OPETH Names Forthcoming Album “Watershed”

New York, NY: Swedish progressive metal titans Opeth, often credited as being forward thinkers who are a genre of one, are proud to announce Watershed as the title of their forthcoming album, due out on Roadrunner Records on June 3, 2008.

The album, recorded in the band’s native Sweden and produced by frontman/guitarist Mikael Akerfeldt and Jens Bogren, is a masterwork that follows the time-honored Opeth tradition; it’s modern yet timeless, progressive yet paying homage to the sounds of classic rock. Watershed
is truly one of those special records that cycles through a variety of moods, speeds and textures, complete with lots of subtleties and nuances of sound.

Because of its expansive scope, Watershed is destined to land the album atop many “Best of 2008” lists. Album opener “Coil” is a gorgeous acoustic number, featuring local folk vocalist Nathalie Lorichs, while “Heir Apparent” will knock listeners unconscious with its blunt force metal. “Porcelain Heart” is an epic, thanks to its quiet-loud
dynamic structure. Always one to defy the rules, Opeth posits sung vocals over artillery-like blast beats on “The Lotus Eater,” cementing their reputation as innovators and redefiners.

Watershed combines elements of modern metal, prog rock, free jazz and hints of European folk music, all of which come together for a seamless, unique collection of songs that will leave an indelible mark upon all who listen. Watershed is the first Opeth release to feature new guitarist Fredrik Akesson and drummer Martin Axenrot and is the band’s second album for Roadrunner Records. Watershed is the eagerly awaited follow up to 2005’s critically acclaimed Ghost Reveries.

The complete track listing is as follows: “Coil,” “Heir Apparent,” “The Lotus Eater,” “Burden,” “Porcelain Heart,” “Hessian Peel” and “Hex Omega.”

Opeth will hit the road in April with Dream Theater, 3 and Between The Buried And Me.