Editing Opeth (section)

==History==
===Formation (1990–1993)===
[[File:Mikael Åkerfeldt 2005 by JeroenMassar.jpg|left|thumb|upright|Åkerfeldt (pictured) and Isberg carried on with Opeth after all other members left.]]

Opeth was formed as a [[death metal]] band in April 1990 in Stockholm, Sweden, by [[David Isberg]], with some friends from [[Täby]];<ref name="isberg stalker"/><ref name="Chapter 2"/> Isberg was the lead vocalist.<ref name="Metal Hammer">{{cite journal |date=January 2008 |author= Joel McIver |title= Pressing the Red Button |journal= [[Metal Hammer]]}}</ref> The band name was taken from the [[Wilbur Smith]] novel ''[[The Sunbird]]'', in which Opet is the name of a fictional city.<ref name="Furteeng">{{cite web |author=Erika Kristen Watt |date=5 July 2005 |url=http://www.fourteeng.net/opeth.html |title=Interview Mikael Åkerfeldt |publisher=Furteeng.net |access-date=8 February 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090604023601/http://www.fourteeng.net/opeth.html |archive-date=4 June 2009 }}</ref> Isberg asked former Eruption band member and guitarist [[Mikael Åkerfeldt]] to join Opeth as a bassist, replacing Martin Persson. When Åkerfeldt showed up to practice on the day after Isberg invited him, it became clear that Isberg had not told the band members, including the band's current bassist, that Åkerfeldt would be joining the band. An ensuing argument led to all members but Isberg and Åkerfeldt leaving to form a new project.<ref name="Metal Hammer"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.musicradar.com/guitarist/interview-mikael-akerfeldt-opeth-283778|author=Rob Laing|title=Interview: Mikael Åkerfeldt, Opeth|publisher=Music Radar|date=12 October 2010|access-date=1 October 2016|archive-date=30 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190730100639/https://www.musicradar.com/guitarist/interview-mikael-akerfeldt-opeth-283778|url-status=live |quote=But the other guys didn't know I was coming to the rehearsal - the original bass player showed up too and said, Who the fuck is this guy? They had a huge argument and he [Isberg] fired them...he told them to fuck off and me and him became Opeth.}}</ref> At this time Opeth declared themselves to be the "most evil band in the world".<ref name=AllMusic/><ref name="Chapter 2"/>

Isberg and Åkerfeldt recruited drummer Anders Nordin, bassist Nick Döring, and guitarist Andreas Dimeo. Unsatisfied with Opeth's slow progress, Döring and Dimeo left the band after their first performance,<ref name="Chapter 2">{{cite web| author=Mikael Åkerfeldt|url=http://www.opeth.com/biography/chapter2.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080124065223/http://www.opeth.com/biography/chapter2.html |archive-date=24 January 2008 |title=Opeth chapter 2 |publisher=Opeth.com |access-date=12 March 2008}}</ref> and were replaced by guitarist Kim Pettersson and bassist [[Johan De Farfalla]]. After the next show, De Farfalla left Opeth to spend time with his girlfriend in Germany, and was initially replaced by Mattias Ander, before Åkerfeldt's friend [[Peter Lindgren (musician)|Peter Lindgren]] took on the role of bassist. Rhythm guitarist Kim Pettersson left following the band's next performance, and Lindgren switched to guitar, with Stefan Guteklint taking over the role of bassist. In 1992, David Isberg left the band citing "creative differences".<ref name="Metal Hammer"/>

Following Isberg's departure, Åkerfeldt took over vocal duties and he, Lindgren, and Nordin spent the next year writing and rehearsing new material. The group began to rely less on the [[blast beat]]s and aggression typical of death metal, and incorporated [[acoustic guitar]]s and guitar harmonies into their music; developing the core sound of Opeth. Bassist Guteklint was dismissed by the band after they signed their first record deal with [[Candlelight Records]] in 1994. Opeth initially employed former member De Farfalla as a session bassist for their demo recordings, and he went on to join on a full-time basis following the release of Opeth's debut album, "Orchid", in 1995.<ref name="Chapter 2"/>

===''Orchid'', ''Morningrise'', and ''My Arms, Your Hearse'' (1994–1998)===
{{Main|Orchid (album)|Morningrise|My Arms, Your Hearse}}
{{listen
| filename    = InMistSheWasStanding.ogg
| title       = "In Mist She Was Standing"
| description = "In Mist She Was Standing", from ''Orchid''. This clip highlights the twin harmony guitar style featured on the band's early releases.
}}
Opeth recorded its debut album, ''[[Orchid (album)|Orchid]]'', with producer [[Dan Swanö]] in April 1994. Because of distribution problems with the newly formed Candlelight Records, the album was not released until 15 May 1995, and only in Europe.<ref name=AllMusic/> ''Orchid'' tested the boundaries of traditional death metal, featuring acoustic guitars, piano, and clean vocals.<ref>{{cite web| author=John Serba|url={{AllMusic|class=album|id=r277899|pure_url=yes}} |title=''Orchid'' review |website=[[AllMusic]] |access-date=12 January 2008}}</ref>

After a few live shows in the United Kingdom, Opeth returned to the studio in March 1996 to begin work on a second album, again produced by Dan Swanö.<ref>{{cite AV media notes| others=Opeth |title=My Arms, Your Hearse |year=1995 |publisher=[[Candlelight Records]] |author=Mikael Åkerfeldt}}</ref> The album, titled ''[[Morningrise]]'', was released in Europe on 24 June 1996. With only five songs, but lasting 66&nbsp;minutes, it features Opeth's longest song, the 20-minute "Black Rose Immortal".<ref>{{cite web| author=William York|url={{AllMusic|class=album|id=r650264|pure_url=yes}} |title=''Morningrise'' review |website=[[AllMusic]] |access-date=5 March 2008}}</ref> Opeth toured the UK in support of ''Morningrise'', followed by a 26-date Scandinavian tour with [[Cradle of Filth]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.komodorock.com/tour-news/tour-dates/opeth-and-arch-enemy-to-headline-metal-hammer's-defenders-of-the-faith-tour-200711162643/ |title=Opeth And Arch Enemy To Headline Metal Hammer's Defenders Of The Faith Tour |publisher=Komodorock.com |date=16 November 2007 |access-date=8 March 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080505121940/http://www.komodorock.com/tour-news/tour-dates/opeth-and-arch-enemy-to-headline-metal-hammer%27s-defenders-of-the-faith-tour-200711162643/ |archive-date=5 May 2008 }}</ref> While on tour, Opeth attracted the attention of [[Century Media Records]], who signed the band and released the first two albums in the United States in 1997.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000005HN6|title=Orchid Opeth|publisher=[[Amazon.com|Amazon]]|access-date=26 August 2011|archive-date=13 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413062111/http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000005HN6|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000005HNA|title=Morningrise Opeth|publisher=[[Amazon.com|Amazon]]|access-date=26 August 2011|archive-date=6 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106191232/http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000005HNA|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 1997, after the tour, Åkerfeldt and Lindgren dismissed De Farfalla for personal reasons, without the consent of Nordin. When Åkerfeldt informed Nordin, who was on a vacation in Brazil, Nordin left the band and remained in Brazil for personal reasons.<ref name="Chapter 4">{{cite web| author=Mikael Åkerfeldt|url=http://www.opeth.com/biography/chapter4.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080205072405/http://www.opeth.com/biography/chapter4.html |archive-date=5 February 2008 |title=Opeth Chapter 4 |publisher=Opeth.com |access-date=12 January 2008}}</ref> Former ''Eternal'' members, drummer [[Martin Lopez|Martín López]] (formerly of [[Amon Amarth]]) and bassist [[Martín Méndez]], responded to an ad at a music shop placed by Åkerfeldt.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKm2eQ7XftM|title=Opeth's Mikael Akerfeldt – Wikipedia: Fact or Fiction?|date=7 May 2014 |publisher=YouTube|access-date=25 October 2015|archive-date=8 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708010804/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKm2eQ7XftM|url-status=live}}</ref> López and Méndez were fans of the band and took the ads down themselves so no other musicians could apply for the job. Åkerfeldt and Lindgren did not want the Martíns to join at first, due to them already knowing each other; they felt that they wanted two strangers so that there wouldn't be two camps in the band, but eventually hired both.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKm2eQ7XftM#t=527|title=Opeth's Mikael Akerfeldt – Wikipedia: Fact or Fiction?|work=YouTube|date=7 May 2014 |access-date=18 October 2014|archive-date=27 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140927102421/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKm2eQ7XftM&gl=US&hl=en#t=527|url-status=live}}</ref> López made his debut with Opeth playing on a cover version of [[Iron Maiden]]'s "Remember Tomorrow", which was included on the album ''[[A Call to Irons: A Tribute to Iron Maiden]]''.<ref name="AMG Call to Irons">{{cite web| author=Jason Hundey |url={{AllMusic|class=album|id=r346670|pure_url=yes}} |title=All Music ''A Call to Irons'' Review |website=Allmusic.com |access-date=11 March 2008}}</ref>

