Opeth: Pale Communion

The Opeth of today is and isn't a different band to the one we have so eagerly followed. Yes the death vocals have been forgotten and the metal has been diluted but there is still no mistaking who you are listening to as Opeth continues to evolve. The mellow side of Opeth has always been there, just the musical mix in the past was more intense in their death metal pre Heritage era thus creating quite a dramatic contrast. While I won't deny that I do miss that side of the band, I have found myself enjoying Opeth's last album Heritage quite a lot and now Pale Communion even more so.

Pale Communion has that 70's progressive rock influence and sound to match, but is still very much infused with those Opeth trademark sounds of the past and a darkness remains along with Mikael Akerfeldt's magnetizing vocals, and the vocal melodies on this album are also most inviting. The guitars and keyboards are both so impressive on this release, with a strong input from the latter. Pale Communion was produced by Akerfeldt and mixed by Steve Wilson (Porcupine Tree) so it's really not that surprising just how good this album sounds. Besides presenting the opportunity to experience a new Opeth release, my anticipation for Pale Communion was boosted by the fact that the Italian progressive rock group Goblin provided some inspiration. To the point of Opeth naming a clever instrumental track after the band. Those classic Dario Argento horror flicks like Suspira wouldn't have been the same without Golbin's wonderful soundtracks.

Opeth's albums have always featured exemplary performances and Pale Communion Is no exception, just take a listen to Martin Axenrot's drumming which is simply outstanding on this recording. From the start of the excellent opener "Eternal Rains Will Come" with that jazz/rock vibe Martin plays with such an entrancing feel. The next track "Cusp Of Eternity" is quite a straightforward number which has a fine groove and consistent pace that hooks you in, the aura this track exudes is also an attraction. "Moon Above, Sun Below" is the longest song on Pale Communion and displays the different sides of Opeth's sound. "Elysian Woes" is such a peaceful song while "River" starts with what could be labelled as a country feel featuring strong vocal harmonies, before unveiling some delightful rocking progressive style as Opeth gets heavier with a gripping instrumental section. Is that some double kicks I hear? Albeit briefly in "Voice of Treason" during one of the more lively passages, and that swinging feel of "Faith in Others" is another surprise that works so well especially with the added sounds of the string section.

As was the case with Heritage opinions will be mixed to say the least. But you would be kidding yourself by claiming that Pale Communion is not an Opeth release, as that it is and an exceptional one at that.

See more about this release on our recent YouTube show!

Track Listing
1. Eternal Rains Will Come
2. Cusp of Eternity
3. Moon Above, Sun Below
4. Elysian Woes
5. Goblin
6. River
7. Voice of Treason
8. Faith in Others

Added: August 31st 2014
Reviewer: Scott Jessup
Score:
Related Link: Band Websiite
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Language: english

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