION):

10/11: Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave / Eagles Club

10/12: Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theater & Ballroom

10/14: Toronto, ON @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre

10/15: Montréal, QC @ L’Olympia

10/16: Worcester, MA @ Palladium

10/18: Brooklyn, NY @ Kings Theatre

10/19: Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE

10/20: Washington, DC @ Warner Theatre

10/22: Atlanta, GA @ Tabernacle

10/23: New Orleans, LA @ Fillmore New Orleans

10/24: Austin, TX @ Emo’s Austin

10/25: Dallas, TX @ Majestic Theatre

10/27: Denver, CO @ Mission Ballroom

10/29: Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren

10/30: Los Angeles, CA @ YouTube Theater

10/31: San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield

Lineup:

Mikael Åkerfeldt – Vocals, guitars

Fredrik Åkesson – Guitars, backing vocals

Martin Mendez – Bass guitar

Waltteri Väyrynen – Drums and percussion

Joakim Svalberg – Keyboards, backing vocals

Special Guests:

Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull) - spoken word (tracks 1, 2, 4, 7) // flute (tracks 4, 7)

Joey Tempest (Europe) - backing vocals (track 2)

Mirjam Åkerfeldt - spoken word (track 1)

All Music and Lyrics written by Mikael Åkerfeldt

Lyrical concept by Mikael Åkerfeldt, dramatic consultation by Klara Rönnqvist Fors

Produced by Mikael Åkerfeldt

Co-produced by Opeth and Stefan Boman

Engineered by Stefan Boman, Joe Jones and Opeth

Mixing by Stefan Boman and Mikael Åkerfeldt and Opeth at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe, Stockholm, Sweden

Mastering and vinyl lacquer cut by Miles Showell at Abbey Road studios, London, UK

Strings conducted by Dave Stewart at Angel Studios, London, UK

Strings arrangement by Mikael Åkerfeldt and Dave Stewart

Drum technicalities by Kit Cunningham

Artwork by Travis Smith with directions from Mikael Åkerfeldt

Biography by Dom Lawson

About Reigning Phoenix Music

Founded in 2023, Reigning Phoenix Music is truly the 100% independently owned vision of music industry professional Gerardo Martinez and avionics and tech entrepreneur, Sven Bogner. The blueprint is to continue to help heavy metal, extreme, hard, and heavy music thrive by partnering with an array of well-established acts, new talent, and iconic artists, by offering best services and practices in the industry. But most important is to help the artists amplify their art and talent to a winning formula for success!

More on RPM:

reigningphoenixmusic.com | Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | YouTube

OPETH Announces New Album 'The Last Will & Testament,', Shares First Single, "§1"

Swedish prog legends OPETH are now pleased to reveal that their 14th studio album, 'The Last Will & Testament’, is set for release on October 11, 2024 via via Reigning Phoenix Music / Moderbolaget! In celebration, the band is now sharing the first single from the offering, "§1" available on all DSPs HERE. Prior to today's worldwide announcement, the album was teased yesterday, exclusively for attendees at Wacken Open Air 2024 in conjunction with the band's performance at the illustrious festival.

In addition to OPETH's previously announced North American headlining tour, which will take place in October 2024, the band is also now revealing an extensive European run for February 2025! OPETH is offering a special bundle for fans who pre-order 'The Last Will & Testament'. Starting today, August 2 at 10:00 A.M. CEST, fans who pre-order the album will receive a special ticket pre-sale code for advanced tickets to the European tour! The offer will end on Tuesday, August 6 at 15:00 CEST, so don't sleep on this limited opportunity!

General sales will start on Friday, August 9 at 10:00 A.M. local time.

Pre-order the album HERE to get access to the pre-sale for the EU tour

Tickets for North America are now available HERE 

Opeth vocalist/guitarist Mikael Åkerfeldt admits: "I love this record. I have to say it (write it). Maybe I’m proud even? There are some familiar ingredients in there I suppose. Most of our music has sprung from the same source, so I guess it’s not much of a shocker if it’s going to sound like 'us’. I’m a bit in awe of what we did with “The Last Will and Testament”. It feels like a dream. There is some 'coherence' and 'songwriting skills' I hope, but what do I know? I tend to favour the 'strange' over the 'obvious,' but I feel like I’m in the minority, and that’s fine. So…fair warning! Don’t expect an instant rush (as per usual), but if you do “get it” (have you got it yet?) right away, that’s ok too!"

