Fans of the critically acclaimed progressive project Storm Corrosion may finally have reason to get excited again. Opeth frontman Mikael Åkerfeldt recently spoke candidly about the possibility of a follow-up to the 2012 self-titled Storm Corrosion album, his collaboration with Steven Wilson of Porcupine Tree.
In a recent interview with India’s Sinusoidal Music, Åkerfeldt revealed that although the duo hasn’t been actively working on new material, talks about a second album have been ongoing for years. “No, it’s not really going anywhere,” he said, “other than when we talk—or text rather. Usually when we’re texting, [Steven] usually sends me funny clips or something. So we’re not necessarily talking about any collaborations or music or anything like that in terms of us doing something. But we have talked a lot over the years about doing another Storm Corrosion, especially, because we’re both very happy with that record.”
The 2012 Storm Corrosion album was a bold and atmospheric departure from both artists’ main bands, blending experimental soundscapes, progressive rock, and avant-garde elements. It was praised for its depth and mood, but Åkerfeldt is clear that a potential follow-up won’t simply be a retread of the same ideas.
“None of us, we don’t really know what to do, because we are not the type of people who would want to repeat ourselves. Even if I think that album is great, and there’s more to do with that sound, I think we wanna probably do something different. And I’m thinking maybe something that’s even more hard, more special, eclectic. I think it’s probably gonna happen at some point.”
The pair’s careful approach to their collaboration highlights their dedication to artistic integrity over commercial pressures. Since the original release, Storm Corrosion has remained a unique and rare gem in progressive music, with only one live performance captured during a 2015 show at London’s Royal Albert Hall—a special occasion when Åkerfeldt joined Wilson on stage to perform “Drag Ropes.”
Recently, Kscope reissued the Storm Corrosion album in an expanded 2024 edition, featuring a Dolby Atmos mix, 5.1 DTS-HD Surround Sound, instrumental versions, and a mini-documentary that offers fans a deeper dive into the creation of the album.
Though no concrete plans are in place yet, Åkerfeldt’s comments give fans hope that Storm Corrosion’s enigmatic and immersive sound may return. Given both musicians’ penchant for evolving their sound, any new material will likely push boundaries and challenge listeners in fresh ways.
