Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson Featured On New Opeth Song

Jethro Tull’s legendary frontman, Ian Anderson, makes a surprise appearance on Opeth’s new track “§4,” featured on their latest album, The Last Will and Testament. The seven-minute song includes Anderson’s unmistakable flute solo and a spoken word contribution that adds an extra layer of magic to the progressive metal band’s creation.

The Flute Solo That Almost Didn’t Happen

Opeth’s frontman Mikael Åkerfeldt shared how Anderson’s involvement came about unexpectedly. “I asked him to do a narration, not flute,” Åkerfeldt revealed. “As he was doing the spoken word bits, he asked me, ‘Do you need a flute solo?’ I was like, ‘Yes, please!’ even though I didn’t really have a part for one!” Thinking on his feet, Åkerfeldt quickly found a spot for the flute solo in “§4.” The result? A unique call-and-response-style solo that fits the track perfectly.

Describing the song as “an oddball” piece, Åkerfeldt said it was written instinctively. “I’m not a clever guy when it comes to writing music,” he joked. “People call us ‘thinking man’s metal,’ but I think that’s laughable. I listen to so many genres, I can’t stick to just one.”

Collaborations That Elevate

In addition to Anderson, Opeth’s new album features guest appearances from Europe’s Joey Tempest. Åkerfeldt explained that he only brings collaborators into the mix when they can bring something unique. “I wouldn’t have guests on the records unless I felt that they could contribute something that I couldn’t,” he said.

For Åkerfeldt, working with Anderson was a deeply personal experience. “I’ve cried to Jethro Tull,” he admitted. “Ian’s given me so much joy over the years, it’s incredible. Just mentioning his name alongside this band feels surreal.”

With its blend of progressive metal, heartfelt collaborations, and unexpected twists, “§4” gives us a piece that explores musical boundaries.

Listen to the official lyric video below: