Read over that forum... was about to post something there myself but decided against it, thought I'd just stick it here instead, it really doesn't apply to those who don't also post here anyways, so...
Duvall, excellent reviews of both bands. You were articulate and dignified and represented anything you could possibly represent very well. The Americans can't have you, dammit, Canadian politicians suck, we need to get them out of there (and the falling apart Canadian Alliance? groan... anyways...) Hey, might you hypothetically need a Minister of Propaganda one day, by any chance?
Anyways, Unfortunately, there was a lot of pointless bickering and name calling crap from both "sides" going on that was pretty unfortunate. One side of me was a little dissappointed that the representative "Opethians" (once again, if I may) weren't all above that, but I also know for me to hold expectations of a few people I've never met simply because I've talked to them on this forum and they like the same band I do is quite silly on my part.
Incidentally, Duvall, as well-written as your instrument by instrument, member by member breakdown was, (and you know all this already, I know) you're still attempting to describe music with words and slice it into terms, which, although it's all you can really do, can never convey music itself, but that's the nature of the universal language... it can't be translated. I don't know who (although I figured out it actually WASN'T Frank Zappa) once said "talking about music is like dancing about architecture". When it comes down to who's better, and presenting two bands, a consensus will never be gained and probably shouldn't. I guess with that discussion I'll say that the public (in as little regard as I generally hold them) spoke.
I leave the computer for a whole day and all this happens...
Take it easy, all.
P.S. Mullets are the lingering visual representation of the stylistically devoid 80's. Ugly, ugly haircuts...