The Wooden Box cover

The Wooden Box

Opeth · 2008

209 min · 25 tracks · death metal · progressive metal · progressive rock

A sprawling blend of haunting melodies and intricate musicianship envelops listeners in a dark, atmospheric soundscape.

Why this album works

This album is significant for its comprehensive collection of early material, allowing new fans to appreciate the band's formative years. It received positive reviews from critics, reinforcing Opeth's reputation as innovative musicians and influencing countless bands within the progressive and extreme metal genres.
Best for
dynamic progression with peaks haunting melodies for introspection wave-like pacing for deep focus
Context
Released in 2008, 'The Wooden Box' is a compilation album that consolidates Opeth's early works from their first three studio albums, showcasing their evolution from death metal to progressive rock. At this point in their career, Opeth was firmly established as pioneers within the progressive metal scene following the commercial success of their previous album, 'Ghost Reveries'.
Stylistic neighbors
Porcupine Tree· Dream Theater· Riverside

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 In Mist She Was Standing 14:09
  • 2 Under the Weeping Moon 9:52
  • 3 Silhouette 3:07
  • 4 Forest of October 13:05
  • 5 The Twilight Is My Robe 11:01
  • 6 Requiem, Part 1 1:11
  • 7 Requiem, Part 2 / The Apostle in Triumph 13:01
  • 8 Into the Frost of Winter 6:20

Disc 2

  • 1 Advent 13:44
  • 2 The Night and the Silent Water Standout 10:59
  • 3 Nectar 10:09
  • 4 Black Rose Immortal Standout 20:14
  • 5 To Bid You Farewell 10:54
  • 6 Eternal Soul Torture 8:35

Disc 3

  • 1 Prologue 0:59
  • 2 April Ethereal Standout 8:41
  • 3 When 9:14
  • 4 Madrigal 1:26
  • 5 The Amen Corner 8:43
  • 6 Demon of the Fall 6:13
  • 7 Credence 5:26
  • 8 Karma 7:50
  • 9 Epilogue 4:02
  • 10 Circle of the Tyrant 5:12
  • 11 Remember Tomorrow 4:59

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata