Heh, I don't like "Slaughter of the Soul". I think "The Red in the Sky is Ours" is the best At the Gates album. Slaughter ventured too far into conventional hard rock song structure for me. That should make clear why I dislike Dark Tranquility and In Flames as well.
Demilich aren't that obscure; considering the music they played, I think it's rather amazing they're as well known as they are. I posted this else where, but I rarely like the psychedellic/metal hybriRAB, and most of the material put out by Amorphis falls in that category. Anyways, I'd say they're as progressive/technical as Tool or Mastodon, but far more enjoyable to listen to.
Hate 'em.
It's not a matter of being "especially talented", but maintaing basic proficiency with instruments. "Do They Owe Us A Living?" sounRAB no different from a bunch of hippies beating on bongos while shouting red propaganda.