Man - what a bunch of pessimists.
I've enjoyed them since I discovered them in April, 2001, around the release of BWP. I listened backwards to their older stuff, and really enjoyed all of their music. But since I was introduced by their 5th release, it has been my favorite. I look back, and feel Opeth have progressed quite nicely. And Deliverance was yet another step into progression.
With all the buzz about Damnation, I am quite excited for the release. And this time, I will not download any tracks before the actual release. I had Deliverence when it first leaked. This time, I want to try the "wait until the REAL release" to see what I like better - getting it early, or running to the store (or order on the internet), and wait to get the real CD in my hands. I'll frantically unwrap the plastic, and then pick at the edge seal to pull it off. Then I'll open the jewel case, hoping this time that the little pieces that make up the holder of the CD didn't break. I hate getting a new CD with a cracked jewel case, but even more I hate it when the CD is loose inside because the plastic the CD is snapped onto broke.
Then, I'll crank up my stereo (and it's a decent one), and sit down, and listen to the CD in its entirety. I'll probably have a tall glass of soda and some snack, and enjoy an hour of brand spanking new Opeth.
Man - what a bunch of pessimists.