Opeth – Morningrise (Silver Vinyl)

Opeth’s “Morningrise” is a sprawling monument of progressive metal, a dark and melancholic soundscape built on the foundation of both brutality and beauty. Harsh black metal shrieks intertwine with Mikael Akerfeldt’s increasingly prominent clean vocals, while the guitars churn out a blend of death metal aggression and surprisingly light, almost jazzy flourishes. Acoustic passages offer moments of respite, but the overall atmosphere remains heavy, a testament to the band’s burgeoning mastery of dynamic songwriting. Each of the five extended tracks feels like a journey, taking the listener through crushing riffs, melancholic melodies, and unexpected twists and turns. “Morningrise” is a landmark release, showcasing Opeth’s unique blend of influences and solidifying their place as one of the most innovative metal bands of their generation.