Opeth Unveils "§4": A Haunting Chapter from "The Last Will & Testament"
Swedish progressive metal pioneers Opeth have released "§4," a captivating new track from their 14th studio album, "The Last Will & Testament," which dropped on November 22, 2024. This single offers a tantalizing glimpse into the band's ambitious concept album set in the 1920s.
"§4" stands out as a cornerstone of the album, showcasing Opeth's signature blend of heavy riffs and atmospheric passages. The 7-minute epic features guest contributions from Jethro Tull's Ian Anderson, who lends his distinctive flute playing and spoken word elements to the track.The song's dynamic range is particularly noteworthy, moving seamlessly from hushed, introspective moments to explosive, rageful sections complete with Mikael Åkerfeldt's growls. A quirky prog-folk modulation near the middle adds an unexpected twist, highlighting the band's musical versatility.
As the fourth chapter in the album's narrative, "§4" plays a crucial role in unfolding the story of deceit, recrimination, and betrayal centered around a wealthy patriarch's last will and testament. The track's lyrics are described as part of the testament's reading, contributing to the interconnected nature of the album's songs both lyrically and musically.
Co-produced by Mikael Åkerfeldt and Stefan Boman, "§4" benefits from meticulous engineering by Boman, Joe Jones, and Opeth themselves. The mixing, handled at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe Studios in Stockholm, creates a rich sonic landscape that complements the track's thematic complexity.
"§4" is part of "The Last Will & Testament," Opeth's first fully conceptual album since 1999's "Still Life." The album marks a return to death metal elements while maintaining the progressive rock influences of their recent work. It also introduces new drummer Waltteri Väyrynen, whose dynamic performance on "§4" has already garnered praise.With the release of "§4" and the full album, Opeth continues to push the boundaries of progressive metal, offering fans a compelling blend of heavy riffs, intricate compositions, and narrative depth. As the band embarks on their supporting North American tour, "§4" stands as a powerful representation of Opeth's evolving sound and storytelling prowess.