With a larger recording budget from Century Media, Opeth began work on its third album, with noted Swedish producer [[Fredrik Nordström]], at [[Studio Fredman]] in August 1997. Although Opeth had Méndez, due to time constraints Åkerfeldt played bass on the album.<ref name="McCoe">{{cite web |author=Scott McCoe|url=http://www.metalupdate.com/interviewopeth.html |title=Interview with Mikael Åkerfeldt |publisher=Metalupdate.com |access-date=12 January 2008 |archive-date=14 January 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090114085217/http://www.metalupdate.com/interviewopeth.html |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[My Arms, Your Hearse]]'' was released to critical acclaim on 18 August 1998.<ref name=AllMusic/>

===''Still Life'' and ''Blackwater Park'' (1999–2001)===
{{Main|Still Life (Opeth album)|Blackwater Park}}
{{listen
| filename    = Opeth - Bleak.ogg
| title       = "Bleak"
| description = "Bleak" from ''Blackwater Park''. This clip features an acoustic breakdown, followed by a dynamic shift into distorted guitars, a common trait for the band.
}}
In 1999, the ownership of Candlelight Records changed hands, as owner and friend of the band Lee Barrett left the company. Opeth signed with UK label [[Peaceville Records]] in Europe, which was distributed by [[Music For Nations]]. Opeth reserved time at Studio Fredman to begin work on its next album, but recording was postponed while the studio was relocated. Due to time constraints, the band was able to rehearse only twice before entering the studio.<ref name="Chapter 4"/> Delays with the album's artwork pushed the release back an additional month and ''[[Still Life (Opeth album)|Still Life]]'' was released on 18 October 1999.<ref name="Chapter 4"/> Due to problems with the band's new distribution network, the album was not released in the United States until February 2001. ''Still Life'' was the first album recorded with Méndez, and also the first Opeth album to bear any kind of caption on the front cover upon its initial release, including the band's logo.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.opeth.com/biography/logo_01.html| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040221013513/http://www.opeth.com/biography/logo_01.html| archive-date=21 February 2004| title=Current logo | publisher=Opeth.com | access-date=25 January 2008}}</ref> Allmusic called ''Still Life'' a "formidable splicing of harsh, often jagged guitar riffs with graceful melodies."<ref>{{cite web| author=Eduardo Rivadavia|url={{AllMusic|class=album|id=r521354|pure_url=yes}} |title=''Still Life'' review |website=[[AllMusic]] |access-date=12 January 2008}}</ref> As explained by Åkerfeldt, ''Still Life'' is a [[concept album]]: "The main character is kind of banished from his hometown because he hasn't got the same faith as the rest of the inhabitants there. The album pretty much starts off when he is returning after several years to hook up with his old 'babe.' The big bosses of the town know that he's back... A lot of bad things start happening."<ref name="McCoe"/>

Following a few live dates in Europe, Opeth returned to [[Studio Fredman]] to begin work on its next album, with [[Porcupine Tree]]'s [[Steven Wilson]] producing. The band sought to recreate the recording experience of ''Still Life'', and again entered the studio with minimal rehearsals, and no lyrics written. "This time it was tough," Åkerfeldt said, "I feel pleasantly blown away by the immense result, though. It was indeed worth the effort."<ref name="Chapter 5">{{cite web| author=Mikael Åkerfeldt |url=http://www.opeth.com/biography/chapter5.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080205072409/http://www.opeth.com/biography/chapter5.html |archive-date=5 February 2008 |title=Opeth Chapter 5 |publisher=Opeth.com |access-date=12 January 2008}}</ref> Wilson also pushed the band to expand its sound, incorporating new sounds and production techniques. "Steve guided us into the realms of 'strange' noises for guitars and voice", Åkerfeldt said.<ref name="Chapter 5"/>

Opeth released its fifth studio album, ''[[Blackwater Park]]'', on 21 February 2001. AllMusic has stated that the album "keeps with Opeth's tradition by transcending the limits of death/black metal and repeatedly shattering the foundations of conventional songwriting".<ref name="BWPR">{{cite web| author=Eduardo Rivadavia |title=''Blackwater Park'' review |website= [[AllMusic]] |url= {{AllMusic|class=album|id=r517973|pure_url=yes}} |access-date= 12 June 2007}}</ref> In support of ''Blackwater Park'', Opeth embarked on its first world tour, headlined Europe for the first time, and made an appearance at the 2001 [[Wacken Open Air]] festival in Germany, playing to a crowd of 60,000.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.wacken.com/en/woa2008/main-history/woa-2001/| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080324192603/http://www.wacken.com/en/woa2008/main-history/woa-2001/| archive-date=24 March 2008|title=History of Wacken Open Air 2001 |publisher=Wacken.com |access-date=12 March 2008}}</ref>

===''Deliverance'' and ''Damnation'' (2002–2004)===
{{Main|Deliverance (Opeth album)|Damnation (album)}}
{{listen
| filename    = Opeth - Deliverance.ogg
| title       = "Deliverance"
| description = "Deliverance" from the album of the same name. The song is nearly 14&nbsp;minutes long, which is not uncommon for an Opeth song. The clip features Åkerfeldt's growling vocal style.
}}
Opeth returned to Sweden after touring in support of ''Blackwater Park'', and began writing for the next album. At first, Åkerfeldt had trouble putting together new material: "I wanted to write something heavier than we'd ever done, still I had all these great mellow parts and arrangements which I didn't want to go to waste."<ref name="Chapter 7">{{cite web| author=Mikael Åkerfeldt  |url=http://www.opeth.com/biography/chapter7.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071231032512/http://www.opeth.com/biography/chapter7.html |archive-date=31 December 2007 |title=Opeth Chapter 7 |publisher=Opeth.com |access-date=12 January 2008}}</ref> [[Jonas Renkse]] of [[Katatonia]], a long-time friend of Åkerfeldt, suggested writing music for two separate albums—one heavy and one soft.<ref name="Metal Hammer"/>

