Prog is somehow dead – at least according to Mikael Åkerfeldt

Historically, progressive rock and metal were characterized by innovative ideas, stylistic experimentation, and a rejection of conventional norms. According to Mikael Åkerfeldt, the founder of Opeth, this pioneering spirit has largely diminished, and he questions the current relevance of the term “progressive.”

In a recent interview, Åkerfeldt expressed his dissatisfaction with the genre’s evolution, noting that what was once inventive now often appears predictable and stereotypical, as per MetalInjection.

I’m not sure if it’s so important for me to feel that we are progressive, because I don’t really know what it means anymore.

He reflected that early progressive bands distinguished themselves not solely through technical skill but through their willingness to fuse genres and embrace risk-taking.

Back in the day, I think that it was easier to define a progressive band because they were mixing styles and stuff like that. But now progressive means fast guitar solos, and it’s become a sound and maybe not so progressive.

Åkerfeldt further argued that the contemporary trajectory of the genre contradicts its original ethos.

I think progressive music, especially in rock and metal, has become a bit regressive.

Consequently, he no longer feels compelled to associate Opeth with the label “progressive.”

I don’t know if I can decide if we are progressive or not. I think it’s up to the audience to decide. But for me, it’s become less and less important to be labelled progressive because I don’t know what it means anymore.

When asked about intentionally pursuing a progressive style in his compositions, he responded definitively.

No, I don’t wanna repeat myself.

He acknowledged that some fans might prefer a return to the band’s early-2000s sound, yet he finds little creative motivation in that approach.

Many of our fans want us to maybe repeat what we did in the early 2000s, but I’m not really interested in that. I like for us to progress, but not necessarily just so we fit into the progressive rock/metal genre.

Instead, Åkerfeldt prioritizes artistic development aligned with his diverse influences and emotional expression, rather than adhering to genre conventions.

When I write music, it’s easy to make progress for our own music. I have so many different kinds of influences, and I’m very passionate about my music. At the end of the day, I just wanna write emotional music.