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HT: Every album that's released by Opeth has the "Opeth Stamp" sound. With the complexity of the music, how much time goes into writing each song?
Mikael Akerfeldt: Basically no writing occurs while Opeth is on tour. We usually try to take a break to write whole albums at the same time. Mike does almost all the song writing and an album takes between three and six months to write.
HT: You recently had your pick of record labels. What was the deal breaker Roadrunner proposed to get you on board as one of their bands?
MA: It was rather their approach to the music business in general - as well as specifically for Opeth - that made the decision for us. We believe that they, more than the other labels we received offers from, are able to push us to the next level.
HT: So many bands so little time. What are some of your personal favorites that you suggest your fans listen to?
MA: There are plenty of bands that deserve recognition. Here are a few of them: Katatonia, Madder Mortem, Porcupine Tree, Amplifier, Paatos.
HT: I know the word "sell-out" really gets to the band, and some fans have voiced they're opinion. Does this false statement add more fuel to the fire towards the band's performance and writing of new songs going forward?
MA: In our case it doesn't affect us at all. We have actually never really cared what people think about us. We are only in it for the love of music.
HT: The voice range is one of the most unique styles that has been noted in music history. Can you give any advice for up-and-coming singers that want to attempt the impossible... singing like you?
MA: This is obviously a question for Mike. But, I know that his screaming vocals aren't that loud. Instead of screaming his lungs out he is very technical. As for the clean vocals, practicing is the only recipe!
HT: When will Opeth annihilate the United States again with a tour???
MA: The very next thing we are about to do is a U.S. tour. The first date is February 15th, and the whole schedule is posted on our homepage, www.opeth.com.
HT: If you were stranded on a deserted island with only three albums to jam to for the rest of your life, which ones would you choose?
MA: Metallica Master Of Puppets, Jeff Buckley Grace and Red House Painters Red House Painters.
HT: What are some of the heaviest new bands you're interested in?
MA: Madder Mortem and Katatonia.
HT: Thanks!
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