Excited at the prospect, Åkerfeldt agreed without consulting his bandmates or record label. While his bandmates liked the idea of recording two separate albums, Åkerfeldt had to convince the label: "I had to lie somewhat&nbsp;... saying that we could do this recording very soon, it won't cost more than a regular single album."<ref name="Chapter 7"/> With most of the material written, the band rehearsed just once before entering Nacksving Studios in 2002, and again with producer Steven Wilson in Studio Fredman. Under pressure to complete both albums simultaneously, Åkerfeldt said the recording process was "the toughest test of our history."<ref name="Chapter 8">{{cite web| author=Mikael Åkerfeldt |url=http://opeth.com/biography/chapter8.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080205072419/http://opeth.com/biography/chapter8.html |archive-date=5 February 2008 |title=Opeth Chapter 8 |publisher=Opeth.com |access-date=12 January 2008}}</ref> After recording basic tracks, the band moved production to England to first mix the heavy album, ''[[Deliverance (Opeth album)|Deliverance]]'', with Andy Sneap at Backstage Studios. "''Deliverance'' was so poorly recorded, without any organisation whatsoever," Åkerfeldt claimed, that Sneap "is credited as a 'saviour' in the sleeve, as he surely saved much of the recording."<ref name="Chapter 8" />

''Deliverance'' was released on 4 November 2002, and debuted at number&nbsp;19 on the US Top Independent Albums chart, marking the band's first US chart appearance.<ref name="Billboard">{{cite web| url={{BillboardURLbyName|artist=opeth|chart=Independent Albums}} |title=Artist Chart History – Opeth |publisher=[[Billboard charts|Billboard.com]] |access-date=21 May 2010}}</ref> AllMusic stated, "''Deliverance'' is altogether more subtle than any of its predecessors, approaching listeners with haunting nuances and masterful dynamics rather than overwhelming them with sheer mass and complexity."<ref>{{cite web| author=Eduardo Rivadavia |url={{AllMusic|class=album|id=r614742|pure_url=yes}} |title=''Deliverance'' review |website=[[AllMusic]] |access-date=12 January 2008}}</ref>

Opeth performed a one-off concert in Stockholm, then returned to the UK to finish recording vocals for the second of the two albums, ''[[Damnation (album)|Damnation]]'', at Steven Wilson's No Man's Land Studios.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=6471 |title=Opeth finalize track listing, cover artwork for ''Deliverance'' |work=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=29 September 2002 |access-date=8 February 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021027114126/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=6471|archive-date=27 October 2002}}</ref> Although Åkerfeldt believed the band could not finish both albums, Opeth completed ''Deliverance'' and ''Damnation'' in just seven weeks of studio time, which was the same amount spent on ''Blackwater Park'' alone.<ref name="Chapter 7"/> ''Damnation'' was released on 14 April 2003, and garnered the band its first appearance on the US [[Billboard 200|''Billboard'' 200]] at number 192.<ref name="Billboard"/> The album also won the 2003 [[Grammis|Swedish Grammy Award]] for Best Hard Rock Performance.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-win-swedish-grammy/ |title=Opeth win Swedish Grammy! |work=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |access-date=6 March 2008 |date=19 February 2003 |archive-date=23 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131123134930/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-win-swedish-grammy |url-status=live }}</ref> On 1 January 2016, Opeth re-released both ''Deliverance'' and ''Damnation'' in one package, containing CD and DVD versions, along with new mixing.

The band embarked on its biggest tour yet, playing nearly 200&nbsp;shows in 2003 and 2004.<ref name="Chapter 8"/> Opeth performed three special shows in Europe with two song lists each—one acoustic set and one heavy set. The band recorded its first DVD, ''[[Lamentations (Live at Shepherd's Bush Empire 2003)]]'', at [[Shepherd's Bush Empire]] in London, England. The DVD features a two-hour performance, including the entire ''Damnation'' album, several songs from ''Deliverance'' and ''Blackwater Park'', and a one-hour documentary about the recording of ''Deliverance'' and ''Damnation''. ''Lamentations'' was certified Gold (over 50,000 sales) by the [[Music Canada|Canadian Recording Industry Association]].<ref name="CRIA">{{cite web|title=CRIA Searchable Database |url=http://www.cria.ca/cert_db_search.php |publisher=[[Canadian Recording Industry Association]] |access-date=4 February 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090412081617/http://www.cria.ca/cert_db_search.php |archive-date=12 April 2009 }}</ref>

Opeth was scheduled to perform in [[Jordan]] without a crew due to the fear of terrorist attacks in the Middle East.{{fact|date=May 2023}} Opeth's tour manager distributed 6,000 tickets for the concert,{{fact|date=May 2023}} but before the band left for Jordan, drummer Lopez called Åkerfeldt stating he was having an [[anxiety attack]] and could not perform, forcing the band to cancel the show.<ref name="OPETH Mainman Talks About Drummer's Anxiety Attacks">{{cite news|title=Opeth Mainman Talks About Drummer's Anxiety Attacks |work=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=10 March 2005 |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-mainman-talks-about-drummer-s-anxiety-attacks-devildriver-controversy |access-date=12 March 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090101093559/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/Blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=20205 |archive-date=1 January 2009}}</ref><ref name="Chapter 9">{{cite web| author=Mikael Åkerfeldt |url=http://www.opeth.com/biography/chapter9.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080116165815/http://www.opeth.com/biography/chapter9.html |archive-date=16 January 2008 |title=Opeth Chapter 9 |publisher=Opeth.com |access-date=12 January 2008}}</ref> In early 2004, Lopez was sent home from Canada after more anxiety attacks on tour. Opeth decided against cancelling the remainder of the tour, with Lopez's drum technician filling in for two concerts.<ref>{{cite web| author=Ty Brookmam|date=9 March 2004 |url=http://www.metalreview.com/Interviews/30067/Mikael-%C3%85kerfeldt-of-Opeth.aspx |title=Mikael Åkerfeldt of Opeth |publisher=Metalreview.com |access-date=8 February 2008| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080507150247/http://www.metalreview.com/Interviews/30067/Mikael-%C3%85kerfeldt-of-Opeth.aspx| archive-date = 7 May 2008}}</ref> Lopez promised that he would return to the tour as soon as he could, but two shows later Opeth asked [[Strapping Young Lad]] drummer [[Gene Hoglan]] to fill in. Lopez returned to Opeth for the Seattle show on the final leg of the ''Deliverance'' and ''Damnation'' tour.

