HERITAGE

This is just one of those albums that will either loved or hated by Opeth fans for years to come. And that's quite understandable. It's a departure from their usual mix of genre-bending death metal, and the first time they left the "metal" part of the equation out since Damnation. Having said that, I happen to really love the record. Even though there's really no metal here, it rocks fairly hard at times and has some very dark passages reminiscent of their other work. Moreover, the melodies and songs are fantastic. Each one adding it's own little something to the overall listening experience. Mikael A. has not hidden the fact that his love for rare 70's LP's has only grown strong with time. In fact, it's something he's quite proud of. It's also not hard to see that he's also wearing some of the influences from those records on his sleeve here. But rather than diminish this effort, I think it strengthens it. Music should always come from the heart. And there's no lack of heart here.

For those who listened to the single "The Devil's Orchard" and got turned off, my suggestion is to buy the album, listen to it from start to finish, and then form your opinion. Since purchasing, that's the only way i've consumed this record, and can say with confidence that it's the only way to get into this music. All of the songs bring something to the table, so it's hard to pick favorites.

Again, it's hard to argue with fans that are rejecting this record, it's different and anyone who lives for those furious death metal passages will be disappointed. I just think that it's healthy for a band as talented as Opeth to explore new avenues, and here they took the road less traveled, and ended up creating something special.

Highly recommended!!!