Every Opeth album ranked from worst to best
Opeth is a band that has defied categorization over the years, weaving together elements of death metal, progressive rock, folk, and more. They’ve built a diverse discography that ranges from the brutal to the beautiful. Here’s every Opeth album ranked from worst to best.
1.”Heritage” (2011) – Often considered the most divisive album among fans, its full departure from death metal into a more 70s progressive rock vibe lands it at the bottom of this list.
2.”Sorceress” (2016) – With some tracks hitting the mark, ‘Sorceress’ is uneven at times. It certainly has its moments but doesn’t quite hold up against their best work.
3.”Pale Communion” (2014) – Continuing the path laid down by ‘Heritage,’ this album is better-rounded and has a cleaner production but still lacks the memorable punch of their earlier efforts.
4.”In Cauda Venenum” (2019) – The most recent release shows Opeth comfortable in their progressive skin with strong compositions, though it struggles to reach the heights of their peak material.
5.”Orchid” (1995) – The debut album that introduced fans to Opeth’s blend of death metal with progressive and acoustic elements; raw but brimming with potential.
6.”Morningrise” (1996) – An extension of ‘Orchid,’ ‘Morningrise’ features long compositions and an early demonstration of their signature complex arrangements.
7.”Watershed” (2008) – The final album to feature any death growls, it’s a transitional record that beautifully traverses heavy and melodic territories and includes classics like “The Lotus Eater.”
8.”Deliverance” (2002) – Paired with ‘Damnation,’ ‘Deliverance’ showcases the heavier side of Opeth with some of their most powerful riffs and guttural vocals.
9.”Damnation” (2003) – A stark contrast to ‘Deliverance,’ this album is all clean vocals and melancholic melodies; a lovely detour into soft prog-rock.
10.”My Arms, Your Hearse” (1998) – A concept album featuring tighter songwriting and Michael Åkerfeldt’s maturing vocal talents; a fan favorite for many.
11.”Still Life” (1999) – A concept record with engaging storytelling and intricate compositions; regarded by many as one of Opeth’s most complete works.
12.”Ghost Reveries” (2005) – Astonishingly well-composed and produced, it’s a pinnacle of Opeth’s combination of heavy aggression and captivating melody.
13.”Blackwater Park” (2001) – The quintessential Opeth album; dark, brooding, dynamic, with impeccable production by Steven Wilson. It stands at the zenith of their creative output and is frequently hailed as a masterpiece not just within their catalog but in progressive metal itself.