After having had the first four days of December celebrating the triumphs of Fallujah, Misery Index, Behemoth and Cannibal Corpse its time that we get a little bit more progressive. The second the announcement was made that Akerfeldt and co would be returning this year, one album of the year title already got an identity. Following on from the complete side line of Heritage which even for the most seasoned of Opeth fans seemed to be a little too much to handle. The band announced their return with the hallowed Pale Communion.
Opeth – Pale Communion
Pale Communion itself is the latest manifestation of Opeth. With many metal heads being stuck in their stead fast ways and not embracing the record simply because its not the music they’re used to, this ignorance has caused a serious divide between the Opeth camps. This release see’s the band dial it back slightly, many of the song structures on their previous outing were essentially rough sketches with much of the album seemingly like a psychedelic jam, which don’t get me wrong is no bad thing. A testament to the creative potential that Opeth as a band have. However their eleventh release is a lot more structured of an affair, seeing Akerfeldts vocals reach new heights the harmonies in the album are highlighted on the fantastic “River” that contains some real vintage Deep Purple style soloing, of course adding Akesson’s diminished touch.
The album as a whole shows Opeth rebirthing that quintessential seventies prog sound and they do so fantastically. With sprawling ten minute pieces in the shape of “Moon Above, Sun Below” and the haunting “Voice Of Treason” moving into one of the most emotive Opeth songs and definitely a taste of what is to come the poignant “Faith In Others“. The whispering guitar lines of album opener “Eternal Rains Will Come” immediately sets the tone for the record, Individually the songs work well on their own but when tied together the continuity of Pale Communion creates a gloomy alluring atmosphere.
What makes this a surefire album of the year though is the evolution of the album. Upon first listen to songs are interesting enough but where the genius is the fact that with each listen the record acts as an onion. Revealing more and more be it a subtle keyboard piece you may not have heard or a vocal melody that slipped passed. Pale Communion will always reveal something from the aural nooks and crannies from every listen. Be you a seasoned Opeth lover or a new comer with fresh ears, Pale Communion is fantastic, unique and one of the most emotive pieces of music. Easily one of the best records Opeth have ever written.