===''Ghost Reveries'' (2005–2007)===
{{Main|Ghost Reveries}}
[[File:OpethPeterLindgren1.jpg|upright|thumb|Peter Lindgren left Opeth in 2007 after sixteen years with the band.]]
Opeth returned home in 2004 to start writing new material for its eighth album; by the end of the year, they had finished writing it.<ref name="Chapter 8"/> European label, Music For Nations, closed its doors in 2005, and after negotiations with various labels, the band signed with [[Roadrunner Records]].<ref name="OPETH Sign With ROADRUNNER RECORDS">{{cite news|title=Opeth Sign With Roadrunner Records|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=10 March 2005|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/it-s-official-opeth-sign-with-roadrunner-records/|access-date=12 March 2008|archive-date=3 February 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203080558/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/it-s-official-opeth-sign-with-roadrunner-records/|url-status=live}}</ref> Åkerfeldt said the primary reason for signing with Roadrunner was the label's wide distribution, ensuring the album would be available at larger-chain retailers.<ref name="Chapter 10"/> When news leaked that the band was signed to Roadrunner, who predominantly worked with trend-oriented rock and metal, some fans accused the band of selling out. "To be honest," Åkerfeldt said, "that's such an insult after 15&nbsp;years as a band and 8&nbsp;records. I can't believe we haven't earned each and every Opeth fan's credibility after all these years. I mean, our songs are 10&nbsp;minutes long!"<ref name="Chapter 10"/> The band rehearsed for three weeks before entering the studio, the first time the band rehearsed since the 1998 album, ''My Arms, Your Hearse''.<ref name="Chapter 10">{{cite web| author=Mikael Åkerfeldt |url=http://www.opeth.com/biography/chapter10.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080120003030/http://www.opeth.com/biography/chapter10.html |archive-date=20 January 2008 |title=Opeth Chapter 10 |publisher=Opeth.com |access-date=12 January 2008}}</ref> During rehearsal, keyboardist Wiberg joined Opeth as a full-time member after touring with the band on keyboards for more than a year.<ref name=Wiberg>{{cite news |url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-keyboardist-per-wiberg-officially-joins-the-band/ |title=Opeth: Keyboardist Per Wiberg officially joins the band |work=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=4 May 2004 |access-date=8 February 2008 |archive-date=3 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203080548/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-keyboardist-per-wiberg-officially-joins-the-band/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Opeth recorded at Fascination Street Studios in [[Örebro, Sweden]], from 18 March to 1 June 2005, and released the resulting ''[[Ghost Reveries]]'' on 30 August 2005, to critical acclaim and commercial success. The album debuted at number&nbsp;64 in the US, and number nine in Sweden, higher than any previous Opeth release.<ref name="Billboard"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://swedishcharts.com/search.asp?cat=a&search=Opeth |title=Swedish charts – Opeth |publisher=Swedishcharts.com |access-date=25 January 2008 |archive-date=11 February 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090211165647/http://swedishcharts.com/search.asp?cat=a&search=Opeth |url-status=live }}</ref> Keith Bergman of [[Blabbermouth.net]] gave the album ten out of ten, one of only 21&nbsp;albums to achieve a perfect rating from the site.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/cdreviews/ghost-reveries/ |title=CD reviews |work=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |access-date=13 January 2008 |archive-date=3 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203080543/http://www.blabbermouth.net/cdreviews/ghost-reveries/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Rod Smith of [[Decibel (magazine) |''Decibel'']] magazine called ''Ghost Reveries'' "achingly beautiful, sometimes unabashedly brutal, often a combination of both".<ref>{{cite magazine |author=Rod Smith|date=September 2005 |url=http://www.decibelmagazine.com/reviews/sep2005/opeth.aspx?terms=Ghost+Reveries&searchtype=2&fragment=True |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080118152152/http://www.decibelmagazine.com/reviews/sep2005/opeth.aspx?terms=Ghost+Reveries&searchtype=2&fragment=True |archive-date=18 January 2008 |title=Opeth Ghost Reveries – Wargasm of the Worlds |magazine=[[Decibel Magazine|Decibel magazine]] |access-date=13 January 2008 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

On 12 May 2006, Martin Lopez announced that he had officially parted ways with Opeth due to health problems, and was replaced by [[Martin Axenrot]].<ref>{{cite web |author=Donald Morrone |url=http://www.mooropeth.com/interviewJan06.php |title=Interview with Peter Lindgren |publisher=The Moor |date=January 2006 |access-date=13 January 2008 |archive-date=14 December 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071214042637/http://www.mooropeth.com/interviewJan06.php |url-status=live }}</ref> Opeth toured on the main stage of [[Gigantour]] in 2006, alongside [[Megadeth]].<!-- Do not add other bands that were on Gigantour. --> ''Ghost Reveries'' was re-released on 31 October 2006, with a bonus [[cover version|cover song]] ([[Deep Purple]]'s "Soldier of Fortune"), a DVD featuring a [[5.1 surround sound]] mix of the album and a documentary on the making of the record. A recording of Opeth's live performance at the [[Roundhouse (venue)|Camden Roundhouse]], in London, on 9 November 2006, was released as the double [[live album]] ''[[The Roundhouse Tapes]]'', which topped the Finnish DVD chart.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-s-the-roundhouse-tapes-tops-finnish-dvd-chart/ |title=Opeth's ''The Roundhouse Tapes'' Tops Finnish DVD Chart |work=Blabbermouth |date=6 November 2008 |access-date=17 May 2015 |archive-date=3 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303223650/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-s-the-roundhouse-tapes-tops-finnish-dvd-chart/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

On 17 May 2007, Peter Lindgren announced he would be leaving Opeth after 16&nbsp;years. "The decision has been the toughest I've ever made but it is the right one to make at this point in my life," Lindgren said. "I feel that I simply have lost some of the enthusiasm and inspiration needed to participate in a band that has grown from a few guys playing the music we love to a worldwide industry."<ref name="Lindgren quits">{{cite news |url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/guitarist-peter-lindgren-quits-opeth-replacement-announced/ |title=Guitarist Peter Lindgren Quits Opeth; Replacement Announced |date=17 June 2007 |work=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |access-date=13 January 2008 |archive-date=16 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131216070941/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/guitarist-peter-lindgren-quits-opeth-replacement-announced/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Ex-[[Arch Enemy]] guitarist [[Fredrik Åkesson]] replaced Lindgren, as Åkerfeldt explained "Fredrik was the only name that popped up thinking about a replacement for Peter. In my opinion he's one of the top three guitar players out of Sweden. We all get along great as we've known each other for maybe four years and he already has the experience to take on the circus-like lifestyle we lead as members of Opeth."<ref name="Lindgren quits"/>

===''Watershed'' and ''In Live Concert at the Royal Albert Hall'' (2008–2010)===
{{Main|Watershed (Opeth album)|In Live Concert at the Royal Albert Hall}}