'The Last Will & Testament' is a concept album set in the post-World War I era, unfolding the story of a wealthy, conservative patriarch whose last will and testament reveals shocking family secrets. The narrative weaves through the patriarch's confessions, the reactions of his twin children, and the mysterious presence of a polio-ridden girl who the family have taken care of. The album begins with the reading of the father's will in his mansion. Among those in attendance is a young girl, who, despite being an orphan and polio-ridden, has been raised by the family. Her presence at the will reading raises suspicions and questions among the twins.

Regarding the record's creation, Åkerfeldt adds: "This is the first record with Walt on drums. Seeing and hearing him record his bits was otherworldly and what went through my head was something like: How can a human being play this stuff? The older cats (myself, Mendez, Fred and Jocke) did our bits in due time. We did them well (I like to think) and the alcohol concentration in our blood was mostly quite low as the red light was on. We’re professionals, you see! Rockfield Studios treated us well and we love that place! Stefan Boman recorded and mixed it all (CAPTURED it on TAPE… kind of…). Miles Showell did the master at Abbey Road Studios and then we (myself and Stefan) took him for a curry in Covent Garden. Travis Smith has done this odd-masterpiece-artwork that put 'clothes' on the music. All in all, we hope we’ve put together a nice little morsel of information for you to nibble on when it’s raining out. Thank you for your time. Thank you for reading. Thank you for listening. Thank you for giving us a respectable past. I’ll thank you for our future in the actual future, OK?"

Pre-Order ‘The Last Will & Testament’: HERE

Opeth's fourteenth album was written by Åkerfeldt, with lyrics conferred with Klara Rönnqvist Fors (The Heard, ex-Crucified Barbara). ‘The Last Will & Testament’ was co-produced by Åkerfeldt and Stefan Boman (Ghost, The Hellacopters), engineered by Boman, Joe Jones (Killing Joke, Robert Plant), and Opeth, with Boman, Åkerfeldt, and the rest of Opeth mixing at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe Studios in Stockholm. The strings on ‘The Last Will & Testament’ were arranged by Åkerfeldt and returning prog friend Dave Stewart (Egg, Khan) and conducted by Stewart at Angel Studios in London. Not one to miss a beat, visual artist Travis Smith returns to the fold, crafting his 11th cover, a haunting "photograph" reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's infamous "Overlook Hotel" photograph. Miles Showell (ABBA, Queen) also revisits mastering and vinyl lacquer cutting at Abbey Road Studios in London.

Åkerfeldt rolls out the red carpet for storied flautist and Jethro Tull main man Ian Anderson. Not only do Anderson's signature notes fly on "§4" and "§7", he narrates on "§1", "§2", "§4", and "§7". Joining Anderson, Europe's Joey Tempest lends a backing vocal hand on "§2”, while Åkerfeldt's youngest daughter, Mirjam Åkerfeldt, is the disembodied voice in "§1".

‘The Last Will & Testament ‘is gripping from start to finish, jaw-dropping inside and out, representing some of Opeth's finest material to date. Just as Opeth welcomed many into its distressed arms over the years, the Swedes again deliver on the promise that great music always tells a compelling story—this time with growls.

GET TICKETS HERE

OPETH North American Tour Dates (w/ TRIBULATION):

10/11: Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave / Eagles Club

10/12: Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theater & Ballroom

10/14: Toronto, ON @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre

10/15: Montréal, QC @ L’Olympia

10/16: Worcester, MA @ Palladium

10/18: Brooklyn, NY @ Kings Theatre

10/19: Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE

10/20: Washington, DC @ Warner Theatre

10/22: Atlanta, GA @ Tabernacle

10/23: New Orleans, LA @ Fillmore New Orleans

10/24: Austin, TX @ Emo’s Austin

10/25: Dallas, TX @ Majestic Theatre

10/27: Denver, CO @ Mission Ballroom

10/29: Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren

10/30: Los Angeles, CA @ YouTube Theater

10/31: San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield

Lineup:

Mikael Åkerfeldt – Vocals, guitars

Fredrik Åkesson – Guitars, backing vocals

Martin Mendez – Bass guitar

Waltteri Väyrynen – Drums and percussion

Joakim Svalberg – Keyboards, backing vocals

Special Guests:

Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull) - spoken word (tracks 1, 2, 4, 7) // flute (tracks 4, 7)

