Mikael Åkerfeldt
Mikael Åkerfeldt (last name pronounced Awker-felt), born on April 17, 1974, in Stockholm, Sweden, is currently lead vocalist and guitarist of Opeth. Mikael was the vocalist for Eruption, a death metal band which he formed in 1988. After Eruption came to an end in 1990, Mikael founded Opeth as a bassist, together with David Isberg for vocals. When David left Opeth, Mikael replaced him as a vocalist and also took guitar duties.
Among metal fans, Mikael is noted for his exceptionally strong, progressive-rock-influenced songwriting style, and his ability to sing very proficiently in both a melodic tone and a harsh growl.
Åkerfeldt is a collector of obscure 1970s rock and heavy metal albums. He also tends to refer to these obscure bands, such as Blackwater Park and The Masters Apprentices.
On Friday, August 15, 2003, Mikael Åkerfeldt wedded his longtime girlfriend Anna. On September 13, 2004, Anna gave birth to a daughter whom they aptly named Melinda.
In a recent interview, Åkerfeldt suggested that he may be appearing on the new solo album of Ihsahn from Emperor. Confimation is yet to surface.
Equipment
Guitars
- PRS Custom 24 (Electric)
- Martin 000-16GT (Acoustic)
- Martin 000-28 (Acoustic)
- Amalio Burguet 2AM (Classical)
- Laney amplifiers
- Boss GT-6 Guitar Processor
- Boss GT-3 Guitar Processor
Appearances
- Ayreon: Mikael sings the parts of Fear in The Human Equation, the 2004 release.
- Bloodbath: Mikael was the vocalist for Bloodbath from 2000 to 2004, and can be heard on their Breeding Death and Resurrection Through Carnage releases.
- Edge of Sanity: Mikael provided vocals and guitar for some parts of Edge of Sanity's album Crimson (1996).
- Katatonia: Also sings on the 1996 album Brave Murder Day.
- Porcupine Tree: Also sings and plays on the 2005 album Deadwing.
- Soilwork: Mikael sings cleanly on the title track of the album A Predator's Portrait.
- Sörskogen: Mikael sings in Swedish and plays guitars on the lone track "Mordet i Grottan".
- Steel: A small power metal sideproject by Opeth's members, featuring Mikael on guitars.
- Roads: Mikael performs vocals on the song "Roads" on the Roadrunner Records 25th Anniversary album.