Mikael Akerfeldt, the mastermind behind Opeth's evolution from underground death metal to progressive icons, is a music aficionado with a vinyl collection to match. His journey began with a pivotal purchase at age eight, Iron Maiden's 'The Number Of The Beast', which embedded itself into his DNA. But here's where it gets intriguing: his school memories are intertwined with Alice Cooper's 'Constrictor', a pop-rock record that dominated his Friday afternoons. His admiration for album art is evident in his quest to find the artist behind Black Sabbath's eerie debut cover.
Akerfeldt's taste in music is as diverse as it is unexpected. He recalls the impact of Judas Priest's 'Freewheel Burning' video, only to be let down by their earlier work, and his fascination with the occult, including an audio recording of a Black Mass he's yet to fully listen to. But the real controversy lies in his opinions on Judas Priest's 'Turbo' and The Beatles' 'The White Album'. While he praises the synth experimentation in 'Turbo', a move many metalheads scorn, he also boldly claims that The Beatles are the greatest rock band ever, a statement sure to spark debate.
Akerfeldt's love for his own work shines through as he discusses Opeth's 'Heritage', a record that initially divided fans but has since become a hidden gem. He hopes it will be the album he's remembered for, a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft. And this is the part most people miss: his unapologetic honesty about his musical preferences, even if it means ruffling a few feathers. What's your take on his controversial opinions? Do you agree with his bold claims about The Beatles and Judas Priest? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's spark a lively discussion!