Joey Tempest (Europe) - backing vocals (track 2)

Mirjam Åkerfeldt - spoken word (track 1)

All Music and Lyrics written by Mikael Åkerfeldt

Lyrical concept by Mikael Åkerfeldt, dramatic consultation by Klara Rönnqvist Fors

Produced by Mikael Åkerfeldt

Co-produced by Opeth and Stefan Boman

Engineered by Stefan Boman, Joe Jones and Opeth

Mixing by Stefan Boman and Mikael Åkerfeldt and Opeth at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe, Stockholm, Sweden

Mastering and vinyl lacquer cut by Miles Showell at Abbey Road studios, London, UK

Strings conducted by Dave Stewart at Angel Studios, London, UK

Strings arrangement by Mikael Åkerfeldt and Dave Stewart

Drum technicalities by Kit Cunningham

Artwork by Travis Smith with directions from Mikael Åkerfeldt

Biography by Dom Lawson

About Reigning Phoenix Music

Founded in 2023, Reigning Phoenix Music is truly the 100% independently owned vision of music industry professional Gerardo Martinez and avionics and tech entrepreneur, Sven Bogner. The blueprint is to continue to help heavy metal, extreme, hard, and heavy music thrive by partnering with an array of well-established acts, new talent, and iconic artists, by offering best services and practices in the industry. But most important is to help the artists amplify their art and talent to a winning formula for success!

More on RPM:

reigningphoenixmusic.com | Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | YouTube

TRIBULATION Announces New Album, 'Sub Rosa in Æternum,' Unveils Lyric Video for New Single, “Tainted Skies”

Swedish gothic metal maestros TRIBULATION is pleased to reveal that their sixth studio album, 'Sub Rosa in Æternum,' is due on November 1, 2024 via Century Media Records, following up the band's award-winning 2021 album, 'Where the Gloom Becomes Sound.' In celebration, the band is now unveiling the second single from the offering, "Tainted Skies," along with a lyric video. The clip was created by Costin Chioreanu at Twilight13media and can be watched below.

Stream the new single HERE.

Guitarist Adam Zaars comments, "The old and the new. 'Tainted Skies' is a fairly straight forward Tribulation song written by Joseph [Tholl]. He gives the whole sound his own spin and takes us through murky depths and shadowy skies, from death to new life."

On 'Sub Rosa in Æternum,' Tribulation conjure new beast: Part psychological horror of Italian cinema, part gaunt British goth, and part Art Deco opulence, 'Sub Rosa In Æternum' is a blazing torch upon a cloudy, skeleton sky. Stay tuned for more info!

In addition, TRIBULATION will be supporting legendary progressive metal pioneers Opeth on their upcoming North America tour, which will kick off on October 11 in Milwaukee, WI and conclude on Halloween night in San Francisco, CA. this October 2024 with their last show on Halloween in San Francisco. The full itinerary can be found below while the tickets can be found HERE.

GET TICKETS HERE

TRIBULATION North American Tour Dates (Supporting OPETH):

10/11: Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave / Eagles Club

10/12: Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theater & Ballroom

10/14: Toronto, ON @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre

10/15: Montréal, QC @ L’Olympia

10/16: Worcester, MA @ Palladium

10/18: Brooklyn, NY @ Kings Theatre

10/19: Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE

10/20: Washington, DC @ Warner Theatre

10/22: Atlanta, GA @ Tabernacle

10/23: New Orleans, LA @ Fillmore New Orleans

10/24: Austin, TX @ Emo’s Austin

10/25: Dallas, TX @ Majestic Theatre

10/27: Denver, CO @ Mission Ballroom

10/29: Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren

10/30: Los Angeles, CA @ YouTube Theater

10/31: San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield

Tribulation is known for their unique blend of gothic and death metal. Formed in 2005, the band consists of Johannes Andersson (Vocals/Bass), Adam Zaars (Guitar), Joseph Tholl (Guitar) and Oscar Leander (Drums). They have released several captivating albums during their career and are renowned for their theatrical live performances. "Saturn Coming Down" marks the first release of the band after their 2023 EP “Hamartia”, which has achieved critical acclaim after Tribulation’s award-winning last studio album “Where the Gloom Becomes Sound” in 2021.

