STILL LIFE

Beautifully Brutal! Can such a band juxtapose beauty and brutality? Can two contrasts be blended into making a masterpiece? Opeth responds with a resounding roar! Yes Opeth have molded a masterpiece of two contrasting styles. Imagery of bleakness and beauty pervade throughout Still Life. Mikael is one of the most talented vocalists in metal. It is a mystery that he can sing with such a beautiful, soothing voice and in seconds switch to beastly, inhuman growls. (Which are insanely amazing on this album- his growls are by far the most raw and twisted sounding in this album). It is said that he has the voice of heaven and hell. Listen to the Serenity Painted Death vocal, "White Face, hagrid grin. It's a serenity painted death", as you will see how sweet his growls are.

From bluesy guitar solos, melodic riffs, to pulverizing death metal grunge, Still Life has it all. The Moor opens up the album perfectly and takes listeners on a beautiful brutal journey (ha ha). There are some absolutely gorgeous moments as Mikael sings, and haunting moments when he growls (The Moor opening growl is so pleasing). Memorable riffs and melodies are ever present. Wonderful acoustic breaks, a typical Opeth trademark, show up too! Lyrically it tells a love story poetically, but has a bleak ending. It deals with some religious hypocrisy as well. Mikael is a gifted writer and musician (As well as one of the best vocalists!)

This is my favorite Opeth album by far. It is a masterpiece proving that brutal elements can be blended into softer melodies. Five out of five. Thanks Opeth!!!!