Damnation

About

"Damnation" is the seventh studio album by the Swedish progressive metal band Opeth. It was released on 22 April 2003, five months after the companion album "Deliverance", with both records having been written and recorded during the same session. The album was produced by Steven Wilson, marking his final production work with the band, although he later mixed Opeth releases such as "Heritage" and "Pale Communion". Frontman Mikael Åkerfeldt dedicated both "Damnation" and "Deliverance" to his grandmother, who died in a car accident during the recording period. The album represents a significant stylistic departure from Opeth’s earlier work. In contrast to their established death metal sound, "Damnation" features exclusively clean vocal, acoustic and clean electric guitar, and prominent use of Mellotron. Its musical direction draws heavily on 1970s progressive rock, particularly the influence of Camel, and avoids the heavy riffing and fast tempos associated with the band’s previous material. Recording for "Damnation" took place alongside "Deliverance" at Nacksving Studios and Studio Fredman in Sweden. While most of the instrumental work was completed during these session, the vocal recordings for "Damnation" were finalised later. Åkerfeldt travelled to Steven Wilson’s studio in the United Kingdom shortly after attending his grandmother’s funeral to complete the vocal track. "Damnation" received generally positive critical reception upon release. Reviewers noted its departure from extreme metal and its emphasis on melody and atmosphere. Critics from publications including AllMusic, Pitchfork, and Sputnikmusic highlighted the album’s progressive rock orientation and its focus on musicianship and composition. Some reviewers described it as a notable and unexpected entry in the band’s discography, demonstrating versatility and broadening Opeth’s appeal. .

via Last.fm

The Clerk says

Start your shelf to read the full take →