The Axe Men Cometh: Catch Swedish Metal Legends Opeth Live
Swedish heavy metal band Opeth will be taking the stage Saturday, February 11 at Tango. If you are in any doubt as to their metal credentials, consider that their drummer is named Axe. Gosh. They will be exposing Beijingers to their unique sound, which blends metal with softer elements such as folk, blues and jazz. Before that happens, we got guitarist Fredrik Akesson to offer some insight on the band's influences, fake blood and loud fans.
How much did the changing of band members affect Opeth?
I think every band member brings something great to the band and the previous did too. The current lineup performs really good and Mikael said that he likes this lineup best. Since Mike is writing most of the songs, our job is to amplify his vision and make his songs ours as well.
Would you call Heritage a metal album?
It's still metal to me because we dare to do something different instead of copying ourselves.
Where do you get your inspiration and influence from to make Heritage?
'70s hard rock and progressive rock. Swedish folk music and a French band called Magma, etc.
What was the last thing that inspired you?
When we rehearsed last time, I plugged in to my new Marshall JVM 410 and it sounded very inspiring.
What are you listening to right now?
Jeff Beck, Black Sabbath, Gary Moore.
What kind of music would drive you insane the fastest?
In a negative way it would be techno. In a good way, Slayer.
If I wanted to start a metal band right now, what's the first piece of advice you'd give me?
Find good people to play with. Practice a lot. Be a diplomatic and determined leader.
What was the craziest thing you've ever done on stage?
Once I drank fake blood which made me throw up on stage ... not a very pleasant experience. This was with a cover band.
What audience reaction do you like the most at your live shows?
I like them to go crazy but still listen to the more calm parts. At some shows people like to talk during those sections and I find that disrespectful.
If you could ban one thing from your gig, what would you ban?
Maybe just that ... [referring to the last answer]
What is the most depressing city you've ever played?
Bogota, because it was so dangerous and someone stole our beer.
What would you do if you suddenly felt sick on stage?
You just try to bear with it. I have been really sick at a few shows but newer walked off stage.
Tell us a secret about Opeth.
We are five freaks [wink].
What songs will you be playing at your Beijing concert? Any new works?
We will play a mix of old and new and songs with growl vocals too.
Growl with Opeth at Tango on Feb 11.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
