An album that represents a paradigm shift in the band's compositional approach, pushing their metal roots from the forefront of their arsenal. Instead, it has been replaced with an added insight into atmosphere, atmospherics and progressive rock, which together with Åkerfeldt's signature lyricism and musicianship creates a unique album of ethereal beauty and longing that remains at the forefront of many Opeth fans' minds. Steven Wilson adds: "I remember getting death threats from metal fans at the time for "ruining" the band! As if it could be the intention of anyone but Mikael to make a record like that. Damnation was the point at which everyone understood that they would not be squeezed into the confines of a genre or label and that the band's significance and influence would be far-reaching. Damnation is now rightly regarded as a timeless masterpiece and I'm very proud to have played my part in that."