Watershed (Opeth album)

Watershed is the ninth studio album by Swedish progressive metal band Opeth. It was released on June 3, 2008, through Roadrunner Records. Watershed is the last Opeth album to feature Peter Lindgren on guitar and Martin Axenrot on drums, marking a significant shift in the band's lineup.

The album is characterized by its blend of death metal growls and clean vocals, intricate guitar work, and progressive song structures, all hallmarks of Opeth's sound. It incorporates elements of jazz, blues, and progressive rock, further expanding upon the band's experimentation. Watershed is notable for its dynamic shifts in tempo and mood, ranging from aggressive, heavy passages to melancholic and acoustic sections.

The lyrical themes on Watershed continue Opeth's exploration of dark and introspective subjects, dealing with topics such as loss, regret, and the human condition. The album received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its musical complexity, production quality, and songwriting. It is often considered one of Opeth's most ambitious and well-received albums, showcasing the band's ability to fuse contrasting musical styles into a cohesive and compelling whole. Key tracks include "Coil," "Heir Apparent," "Lotus Eater," and "Hex Omega."