To start this review I must make clear that they were unknown to me up until recently. “Damnation” takes me back donkeys ages to a time when progressive rock practically ruled the world. This album seems heavily influenced by Pink Floyd, for example during the softer, spacy sections as well as the wailing guitar solos. From the first moment I heard the album it struck a chord, thanks to the influence of quality progressive bands of the past and the crystal clear production.
It has a lot of replay value, for example I can play it endlessly and in any setting. It has to be one of the most soothing rock albums I’ve heard, from the precise drumming, to the rich vocals, to the calming guitar work. One thing that won me over was the Pink Floyd vibe, as a massive Pink Floyd fan I can’t help but be taken back to the golden days of progressive rock. Even with outside influence they do sound unique, thanks to their approach and attitude. According to Mikael Akerfeldt they will not make music for the masses, which is passed on in their music. The song structures are complex but not disjointed, and the production quality binds it all together.
The album is beyond reproach. Just like Pink Floyd their music will stand the test of time. The band’s refusal to give into outside expectations gives the music character and endurance. Opeth is the best thing I have heard in the progressive genre in recent times.
