OPETH

"Deliverance"
(Koch/Music For Nations)

A new album by OPETH always seems to be among the most anticipated releases of that year. As soon as the band begins writing new material, people start talking. The buzz generated is impossible to miss. There's a very simple explanation for that phenomenon - OPETH are among the elite. Their unique blend of death metal and progressive rock is beyond comparison. Deliverance, the band's sixth effort, finds them "delivering" the perfect balance between the warrior and the poet. Of course, for those of you already acquainted with this band's music, that should come as no surprise. Opening track "Wreath" fires off with a heaviness reminiscent of the more aggressive moments of the band's first effort - Orchid. The more I listen to this track, the more I see it becoming one of my favorite OPETH songs. They couldn't have found a more appropriate song to set the tone for this album. The euphoria created by "Wreath" never really fades because each successive song leaves an indelible mark in my mind. Try as I might, I really cannot find anything negative to say about Deliverance. The band's song-writing is every bit as magnificent as it ever was, the production is flawless, and the execution of the material is awe-inspiring. No matter which OPETH album is your favorite, you'll find something to enjoy here. If you've been living under a rock for the past 10 years and haven't yet heard this band's music, do yourself a huge favor and pick up Deliverance...unless, of course, you enjoy being a clueless idiot!!!

More from the Online Metal Journal