[[File:Opeth münchen 06.12.2008. 4.jpg|thumb|left|alt=Two men with long hair are on a stage. One plays a shiny guitar and the other plays a bass guitar with a wood finish|[[Mikael Åkerfeldt]] and [[Martín Méndez]] live in 2008]]
Opeth entered Fascination Street Studios in November 2007 to record their ninth studio album, with Åkerfeldt producing. By January 2008, Opeth had recorded 13&nbsp;songs, including three [[cover version|cover songs]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-to-begin-recording-new-album-tomorrow/ |title=Opeth: To Begin Recording New Album Tomorrow |work=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=31 October 2007 |access-date=12 January 2008 |archive-date=3 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203080603/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-to-begin-recording-new-album-tomorrow/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The finished album, ''[[Watershed (Opeth album)|Watershed]]'', features seven tracks, with cover songs used as bonus tracks on different versions of the album. ''Watershed'' was released on 3 June 2008.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-new-album-title-track-listing-revealed/ |title=Opeth: New Album Title, Track Listing Revealed |work=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=5 February 2008 |access-date=12 February 2008 |archive-date=3 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203080546/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-new-album-title-track-listing-revealed/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Åkerfeldt described the songs on the album as "a bit more energetic".<ref name="Producer">{{cite news |url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-frontman-says-new-songs-are-a-bit-more-energetic/ |title=Opeth: Frontman Says New Songs are 'A Bit More Energetic' |work=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=21 December 2007 |access-date=12 January 2008 |archive-date=3 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203080553/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-frontman-says-new-songs-are-a-bit-more-energetic/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Opeth toured in support of ''Watershed'', including headlining the UK Defenders of the Faith tour with [[Arch Enemy]], an appearance at [[Wacken Open Air]], and the Progressive Nation tour with headliner [[Dream Theater]].<!-- Do not add Between the Buried and Me or 3. --><ref name="Wacken">{{cite web |url=http://www.wacken.com/en/woa2008/main-news/news/ansicht/article/neue-band-bestaetigt-opeth/ |title=Opeth – Wacken |publisher=Wacken.com |date=18 January 2008 |access-date=24 January 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080120153156/http://www.wacken.com/en/woa2008/main-news/news/ansicht/article/neue-band-bestaetigt-opeth/ |archive-date=20 January 2008 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''Watershed'' was Opeth's highest-charting album to date, debuting at number 23 on the US ''Billboard'' 200,<ref name="Billboard" /> on the Australian [[ARIA Charts|ARIA album charts]] at number seven<ref name="AUS">{{cite web|url=http://www.australian-charts.com/search.asp?search=Opeth&cat=a|title=Australian charts portal – Opeth: Album|publisher=Hung Medien|access-date=16 May 2015|archive-date=14 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150114102139/http://www.australian-charts.com/search.asp?search=Opeth&cat=a|url-status=live}}</ref> and at number one on Finland's official album chart.<ref name="FIN">{{cite web |url=http://finnishcharts.com/search.asp?search=Opeth&cat=a |title=Finnish charts portal – Opeth: Album |publisher=Hung Medien |access-date=16 May 2015 |language=fi |archive-date=1 January 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150101105856/http://finnishcharts.com/search.asp?search=Opeth&cat=a |url-status=live }}</ref> Opeth went on a worldwide tour in support of ''Watershed''. In 2008, they played the UK [[Bloodstock Open Air|Bloodstock]] festival alongside [[Dimmu Borgir]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Band Line Up - 2008 - Bloodstock Heavy metal festival band line and metal band biographies {{!}} Bloodstock |url=https://www.bloodstock.uk.com/events/boa-2008/stages |access-date=2024-09-20 |website=www.bloodstock.uk.com}}</ref> From September to October, the band toured North America backed by [[High on Fire]], [[Baroness (band)|Baroness]], and [[Nachtmystium]].<ref>{{cite news | author=Chris Harris | title=Opiate For The Masses' Manifesto Features New Bassist, Snoring Bulldogs; Plus Opeth, Slipknot & More News That Rules, In Metal File | date=11 July 2008 | publisher=MTV | url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1590680/20080710/slipknot.jhtml | access-date=11 July 2008 | archive-date=14 January 2009 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090114034243/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1590680/20080710/slipknot.jhtml | url-status=dead }}</ref> They returned to tour Europe for the rest of the year with [[Cynic (band)|Cynic]] and [[The Ocean Collective|The Ocean]].<ref>{{cite news | author=Robin Staps | title=The Ocean Will Tour With Opeth | date=23 July 2008 | publisher=[[The Ocean Collective]] | url=http://www.theoceancollective.com/main.html# | access-date=20 September 2008 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180320150540/http://www.theoceancollective.com/main.html | archive-date=20 March 2018 | url-status=dead }}</ref>

In 2010, Opeth wrote and recorded the new track, "The Throat of Winter", which appeared on the digital EP soundtrack of the video game, ''[[God of War III]]''. Åkerfeldt described the song as "odd" and "not very metal."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=52544&comments=1 |title=Mikael Akerfeldt Comments On Recording God Of War 3 Song |date=30 January 2010 |publisher=Metal Underground |access-date=1 February 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303193656/http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=52544&comments=1 |archive-date=3 March 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref> To celebrate their 20th anniversary, Opeth performed a six-show, worldwide tour called ''Evolution XX: An Opeth Anthology'', from 30 March through 9 April 2010. ''[[Blackwater Park]]'' was performed in its entirety, along with several songs never before performed. The concert of 5 April 2010, at the [[Royal Albert Hall]] in London, England was filmed for a DVD and live album package titled ''[[In Live Concert at the Royal Albert Hall]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.opeth.com/index.php/news/show/id/177 |title=Ask Dr. Mike. |publisher=Opeth official Site |date=15 May 2010 |access-date=15 May 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100517031831/http://www.opeth.com/index.php/news/show/id/177 |archive-date=17 May 2010}}</ref> The set was released on 21 September 2010, in 2-DVD and 2-DVD/3-CD configurations.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/news/Opeth-to-Release-In-Live-Concert-at-the-Royal-Albert-Hall-DVD-This-September-21789.aspx |title=Opeth to Release 'In Live Concert at the Royal Albert Hall' DVD This September |publisher=[[Roadrunner Records]] |access-date=2 October 2011 |archive-date=13 August 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100813214535/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/news/Opeth-to-Release-In-Live-Concert-at-the-Royal-Albert-Hall-DVD-This-September-21789.aspx |url-status=dead }}</ref> For the DVD the concert was split into two sets. The first set consists of the entire ''Blackwater Park'' album, while the second set contains one song from every album excluding ''Blackwater Park'', in chronological order representing the twenty years of "evolution" in their music. Åkerfeldt stated, "I can't believe it, but, fuck, we're celebrating 20 years. I've been in this band ever since I was 16. It's insane." A special edition of ''Blackwater Park'' was released in March 2010 to coincide with the tour.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/news/Opeth-To-Celebrate-20th-Anniversary-in-2010-20755.aspx |title=Opeth to Celebrate 20th Anniversary in 2010 |publisher=Roadrunner Records |date=3 December 2009 |access-date=1 February 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170805055653/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/news/Opeth-To-Celebrate-20th-Anniversary-in-2010-20755.aspx |archive-date=5 August 2017 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

===''Heritage'' (2011–2013)===
{{Main|Heritage (Opeth album)}}

[[File:Opeth - Kavarna Rock Fest 2011.jpg|thumb|right|Opeth at [[Kavarna Rock Fest]] 2011]]

