Opeth? Their discography exemplifies a regression, if anything. From the relatively well constructed Morningrise (especially Advent) into boring, pretentious, ill conceived pieces lapsing from Doomy bullshit with harsh vocals into soft rock passages to placate their trendy fanbase.
Go listen to Tool.
if you decide to grow up a bit, check out Atheist, Sigh, Therion..
Name:
Anonymous2008-08-13 17:48
Tool is the most incredibly overrated band EVER. They don't suck, but people fucking *worship* their acceptable and decent music. I hope you're kidding.
So, you think black metal vocals are just categorically better than Swedish death vocals? That's an inarguable point.
Atheist - They're *really* good instrumentally, but they fall into American/Florida poser-wankery and his vocals are *shit.* You're right, though, they are progressive. Although most people will incorrectly just call them metal.
Sigh - Oh hoh. Japanese metal! How cutting edge of me! At least they are good, though. They seem like something you'd play to impress your friends.
Therion - Opeth is too "pretentious" for you and you like these guys? They're really great, but I'd say you've got that backwards.
And I don't think Opeth does any of their albums with their fans in mind. It may not be like it used to be, but they're going in different directions. A lot of people actively dislike it, and, like you, only listen to their old stuff. You don't have to like it, but it's hardly regression.