Lineup:

Johannes Andersson (Vocals/Bass)

Adam Zaars (Guitar)

Joseph Tholl (Guitar)

Oscar Leander (Drums)

Links:

Official Website

Facebook

Instagram

Apple Music

Spotify

OPETH Announces North American Headlining Tour

OPETH is pleased to announce their return to North America! The Swedish prog legends will be embarking on a headlining run starting in Milwaukee on October 11 and will trek through the continent until the final stop in San Francisco, CA on October 31. Tickets will go on sale to the general public this Friday, April 26 @ 10:00 A.M. local time. Tickets can be found HERE.

For fans who cannot wait for the ticket launch, various pre-sales via Spotify, Knotfest, and Blabbermouth are starting today, April 24 @ 2:00 P.M. EDT!

OPETH North American Tour Dates:

10/11: Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave / Eagles Club

10/12: Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theater & Ballroom

10/14: Toronto, ON @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre

10/15: Montréal, QC @ L’Olympia

10/16: Worcester, MA @ Palladium

10/18: Brooklyn, NY @ Kings Theatre

10/19: Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE

10/20: Washington, DC @ Warner Theatre

10/22: Atlanta, GA @ Tabernacle

10/23: New Orleans, LA @ Fillmore New Orleans

10/24: Austin, TX @ Emo’s Austin

10/25: Dallas, TX @ Majestic Theatre

10/27: Denver, CO @ Mission Ballroom

10/29: Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren

10/30: Los Angeles, CA @ YouTube Theater

10/31: San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield

Green Carnation Opening for Opeth

Green Carnation are carefully plotting their next step. The Norwegian progressive metal band are beginning the preparations for the follow up to Leaves of Yesteryear, which was considered among the best albums of 2020 by Heavy Music HQ, Angry Metal Guy and Metal Injection.

Their new album promises to be another dark and poetic chapter in a story that's now lasted more than three decades. In the meantime, the band is honored to announce that they are opening for Opeth!

"This year, we are concentrating on writing and recording new music", vocalist Kjetil Nordhus says. "But when an invite comes along to join Opeth for a concert, you don't refuse!"

Green Carnation will join the mighty Swedes Summer Sojournin Copenhagen on June 26 for a sold-out show at Amager Bio. 

"We are looking forward to the show in Copenhagen" Kjetil continues. "We hope to meet up with fans both old and new".

Praise for Green Carnation

"If you don't know Green Carnation, you're doing yourself a disservice" - Angry Metal Guy

"Titans of the craft...a vertiable tour de force" - Metal Injection

"Totally prog; unashamedly Scandinavian; and a wonderful return" - Ghost Cult Mag

"Arose from psychedelia only to forge an entire culture" - Sonic Perspectives

"One of metal's most unique, original acts" - Outburn

After almost 10 years of total silence, Norwegian prog/avant garde metal act Green Carnation announced their comeback to the international metal scene for the 15th anniversary of their cult classic Light of Day, Day of Darkness in 2016. And after a very successful comeback year with festival appearances and special shows both in Europe and North America, the band announced their permanent return to the scene.

Green Carnation from Kristiansand, Norway, was founded as early as 1990, but after founding member Tchort joined legends-to-be Emperor, for their Darkside Eclipse album, and continued in Satyricon and Einherjer, the band was shut down until their debut album, A Journey To The End Of The Night in 2000.

Big parts of the line-up were changed until the bands epic Light of Day, Day of Darkness was released in 2001, and the band changed in a more rock’ish direction with A Blessing in Disguise (2003) and The Quiet Offspring (2005), before the stripped-down Acoustic Verseswas released in 2006.The band is alsoknown for having released on of the more spectacular concert DVDs, recorded in the mountains in Norway, under a 30 meters high water dam, and with audience from all over the world. A Night Under The Dam was also released in 2006. After the successful comeback in 2016, the band continued to do festivals and special shows throughout 2017 and 2018, before releasing their album first in 14 years, Leaves of Yesteryear, in May 2020. The new album was recorded in DUB Studio, with producer Endre Kirkesola, which also produced their classic, Light of Day, Day of Darkness, and having since worked with bands like Abbath, In Vain and Solefald.

Throughout and after COVID-19, Green Carnation have toured Northern Europe, and played festivals, but have concentrated on writing and recording new music. News about the next release is forthcoming.
 