In September 2010, Mikael Åkerfeldt stated that he was writing for a new Opeth album.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.classicrockmagazine.com/news/opeth-porcupine-tree-mainmen-work-together |title=Opeth Exclusive: See Special Live Video Clip |publisher=Classic Rock Magazine |date=9 September 2010 |access-date=9 July 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100910002120/http://www.classicrockmagazine.com/news/opeth-porcupine-tree-mainmen-work-together/ |archive-date=10 September 2010 }}</ref> The band announced on their website that they would start recording their tenth album on 31 January 2011, at the Atlantis/Metronome studios in Stockholm, once again with [[Jens Bogren]] (engineering) and [[Steven Wilson]] from Porcupine Tree as co-producer.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.opeth.com/index.php/news/show/id/195 |title=Opeth to enter studio in January 2011! |publisher=Opeth.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110101111337/http://opeth.com/index.php/news/show/id/195 |archive-date=1 January 2011}}</ref> Shortly after mixing was complete on the new album in April 2011, Per Wiberg left the band.<ref name=PerW>{{cite web|publisher=[[Roadrunner Records]] |url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/news/Opeth-Part-Ways-With--Keyboardist-Per-Wiberg-22880.aspx |title=Opeth Part Ways With Keyboardist Per Wiberg |date=7 April 2011 |access-date=29 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110411235009/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/news/Opeth-Part-Ways-With--Keyboardist-Per-Wiberg-22880.aspx |archive-date=11 April 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Åkerfeldt said the band, "came to the decision that we should find a replacement for Per right after the recordings of the new album, and this came as no surprise to Per. He had, in turn, been thinking about leaving, so you could say it was a mutual decision. There's no bad blood, just a relationship that came to an end, and that's that."<ref name=PerW/>

Opeth's tenth album, ''[[Heritage (Opeth album)|Heritage]]'', was released on 14 September 2011, to generally favorable reviews.<ref name="Metacritic">{{cite web|url=http://www.metacritic.com/music/heritage/critic-reviews|title=Heritage|website=[[Metacritic]]|access-date=11 October 2011|archive-date=7 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107063629/http://www.metacritic.com/music/heritage/critic-reviews|url-status=live}}</ref> The album sold 19,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release and debuted at number 19 on the ''Billboard 200'' chart.<ref name=goallin>{{cite news|title=Opeth's Mikael Åkerfeldt On Next Album: It's Time To Go 'All In' With String Instrumentation|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeths-mikael-akerfeldt-on-next-album-its-time-to-go-all-in-with-string-instrumentation/|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=4 January 2014|access-date=24 January 2014|archive-date=3 February 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203051148/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeths-mikael-akerfeldt-on-next-album-its-time-to-go-all-in-with-string-instrumentation/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Heritage'' debuted at number four in the band's native country of Sweden.<ref name="SWE">{{cite web |url=http://swedishcharts.com/search.asp?cat=a&search=Opeth |title=Swedish charts portal – Opeth: Album |publisher=Hung Medien |language=sv |access-date=16 May 2015 |archive-date=11 February 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090211165647/http://swedishcharts.com/search.asp?cat=a&search=Opeth |url-status=live}}</ref> ''Heritage'' became the second Opeth album to not feature any death growls and had a much more [[progressive metal|progressive]] style than their previous albums, a direction that Åkerfeldt was already interested in pursuing with Opeth.<ref name=about>{{cite web|author=Chad Bowar|title=Opeth Interview: A Conversation with Vocalist/Guitarist Mikael Akerfeldt|url=http://heavymetal.about.com/od/interviews/a/Opeth-Interview.htm|publisher=[[About.com]]|date=15 October 2011|access-date=22 November 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106192605/http://heavymetal.about.com/od/interviews/a/Opeth-Interview.htm|archive-date=6 November 2015}}</ref>

The first two songs Åkerfeldt wrote for ''Heritage'' were in the style of ''[[Watershed (Opeth album)|Watershed]]''. After hearing the songs for the first time, [[Martín Méndez]] told Åkerfeldt that he would be disappointed if the album continued in that direction.<ref name=Faceculture>{{cite web|title=Face Culture|publisher=[[YouTube]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0v2pMSu7EUI|date=15 July 2011|access-date=21 July 2011|archive-date=18 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210218222757/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0v2pMSu7EUI|url-status=live}}</ref> Relieved that Méndez was not interested in doing another conventional Opeth album, Åkerfeldt scrapped the two songs and started the writing process over in a different style.<ref name=Faceculture /> In the press release for ''Heritage'', Mikael Åkerfeldt revealed that he felt as though he had been building to write the album since he was 19 years old.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-heritage-album-details-revealed/ |title=OPETH: 'Heritage' Album Details Revealed |publisher=[[Roadrunner Records]] |date=26 May 2011 |access-date=16 May 2015 |archive-date=24 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924151721/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-heritage-album-details-revealed/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In a review for [[Allmusic]], Thom Jurek called ''Heritage'' the band's most adventurous album, describing the songs as "drenched in instrumental interludes, knotty key and chord changes, shifting time signatures, clean vocals, and a keyboard-heavy instrumentation that includes Mellotrons, Rhodes pianos, and Hammond organs".<ref>{{cite web|author=Thom Jurek|url=http://www.allmusic.com/album/heritage-mw0002193946|title=Heritage – Opeth|website=[[Allmusic]]|access-date=16 May 2015|archive-date=28 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150428035946/http://www.allmusic.com/album/heritage-mw0002193946|url-status=live}}</ref>

Opeth supported ''Heritage'' with a tour that would last for over 200 tour dates.<ref name=Sinisterriffs>{{cite news|title=OPETH Mainman Says Next Album Will Have 'More Sinister-Sounding Riffs'|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-mainman-says-next-album-will-have-more-sinister-sounding-riffs/|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=2 September 2013|access-date=24 January 2014|archive-date=13 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131213202714/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-mainman-says-next-album-will-have-more-sinister-sounding-riffs/|url-status=live}}</ref> The tour was the band's first with new keyboardist, Joakim Svalberg, who played on the opening track of the album.<ref name="Heritagelinernotes">{{cite AV media notes | others=Opeth | title=Heritage| year=2011 | type=booklet |publisher=[[Roadrunner Records]] | id=RR 1686-177052}}</ref> During the tour, Opeth played with bands such as [[Katatonia]], [[Pain of Salvation]], [[Mastodon (band)|Mastodon]], [[Ghost (Swedish band)|Ghost]] and [[Anathema (band)|Anathema]] all over the world in countries such as the United States, Europe, Turkey, India, Japan, Greece, Israel, Latin America and Sweden.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.opeth.com/home/tour-dates |title=Official website – Tour dates |publisher=OPETH |access-date=27 February 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120207000750/http://www.opeth.com/home/tour-dates |archive-date=7 February 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/mastodon-opeth-ghost-north-american-tour-dates-announced/ |title=MASTODON, OPETH, GHOST: North American Tour Dates Announced |work=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |access-date=27 February 2012 |archive-date=24 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141024063621/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/mastodon-opeth-ghost-north-american-tour-dates-announced/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.opeth.com/home/news/item/141-von-hertzen-brothers-to-support-opeth-in-scandinavia|title=Von Hertzen Brothers to support Opeth in Scandinavia|publisher=Opeth.com|date=17 July 2012|access-date=20 December 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120731043805/http://www.opeth.com/home/news/item/141-von-hertzen-brothers-to-support-opeth-in-scandinavia|archive-date=31 July 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|author=Mike Hohnen|title=Opeth Announces 2013 Australian Tour Dates – Music News, Reviews, Interviews and Culture|url=http://musicfeeds.com.au/news/opeth-announces-2013-australian-tour-dates/|magazine=Music Feeds|access-date=25 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161008160121/http://musicfeeds.com.au/news/opeth-announces-2013-australian-tour-dates/|archive-date=8 October 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> The tour concluded with "Melloboat 2013".<ref name=Sinisterriffs />

