RELEASED 15th DECEMBER (MUSIC FOR
NATIONS)
To mark the 20th anniversary
of Opeth's ground-breaking 2003 album ‘Damnation’, a special vinyl
re-issue has been meticulously crafted to pay homage to a pivotal and
trailblazing moment in the band’s illustrious history. Originally recorded in the
serenity of Åkerfelt’s native Sweden, with additional production from
Porcupine Tree’s Steven Wilson, the album acclaimed by fans and critics alike
has since received a re-mix and master in 2015, pressed to vinyl on a double LP
together with the dichotomous ‘Deliverance’.
Released on 15th December (Music For
Nations) this marks the first time exclusive and deluxe vinyl pressings have
been given to ‘Damnation’. A record that represents a paradigm shift in the
band’s approach to composition, seeing them side-line their metal roots from
the forefront of their arsenal. Instead replacing it with an additional insight
into ambience, atmospherics, and progressive rock, this together
with Åkerfeldt’s signature lyricality and musicianship creates a
unique record of ethereal beauty and longing, and one which remains top of mind
for many Opeth fans.
The 20th Anniversary versions sees the
2015 re-mix and remaster pressed to standard black vinyl, as well as being
available on deluxe and limited colour finishes, and for the very first
time available on an exclusive picture disc that highlights and reflects the
album’s ethereal and bleak visual world.
Pre-order now: https://opeth.lnk.to/Damnation20
Speaking on the release, the band’s lead vocalist
Mikael Åkerfeldt comments,
“Hello folks! Our old "partners in crime” Music
For Nations are planning a 20th-anniversary re-release of one of our odd
records, this time ”Damnation”. We want our records available on vinyl at all
times, and it turns out we can’t keep stock! Our vinyl editions are flying out.
I’ve seen it with my own eyes when I helped out in a record shop during the
pandemic. Some customers didn’t know they’re buying it from one of the people responsible
for the music. Of course I went: ”Good record, good band!”. So before there’s
any moaning about ”another reissue, another cash grab” I want to stress out
that it really comes down to public demand. We’ll present Steven Wilson’s
updated mix (first available in 2015 or thereabouts) on limited edition opaque
and transparent vinyl as well as on a picture disc, which I believe is the
first time ever.
”Damnation” is a special record, even if they’re
all special to me. I remember hearing the first mix on headphones in a crummy
hotel somewhere in the UK. I had trouble believing it was us, myself, Peter,
Lopez, Mendez (as well as ol’ Steve on keys). It was completely different from
anything we’d done up to that point, and quite frankly, since. Out of all of
our records, I think this one is most suitable for the vinyl format due to the
fact that it is not really cluttered with stuff. A pretty airy recording with 5
musicians and done on 2 inch tapes as well. It’s a record I’m immensely proud
over and it also remains a fan-favourite I believe.
Commenting further Steven Wilson adds “At the
time I remember getting death threats from metal fans for “ruining” the band!
As if it could be anyone’s intention but Mikael’s to do a record like
that anyway. Damnation was when everyone understood that he was not going
be trapped within the confines of any genre or label, and that the band’s
importance and influence would be far reaching. Rightly so Damnation is
now seen as a timeless masterpiece, and I’m very proud to have had my part in
making it.”
TRACKLISTING
Side A
1 - Windowpane
2 - In My
Time Of Need
3 - Death
Whispered A Lullaby
Side B
1 - Closure
2 - Hope Leaves
3 - To
Rid The Disease
4 - Ending Credits
5 - Weakness
Opeth – Damnation;
Mikael Åkerfeldt – vocals and lead guitar
Peter Lindgren – rhythm guitar
Martin Méndez – bass guitar
Martin Lopez – drums
FOR FANS OF: Paradise
Lost, Porcupine Tree, Katatonia, Steven Wilson
Follow Opeth online.