Genre: Progressive Rock

Original recording line-up:
Tchort  - Guitars (acoustic)
Stein Roger Sordal - Bass, Vocals (backing), E-bow, Vocals (lead)
Kjetil Nordhus - Vocals (lead), Vocals (backing)
Michael S. Krumins - Guitars (acoustic), Theremin
Tommy Jackson - Drums, Percussion
Kenneth Silden - Piano, Mellotron
Bjørn Harstad - Guitars

Line-up:
Vocals - Kjetil Nordhus
Guitars - Terje Vik Schei
Guitars - Bjørn Harstad
Bass - Stein Roger Sordal
Keyboards - Kenneth Silden
Drums - Jonathan Alejandro Perez

Original recording Studio:
Engineered and mixed at Brown Sound Studios, except track 4, mixed at Jailhouse Studios.
Violins, viola and cello recorded at Jailhouse Studios.
Drums recorded at Dub Studios.
Mastered at Lynor.

Remaster: Maor Appelbaum Mastering // Maor Appelbaum

Cover Art: Lukasz Jaszak
 

Photo: Jørund Pedersen

Links:
www.greencarnationmusic.com
www.facebook.com/greencarnationnorway
www.instagram.com/green2carnation/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2vfEaTADayEniT7xbG-XCA

Order: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/GreenCarnationShop

Stream: https://linktr.ee/greencarnation

Formats: CD digipak, vinyl black and coloured

AENIMUS RELEASE VISUALIZER FOR THEIR COVER OF OPETH''S "DEMON OF THE FALL"

AENIMUS comments, "When Nuclear Blast approached us with the idea of covering a classic metal song, we honestly had a hard time deciding what song or even artist we would cover. We went back and forth for months before one of our label reps brought up the idea of paying tribute to OPETH. This idea felt immediately right with all of us. Opeth is one of Greg's favorite bands and they are one of the pioneers of progressive death metal, so it was an easy yes. We decided to go with one of their older songs, 'Demon of the Fall' because not only is it a great song that is heavy and really fit the vibes we were going for with our follow up EP Sacrificial but we felt with today's modern production we could really transform this song into something amazing. When reimagining this track, we wanted to keep that classic OPETH feel to it but give it a more modern AENIMUS sound so we focused in on adding a full orchestration behind the song and Brian even added a nice arpeggio section over one of the instrumental breaks. We are super happy how it all turned out and hope that the legends in OPETH get a chance to hear it, and maybe even dig it too.

Purchase/listen to "Demon Of The Fall" here: https://bfan.link/Aenimus-DemonOfTheFall

Dreamcatcher is a concept album that draws inspiration from horror novels and movies, such as It, The Shining, Hannibal Lecter, and The Dead Zone. The album was recorded by the band while mixing and mastering were handled by Jamie King (BTBAM, THE CONTORTIONIST). The album features guest appearances from Mike Semesky (INTERVALS, THE HAARP MACHINE), Jamie Hanks (I DECLARE WAR), Brian James (ex- FALLUJAH) Sims Cashion and Leonardo Guzman.

Order your copy of Dreamcatcher here: nblast.de/AenimusDreamcatcher

OPETH ANNOUNCES FALL 2021 CO-HEADLINE TOUR WITH MASTODON

BAND TO RELEASE "IN CAUDA VENENUM (CONNOISSEUR EDITION)" ON NOV 19TH

Sweden's iconic rock/metal titans OPETH will return to North America this fall for a tour with fellow masters of prog-metal MASTODON. Announced today, the bands will embark with special opening guests ZEAL & ARDOR on a two-week tour kicking off in Asheville, NC on November 16th and wrapping in Denver, CO on December 5th.

Tickets go onsale Friday September 17 at 10am local time. Check out the full confirmed itinerary below, including a handful of festival dates. Visit www.opeth.com/tour-dates for ticket and tour information.

Commenting on the impending tour, vocalist/guitarist Mikael Åkerfeldt states:

”Well, we’re about to start up the ole machine again after our longest (involuntary) break ever. We’ve kept rather silent during all this time. We haven’t done much press or public appearances. No streaming shows and of course, no ”real” shows. We’ve kept to ourselves, biding our time. Coming back to North America will be a treat, even if there are conflicting emotions. We’ve become used to being out of sight. But playing live is such an integral part of being in this band. We need to get back out there to see if we still have it in us. Stepping out on a stage after all this time will surely be a nerve-wrecking experience, but we count on you to help us out. We’ll be traveling with familiar faces however. Together with our friends in Mastodon. But also with new acquaintances, Zeal & Ardor. Going on tour during these times means serious restrictions of course. It will be strange in so many ways. But once we’re up there we trust the power of music will take over and make us feel secure. We collectively look forward to this (with a slight touch of pure fear).

