As reported earlier today, Swedish progressive metal titans OPETH have revealed the name of their forthcoming album - Watershed, the band's ninth studio effort has just been mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren with leader Mikael Åkerfeldt. The album consist of seven songs and the titles are as follows: 'Coil', 'Heir Apparent', 'The Lotus Eater', 'Burden', 'Porcelain Heart', 'Hessian Peel' and 'Hex Omega'.

All the songs have been written by Åkerfeldt apart from 'Porcelain Heart' which was co-written with Fredrik Åkesson. One additional track, 'Derelict Herds' has also been recorded and this was written by Mikael Åkerfeldt and Per Wiberg. On top of this, three cover songs has been recorded. 'Bridge Of Sighs' from ROBIN TROWER's 1974 album of the same title, 'Den Ständiga Resan' (sung in Swedish) by Marie Fredriksson as well as the classic ALICE IN CHAINS song, 'Would?'.

The album was recorded at Fascination street studios during November 1 and December 13. Some additional recordings were done between January 3rd and 7th. Produced by Jens Bogren and Mikael Åkerfeldt and Opeth.

Says Mikael Åkerfeldt: "I've worked so hard with these songs for quite some time now, I´ve listened to 'em a zillion times. I don't hate them just yet! The album sounds great sonically and I think I can hear us evolving as the record plays on. It is taking us somewhere musically and I don't know where. It's very exciting to say the least! I can't remember having enjoyed a recording this much ever before."

The cover was (as usual) designed by Travis Smith in co-operation with Åkerfeldt. Roadrunner will release Watershed on June 3rd in North America - a day earlier internationally.