Opeth performing at Sentrum Scene in Oslo, Norway
The previous time Opeth took the stage in Oslo was during the Tons of Rock festival last summer. The band played a setlist chosen by fans, leading frontman Mikael Åkerfeldt to joke about their lack of decent material released in the past two decades. This time, however, they took control of the setlist, incorporating the intricate and challenging tracks from their latest album “The Last Will and Testament,” interspersed with crowd favorites and unique selections from their extensive catalog.
At the core of the concert were four tracks from their new record, including Paragraphs 1, 3, 7, and “A Story Never Told.” Åkerfeldt had expressed reservations about performing these songs live due to their dense arrangements and features like the use of strings. The band encountered a technical hiccup triggering the voiceover by Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson during Paragraph 7, as they don’t rely on a click track. Nevertheless, they navigated through these challenges smoothly. The band’s delivery of Paragraph 1 was captivating, capturing the dark intensity of the album version. Paragraph 3 showcased strong vocals and articulate delivery, with Åkerfeldt delivering the lyrics with remarkable clarity. The complexity of Paragraph 7 was expertly executed, with controlled polyrhythms and a subtle final section highlighting the dual guitar lines. Guitarist Fredrik Åkesson’s solo on “A Story Never Told” was a standout moment, showcasing both prowess and passion. Despite minor slip-ups, the new material resonated powerfully, breathing life into these fresh tracks during the performance.
The concert featured additional songs that complemented the new material, such as the intense and aggressive “Ghost of Perdition” and the dynamic “The Night and the Silent Water.” Surprisingly, the band also included “Häxprocess” from the somewhat controversial album “Heritage,” presenting a modified version that captured the audience’s attention, with a profound atmosphere that mesmerized listeners. The instrumental backbone of the band, comprised of Martin Mendez and drummer Waltteri Väyrynen, showcased flawless performances, grounding the band’s sound with energy and groove. Väyrynen’s evolving interpretation of older tracks added a personal touch without straying from the original recordings, contributing to the coherence of Opeth’s sound.
The production design of the concert created a cohesive atmosphere, enhanced by visual elements that aligned with the thematic elements of the songs. Intriguing sound effects and striking imagery, including a symbolic white stone angel figure, supported the narrative woven throughout the performance. Åkerfeldt’s on-stage banter demonstrated his quick wit and engaging rapport with the audience, adding humor and light-hearted moments amidst the musical intensity. Concluding the night, Opeth’s masterful performance left a lasting impression, blending technical precision with emotional depth and thematic richness.