In an interview for the radio program Full Metal Jackie, Mikael Åkerfeldt discussed Opeth , The Last Will and Testament Ian Anderson ( Jethro Tull participation in it.
Anderson, in addition to being the founder of Jethro Tull, is especially known for his work as a flautist, a prominent element in his band's music. On the Opeth release, he will participate as a narrator on tracks “§1”, “§2”, “§4” and “§7”, as well as playing the flute on “§4” and “§7”.
During the conversation, Åkerfeldt mentioned that he considers Anderson one of his biggest musical influences, and that he initially thought of him as the narrator for the album. The interest arose while listening to interviews given by the vocalist: “I thought his voice was, like, a cool voice. And when the narrative aspect of the album came to mind, I thought it had to be him. So I got in touch. He had an incredible voice.”
Åkerfeldt commented that the idea of including the flute was secondary, which surprised Anderson: “I think he was a little surprised – at least that’s what he told me. He said it was surprising that someone, instead of asking for the flute, for which he is very famous, asked him to speak on a record. And he said: 'I don’t remember if I’ve ever been asked that question before.'”
“So he agreed, and I was very happy, the result was great. But then he asked in an email: 'Do you need a flute too?'. I replied: 'Yes, yes, yes, Ian, I do. I need a flute'. But, at the time, I didn't really have a part for it. I just knew I couldn't waste the opportunity. So, I went through the songs and found a part in track '§4' that had a slower section that would be perfect for him. I sent him the part, and he replied with an incredible flute solo.”
This wasn't the first time Åkerfeldt had sought out Anderson for a collaboration: “I've been chasing this guy for about 15 years or something like that. He was invited to be on the Heritage (2011), but he didn't respond at the time. So now, it's incredible that he's on our album. It's crazy. I hope to give him a bottle of something to thank him, because he didn't want to be paid either. I couldn't pay him. So it's simply wonderful.”
The concept album The Last Will and Testament will be released on November 22nd through the Reigning Phoenix Music/Moderbolaget label, and Opeth will be touring Brazil at the Monsters of Rock festival, which will take place in São Paulo on April 19th, 2025.
The full interview can be listened to here:
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