===''Pale Communion'' (2014–2015)===
{{Main|Pale Communion}}

On 26 August 2014, Opeth released its eleventh studio album, titled ''[[Pale Communion]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/news/opeth-pale-communion-20140408|publisher=[[Roadrunner Records]]|title=Opeth's "Pale Communion" Coming June 17|date=7 April 2014|access-date=8 April 2014|archive-date=12 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112021633/https://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/news/opeth-pale-communion-20140408|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeths-pale-communion-pushed-back-to-august/|title=OPETH's 'Pale Communion' Pushed Back To August|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=8 May 2014|access-date=8 May 2014|archive-date=8 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140508193240/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeths-pale-communion-pushed-back-to-august/|url-status=live}}</ref> Åkerfeldt began working on new material as far back as August 2012.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=17546 |title=Opeth – Mikael Åkerfeldt Writing New Material |publisher=Metalstorm.net |date=13 August 2012 |access-date=14 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180322143308/http://metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=17546 |archive-date=22 March 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In January 2014 he stated, "We've been looking at [tracking the next album at] [[Rockfield Studios]] in Wales where [[Queen (band)|Queen]] recorded "[[Bohemian Rhapsody]]", but we haven't made a decision yet, but it will be an expensive album. There's a lot going on, lots of string arrangements that we haven't had in the past."<ref name=goallin /> Despite fearing that the band's new musical direction would split Opeth's fanbase,<ref name=splittingfanbase>{{cite magazine |url=https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/general_music_news/opeth_feared_splitting_fanbase_with_heritage.html?no_takeover |magazine=[[Classic Rock (magazine)|Classic Rock]] |title=Opeth Feared Splitting Fanbase With Heritage |date=10 September 2012 |access-date=17 May 2015 |archive-date=23 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223025250/https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/general_music_news/opeth_feared_splitting_fanbase_with_heritage.html?no_takeover |url-status=live }}</ref> when asked if it will it be heavier or softer than ''Heritage'', Åkerfeldt said, "Maybe a little bit heavier, not death metal heavy, but hard rock/heavy metal heavy. There's also lots of progressive elements and acoustic guitars, but also more sinister-sounding riffs." Åkerfeldt also produced the new album which will include [[string instrument]]ation, something that he became interested in doing when working on ''[[Storm Corrosion (album)|Storm Corrosion]]''.<ref name=goallin /> The band members in Opeth felt rejuvenated after creating ''Heritage'' which resulted in closer relationships between them.<ref name=rejuvenated>{{cite news |url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeths-pale-communion-cracks-u-s-top-20/ |title=Opeth's ''Pale Communion'' Cracks U.S. Top 20 |work=Blabbermouth.net |date=3 September 2014 |access-date=17 May 2015 |archive-date=18 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518103315/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeths-pale-communion-cracks-u-s-top-20/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

''[[The Guardian]]'' reviewed ''Pale Communion'' positively, calling it "strange, intricate prog-metal genius" somewhat flawed by Åkerfeldt's indulgent vocal styling.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2014/aug/21/opeth-pale-communion-review |date=21 August 2014 |title=Opeth: Pale Communion review – strange, intricate prog-metal genius |author=Dom Lawson |work=The Guardian |access-date=15 December 2016 |archive-date=21 December 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161221053058/https://www.theguardian.com/music/2014/aug/21/opeth-pale-communion-review |url-status=live }}</ref> The album saw Opeth's highest chart positions in the history of the band with ''Pale Communion'' debuting at number 19 in the US,<ref name="Billboard" /> number 3 in Sweden,<ref name="SWE" /> and number 14 in the United Kingdom.<ref name="UKcharts">{{cite web|author=Tobias Zywietz|url=http://www.zobbel.de/cluk/CLUK_O.HTM|title=Chart Log UK: The O – Ozric Tentacles|publisher=Zobbel|access-date=6 June 2011|archive-date=19 July 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719120428/http://www.zobbel.de/cluk/CLUK_O.HTM|url-status=live}}</ref> It sold 13,000 copies in its first week of release in the US.<ref name=rejuvenated />

''Pale Communion'' was supported with more touring from Opeth. In 2015, Opeth played several concerts to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the band. At these special shows, the band was doing two sets. The first set is 2005's ''[[Ghost Reveries]]'' as a ten-year anniversary celebration of the album. The second set spanned the rest of the band's career, celebrating their 25th anniversary.<ref name=anniversary>{{cite web |url=http://www.opeth.com/home/news/item/229-25th-anniversary-concert-announced |title=25th Anniversary Concert Announced |publisher=Opeth.com |date=12 November 2014 |access-date=17 May 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518233053/http://www.opeth.com/home/news/item/229-25th-anniversary-concert-announced |archive-date=18 May 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.opeth.com/home/news/item/233-new-york-la-25th-anniversary-shows-announced |title=New York & LA 25th Anniversary Shows Announced |publisher=Opeth.com |date=28 April 2015 |access-date=17 May 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518233050/http://www.opeth.com/home/news/item/233-new-york-la-25th-anniversary-shows-announced |archive-date=18 May 2015 }}</ref> Åkerfeldt expressed excitement for the concerts.<ref name=anniversary />

===''Sorceress'', ''Garden of the Titans'' and ''In Cauda Venenum'' (2016–2020)===
On 15 June 2016, Nuclear Blast Entertainment announced the signing of Opeth.<ref>{{cite web|title=OPETH: Sign To Nuclear Blast|url=https://metalshockfinland.com/2016/06/15/opeth-sign-to-nuclear-blast/|website=Metal Shock Finland|access-date=15 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190730103246/https://metalshockfinland.com/2016/06/15/opeth-sign-to-nuclear-blast/|archive-date=30 July 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref> Three days later, on 18 June, Opeth released a 30-second teaser for their new album, ''[[Sorceress (Opeth album)|Sorceress]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.metalinjection.net/av/heres-your-first-taste-of-new-opeth|title=Here's Your First Taste Of OPETH's New Album Sorceress – Metal Injection|date=17 June 2016|website=Metal Injection|language=en-US|access-date=18 June 2016|archive-date=30 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190730103339/https://metalinjection.net/av/heres-your-first-taste-of-new-opeth|url-status=live}}</ref> A month later, on 18 July, the band confirmed the album would be released on 30 September, in addition to revealing the artwork and track list.<ref>{{cite web|title=OPETH: 'Sorceress' Artwork, Track Listing, Release Date Revealed|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-sorceress-artwork-track-listing-release-date-revealed/|website=Blabbermouth|date=18 July 2016|access-date=18 July 2016|archive-date=30 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190730130853/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-sorceress-artwork-track-listing-release-date-revealed/|url-status=live}}</ref> Mikael Åkerfeldt described it as, "A fine little record. My favorite in our discography right now. Of course. That's how it should be, right? It's both fresh and old, both progressive and rehashed. Heavy and calm. Just the way we like it." The album was the first project under Moderbolaget Records, a joint venture between Opeth and Nuclear Blast. Moderbolaget means "the parent company" in Swedish.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MODERBOLAG in English - Cambridge Dictionary |url=https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/swedish-english/moderbolag |website=dictionary.cambridge.org}}</ref>

On 25 July 2016, in the build up towards the album release, the band posted the first Sorceress: Studio Report on their YouTube channel.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Olffy8UPwbo|title=OPETH – Sorceress: Studio Report – Episode 1: Rockfield Studios (OFFICIAL TRAILER)|date=22 July 2016|website=Opeth Youtube Channel|access-date=26 July 2016|archive-date=12 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190812162237/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Olffy8UPwbo|url-status=live}}</ref> In the behind-the-scenes studio tour, it is confirmed that the band had returned to Rockfield Studios where they previously recorded ''Pale Communion''. At the end of the video, there is a 20-second excerpt of a track believed to be from the album featuring heavily down-tuned guitars.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Episode 1: Rockfield Studios (OFFICIAL TRAILER) |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Olffy8UPwbo&t=552s |website=www.youtube.com| date=25 July 2016 }}</ref>{{original research inline|date=May 2023}} On 1 August 2016, the band released a lyric video for the title-track 'Sorceress' on their YouTube channel. On 5 September 2016, Opeth released a lyric video for the second single titled 'Will O the Wisp,' again through their YouTube channel and website<ref>{{Cite web |title=OPETH - Will O The Wisp (OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO) |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kfpnwk-DXrA |website=www.youtube.com| date=5 September 2016 }}</ref> Opeth's video for "Era" was nominated for "Video of the Year" at the 2017 [[Prog (magazine)|Progressive Music Awards]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://teamrock.com/feature/2017-06-29/vote-in-video-of-the-year-category|title=Video Of The Year|date=12 July 2017|website=TeamRock|access-date=28 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171028201223/http://teamrock.com/feature/2017-06-29/vote-in-video-of-the-year-category|archive-date=28 October 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> where they ultimately won "International Band of the Year".<ref>{{cite web | url= http://teamrock.com/news/2017-09-15/marillion-anathema-steve-hackett-among-progressive-music-award-winners | title= Marillion, Anathema, Steve Hackett among Progressive Music Award winners | work= teamrock.com | date= 14 September 2017 | access-date= 25 September 2017 | archive-date= 22 March 2018 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180322173853/http://teamrock.com/news/2017-09-15/marillion-anathema-steve-hackett-among-progressive-music-award-winners | url-status= live }}</ref>

On 2 October 2017, Åkerfeldt said he has been thinking about doing something "twisted" and different for the next studio album, which could be released by mid-to-late 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.eonmusic.co.uk/opeth-mikael-aringkerfeldt-prog-awards-eonmusic-interview-october-2017.html |title=Opeth Mikael Åkerfeldt Prog Awards eonmusic Interview October 2017 |date=2 October 2017 |website=eonmusic |access-date=3 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190730130908/https://www.eonmusic.co.uk/opeth-mikael-aringkerfeldt-prog-awards-eonmusic-interview-october-2017.html |archive-date=30 July 2019 |url-status=dead }}</ref> On 20 November 2017, guitarist [[Fredrik Åkesson]] stated that the band will not have any gigs in the upcoming months, until the 2018 summer festivals. During this break the band will focus on writing songs for the new album.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-will-take-time-off-from-touring-in-early-2018-to-begin-working-on-new-music/ |title=OPETH Will Take Time Off From Touring In Early 2018 To Begin Working On New Music |date=20 November 2017 |website=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |access-date=20 November 2017 |archive-date=21 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171121013542/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-will-take-time-off-from-touring-in-early-2018-to-begin-working-on-new-music/ |url-status=live }}</ref> On 11 July 2018, during an interview with FaceCulture, Åkesson said "I've recorded a lot of solos so far. And [[Mikael Åkerfeldt]] has almost already written 12 songs for the new album, so we have more material than enough for an album".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-is-working-on-complex-and-energetic-new-album/|title=OPETH Is Working On 'Complex' And 'Energetic' New Album|date=11 July 2018|website=BLABBERMOUTH.NET|access-date=19 October 2021|archive-date=1 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210301191116/https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-is-working-on-complex-and-energetic-new-album/|url-status=live}}</ref> On 22 May 2019, the band announced their thirteenth studio album, ''[[In Cauda Venenum]]'', due for release on 27 September 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://opeth.com/index.php#latestnews|title=Opeth – Official Website|website=opeth.com|access-date=22 May 2019|archive-date=21 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190521071431/http://opeth.com/index.php#latestnews|url-status=live}}</ref> On 12 July 2019, Opeth released the first single from ''In Cauda Venenum'' entitled "Heart in Hand" in both English and Swedish.{{fact|date=May 2023}}

===Lineup changes and ''The Last Will and Testament'' (2021–present) ===
On 16 November 2021, it was announced that longtime drummer [[Martin Axenrot]] had left the band due to conflict of interests and his [[Anti-vaccine activism|refusal to get vaccinated]] against [[COVID-19]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/martin-axe-axenrots-vaccination-status-led-to-his-exit-from-opeth-says-his-bloodbath-bandmate|title=Martin 'Axe' Axenrot's Vaccination Status Led To His Exit From OPETH, Says His BLOODBATH Bandmate|website=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=8 August 2022|accessdate=6 August 2023}}</ref> and was replaced by [[Sami Karppinen]] for the North American tour.<ref>{{Cite news|author=Greg Kennelty|date=2021-11-16|title=OPETH Parts Ways With Drummer Over "Conflict Of Interests"|url=https://metalinjection.net/news/breakups/opeth-parts-ways-with-drummer-over-conflict-of-interests|access-date=2021-11-16|website=Metal Injection|language=en-US}}</ref> On 9 September 2022, it was announced Waltteri Väyrynen (formerly of [[Paradise Lost (band)|Paradise Lost]] and [[Alexi Laiho]]'s project [[Children of Bodom#Bodom After Midnight and death of Alexi Laiho (2020–2021)|Bodom After Midnight]]) was the band's new drummer.<ref>{{Cite web|date=September 9, 2022|title=Opeth Enlists Ex-Paradise Lost Drummer Waltteri Väyrynen|url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/opeth-enlists-ex-paradise-lost-drummer-waltteri-vayrynen|access-date=September 9, 2022|website=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|language=en-US}}</ref>

On 1 August 2024, Opeth announced that their fourteenth studio album ''[[The Last Will and Testament]]'' would be released on 11 October,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bravewords.com/news/opeth-new-album-details-revealed|title=Opeth – New Album Details Revealed|magazine=[[Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles]]|access-date=August 1, 2024|date=August 1, 2024}}</ref> although the date was postponed to 22 November due to manufacturing delays.<ref>https://www.facebook.com/Opeth/posts/pfbid02U2NfyhDCWfppyrdUFUitKixhLh713yNXL2U3mAUksqG2gfY7jJoky2chyw3McEr7l</ref> With the return of growl vocals after 16 years, last appearing on the album ''[[Watershed (Opeth album)|Watershed]]'', the album received positive feedback from many fans and music critics. It was also the band's first fully conceptual record since [[Still Life (Opeth album)|''Still Life'']] in 1999.