Biography
Mikael Åkerfeldt (last name pronounced Ocker-felt) (born 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 joined Opeth, ostensibly as a bassist. When vocalist David Isberg insisted Åkerfeldt join the band, all other members left. David assumed guitar duties, and when David left Opeth two years later, Mikael replaced him as a vocalist.
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 show his influence from these obscure bands, in songs like Blackwater Park and Master's Apprentices.
On August 15, 2003, Mikael Åkerfeldt married his longtime girlfriend Anna. On September 13, 2004, Anna gave birth to a daughter whom they aptly named Melinda after one of his tracks.
In this listing, Mikael is featured on Road Runner All-Star Sessions disc playing the song "Roads".
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