British Artist Grace Hayhurst on Opeth’s Musical Influence

Grace Hayhurst, a British progressive metal artist, recently released her album, “The World Is Dying,” reflecting on the world’s state. Her music incorporates various elements like riffs, synths, slap bass, string quintets, and French Horn duets, resonating with fans who appreciate diverse sounds. In a special feature, Grace delves into her admiration for the renowned band Opeth, a favorite at ATB HQ.

Opeth, led by Mikael Akerfeldt, served as Grace’s introduction to harsh vocals, paving the way for her exploration of darker music genres. Recalling her initial encounter with Opeth’s music through the album “Blackwater Park,” Grace highlights the band’s ability to seamlessly transition between harsh and clean vocals, creating a captivating musical journey filled with contrast and emotion.

The haunting dissonance and intricate guitar work in tracks like “The Leper Affinity” showcase Opeth’s mastery of blending aggressive riffs with melodic interludes. The band’s talent for crafting emotive and dynamic compositions is evident throughout their discography, with albums like “Watershed,” “Deliverance,” and “Still Life” standing out as essential listens from their earlier catalog.

As Opeth evolved, incorporating jazz and progressive rock influences while moving away from harsh vocals, Grace found herself drawn to their modern sound. Albums like “Pale Communion” exemplify this shift, showcasing Mikael’s clean vocals and harmonic explorations, reminiscent of 70s progressive rock bands. Grace’s live experiences during the Sorceress tour further solidified her admiration for Opeth’s musical prowess and dynamic performances.

Having spent hours learning and playing Opeth’s intricate guitar parts, Grace acknowledges the band’s influence on her own music composition. The intricate melodies, dissonant chords, and emphasis on contrast in Opeth’s music have subtly shaped Grace’s artistic style, infusing her work with elements reminiscent of the band’s signature sound.

Despite Opeth’s widespread acclaim, Grace encourages music enthusiasts to delve deeper into the band’s discography beyond their popular hits, emphasizing the richness and diversity of their musical journey. Through her personal connection with Opeth’s music, Grace highlights the band’s enduring impact on her creative process and urges listeners to explore the multifaceted world of progressive metal through Opeth’s captivating soundscapes.