To wrap this up: Won’t see you in the pub (unfortunately), but we sincerely hope to see you through the limelight. For us, this coming tour is already memorable. Odd!"

Following the release of their latest, critically acclaimed record "In Cauda Venenum," OPETH's touring was unfortunately cut short due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Two years later, the band will make their long awaited return to North American stages in support of the record and the upcoming release of "In Cauda Venenum (Connoisseur Edition)," which features a remastered version of the album transferred to magnetic tape and cut directly to vinyl with three unreleased bonus tracks.

"In Cauda Venenum (Connoisseur Edition)" is available as a separate 2LP (180g) version in Swedish and English that includes a 16-page booklet illustrated by internationally renowned Travis Smith. In addition, you can get a limited premium boxset featuring both versions, a 60x60cm poster, as well as an exclusive EP with three previously unreleased Opeth songs in two languages: “Pöbeln” / “The Mob”, “Cirkelns Riktning” / “Width of a Circle” as well as “Frihet & Tyranni” / “Freedom & Tyranny.”

OPETH's "In Cauda Venenum (Connoisseur Edition)" will be available on November 19th in these formats:
2LP (black, 180g) - Swedish version in gatefold with 16p booklet
2LP (black, 180g) - English version in gatefold with 16p booklet
Boxset (black or clear vinyl) incl. both versions, poster and exclusive 6-track EP in sleeve

Åkerfeldt adds:
"During the pandemic we’ve put together a vinyl remaster ”connoisseur” edition of our latest album, 'In Cauda Venenum' that features 3 (6 really, if you count both versions of each song) previously unreleased tracks from the sessions. These tracks have a high obscurity factor, but I’d like to think they are high quality. Quite different from the rest of the songs on the album, but quality nonetheless. Everything put together in a nice package, for your pleasure."

About Opeth:
Sweden’s pioneers of death and progressive metal, OPETH, formed in 1989 and have been widely recognized as one of the genre’s most innovative and influential bands over the course of 13 landmark albums. Rolling Stone says, “Opeth have been one of the bands who have defined the sound of modern metal. From their 1995 debut, Orchid, a striking amalgam of [Mikael] Åkerfeldt’s growled vocals and lush, progressive song structures, through 2001 extreme-prog masterpiece Blackwater Park – which landed at number 55 on Rolling Stone‘s 100 Greatest Metal Albums list and at 28 on our 50 Greatest Prog Rock Albums tally – Opeth have demonstrated a willingness to color outside arbitrary subgenre lines.” The band’s latest record, 2019’s In Cauda Venenum, continued their lauded evolution, delving further into the far reaches of the progosphere and was highly praised on End of Year Lists by the likes of Decibel, Loudwire, Consequence and Rolling Stone. Released in both Swedish and English languages, the record features a number of standout tracks like “Hjärtat Vet Vad Handen Gör" / "Heart In Hand" and “Svekets Prins” / “Dignity” among others.

About Mastodon:
GRAMMY® Award-winning band MASTODON continue to chart their own course through their highly successful music career. Founded in Atlanta, GA during 2000 by Troy Sanders (bass/vocals), Brent Hinds (guitar/vocals), Bill Kelliher (guitar) and Brann Dailor (drums/vocals), the group have unleashed a series of influential albums. Rolling Stone notably cited 2004’s Leviathan on its coveted The 100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time. Meanwhile, Crack The Skye closed out 2009 on year-end lists by everyone from TIME to SPIN. They delivered three consecutive Top 10 debuts on the Billboard Top 200 with The Hunter [2011], Once More ‘Round the Sun [2014], and Emperor of Sand [2017]. “Sultan’s Curse” notably garnered their first GRAMMY® Award in the category of Best Metal Performance. Mastodon have been nominated for GRAMMY’S® five times to date. The group commemorated their late manager Nick John with their 2019 take on “Stairway To Heaven,” affectionately entitled “Stairway To Nick John.” Initially released for Record Store Day, all proceeds benefit the Hirschberg Foundation For Pancreatic Cancer Research. Their evolution continues later this year, with their ninth full-length offering for Reprise Records produced by David Bottrill [Tool, Rush], HUSHED AND GRIM.