Martin Lopez Drum Kit & Gear Setup — Opeth & Soen Drummer | MetalForge
Martin Lopez (born February 8, 1978, in Stockholm, Sweden, raised in Mölndal) is a Swedish drummer of Uruguayan descent, best known for his work with progressive metal bands Opeth (1997-2006) and Soen (2010-present). He is widely regarded as one of the most influential progressive metal drummers of his generation. Lopez's tenure with Opeth spanned some of the band's most critically acclaimed albums, including "Still Life," "Blackwater Park," and "Ghost Reveries." His dynamic, jazz-influenced approach to extreme metal drumming helped define Opeth's signature sound. After leaving Opeth due to health issues, Lopez co-founded Soen in 2010, continuing to showcase his exceptional musicality and versatility.
Complete biography of Martin Lopez, drummer for Soen and formerly Opeth. Explore his influential work on classic Opeth albums, his Soen career, and unique drumming style.
Martin Lopez Biography
Martin Lopez (born February 8, 1978, in Stockholm, Sweden, raised in Mölndal) is a Swedish drummer of Uruguayan descent, best known for his work with progressive metal bands Opeth (1997-2006) and Soen (2010-present). He is widely regarded as one of the most influential progressive metal drummers of his generation.
Lopez's tenure with Opeth spanned some of the band's most critically acclaimed albums, including "Still Life," "Blackwater Park," and "Ghost Reveries." His dynamic, jazz-influenced approach to extreme metal drumming helped define Opeth's signature sound. After leaving Opeth due to health issues, Lopez co-founded Soen in 2010, continuing to showcase his exceptional musicality and versatility.
Career Highlights
- 1996: Joined Amon Amarth, began professional drumming career
- 1997: Joined Opeth, replacing original drummer Anders Nordin
- 1999: Recorded "Still Life" with Opeth, breakthrough album
- 2001: Released "Blackwater Park," considered a masterpiece of progressive metal
- 2002: Released "Deliverance" and "Damnation," showcasing his versatility
- 2005: Released "Ghost Reveries" with Opeth, final album with the band
- 2006: Left Opeth due to health issues (panic disorder)
- 2010: Co-founded Soen with former Opeth bassist Martin Mendez
- 2012: Released "Cognitive" with Soen, debut album
- 2017: Released "Lykaia" with Soen, critical acclaim
- 2021: Released "Imperial" with Soen, continued evolution
- 2024: Released "Memorial" with Soen, latest album
Style & Influences
Martin Lopez's drumming style is characterized by exceptional dynamics, jazz-influenced finesse, and the ability to seamlessly transition between extreme metal brutality and delicate acoustic passages. His playing prioritizes musicality and emotion over pure technical display.
Key Influences:
- Bill Bruford (Yes/King Crimson): Progressive approach and creativity
- Tony Williams: Jazz fusion influence
- Vinnie Colaiuta: Technical versatility and musicality
- Terry Bozzio: Progressive drumming innovation
Signature Techniques:
- Seamless transitions between extreme metal and acoustic sections
- Jazz-influenced ghost notes and brush work
- Dynamic control from whisper-quiet to crushing intensity
- Creative use of odd time signatures
- Emotional, song-serving approach to drumming
Gear Highlights
Martin Lopez plays a Noble & Cooley Walnut shell pack. His setup emphasizes tone and dynamics over power.
Current Setup (Soen Era):
- Drums: Noble & Cooley Walnut shell pack
- Snare: Noble & Cooley Solid Shell 14"x6" Maple
- Cymbals: Zildjian K Dark Series (14" Thin Hi-Hats, 18"/20" Medium Thin Crashes, 22" Light Ride, 18" K China)
- Hardware: Axis Percussion double pedal; DW 9100 throne
- Sticks: Vic Firth American Classic 5A
- Heads: Remo
Setup Philosophy:
- Favors warm, musical tones over harsh attack
- Uses jazz-style cymbals even in metal context
- Emphasizes dynamics and expression
- Relatively compact setup for progressive music