Nightwish: Exploring Time and Memory in the Album “Yesterwynde”

Finnish Nightwish is set to release their new album, “Yesterwynde,” on September 20th, 2024. This marks the band’s tenth studio album, following their 2020 release, “Human. :II: Nature.” via Nuclear Blast Records. The band has recently unveiled the ninth episode in a series documenting the making of “Yesterwynde.” In this episode, lead vocalist Floor Jansen delves into the album’s thematic elements. Their last performance was on June 17th, 2023, at the Lemonsoft Stadion in Vaasa, Finland, after which they embarked on a touring hiatus. According to keyboardist and songwriter Tuomas Holopainen, this hiatus will not be ending anytime soon.

Holopainen, in a recent interview with Metal Hammer, disclosed that Nightwish will not be performing any shows to promote “Yesterwynde.” He emphasized that the reasons are personal and not related to any internal conflicts within the band. “We just have to take a long breather,” he stated, ensuring fans that Nightwish will continue to produce music. The band has signed a new multi-album deal with Nuclear Blast Records, promising more albums in the future, though the duration of their touring break remains uncertain.

History

Nightwish’s inception in 1996 was a serendipitous convergence of musical aspirations and fortuitous encounters. Holopainen, the band’s principal songwriter and creative visionary, had nurtured a lifelong passion for music, heavily influenced by his classical training and an eclectic taste that spanned genres. Prior to forming Nightwish, Holopainen played in various bands, dabbling in different styles but constantly yearning for a project that could fully encapsulate his expansive musical imagination.

The initial spark for Nightwish ignited during a camping trip in the summer of 1996. Holopainen, joined by guitarist Emppu Vuorinen and classically trained soprano Tarja Turunen, spent the evening around a campfire, experimenting with acoustic compositions that blended folk and classical elements. This informal session marked the embryonic stage of Nightwish, with Holopainen’s vision gradually crystallizing into a desire to merge the grandeur of symphonic music with the intensity of metal.

Turunen’s operatic voice, a stark departure from the conventional metal vocal style, provided a unique and compelling contrast to the genre’s typical soundscapes. Her vocal prowess, honed through rigorous classical training, introduced a level of sophistication and dramatic flair that set Nightwish apart from their contemporaries. This innovative fusion was a stylistic choice and a deliberate artistic statement, positioning Nightwish at the vanguard of what would soon be recognized as the symphonic metal genre.

Holopainen’s lyrical themes on “Angels Fall First” drew heavily from mythology, fantasy literature, and personal introspection. This narrative-driven approach to songwriting created a rich tapestry of imagery and emotion, inviting listeners into a world where reality and fantasy seamlessly intertwined. The album’s thematic content resonated with audiences drawn to its escapist quality and emotional depth.

The band’s early years were marked by a steep learning curve and relentless work ethic. Their initial performances, often in small venues and local festivals, were pivotal in refining their stage presence and building a loyal fanbase. These early gigs, characterized by their raw energy and unpolished execution, provided valuable feedback that would inform their subsequent musical direction.

Sami Vänskä’s addition to the band on bass in 1998 further solidified their lineup, bringing a cohesive rhythm section that anchored their complex arrangements. His collaboration with drummer Jukka Nevalainen laid the foundation for a more synchronized and dynamic sound. This period also saw Holopainen increasingly embrace the use of keyboards and synthesizers, adding layers of complexity to their compositions.

A significant turning point in their early career was the release of the single “The Carpenter,” which garnered attention on Finnish radio and music television. This exposure was instrumental in securing a contract with Spinefarm Records, providing the band with the resources and platform to reach a broader audience. The single’s success was a harbinger of the burgeoning interest in their unique sound, and it laid the groundwork for their breakthrough album, “Oceanborn” (1998).

Reflecting on this formative period, Holopainen often emphasizes the importance of creative freedom and artistic integrity. The early challenges and limited commercial pressures allowed Nightwish to experiment without constraints, fostering a spirit of innovation that would become a hallmark of their career. The combination of Turunen’s ethereal vocals, Holopainen’s orchestral vision, and the band’s metal roots coalesced into a distinctive musical identity that would evolve and mature in the years to come.

As Nightwish progressed beyond their debut, the foundational elements established during these early years continued to influence their artistic trajectory. The integration of classical music structures with metal’s intensity, along with a commitment to thematic storytelling, remained central to their evolving sound. This period of exploration and discovery was crucial in shaping Nightwish’s identity, setting the stage for their subsequent rise to international acclaim.

Following the groundwork laid by “Angels Fall First,” Nightwish was poised for significant evolution, both in terms of their musical complexity and their place within the metal community. With the release of “Oceanborn” in 1998, Nightwish not only solidified their musical identity but also played a pivotal role in defining and popularizing the symphonic metal genre. This album marked a departure from the experimental nature of their debut, presenting a more cohesive and refined sound that resonated widely with audiences and critics alike.

“Oceanborn” emerged as a testament to Holopainen’s growing prowess as a composer and his ability to seamlessly integrate orchestral elements into metal music. The album’s production was more polished, reflecting the band’s increasing proficiency and the resources provided by their contract with Spinefarm Records. Songs like “Sacrament of Wilderness” and “Gethsemane” demonstrated an intricate interplay between Turunen’s soaring operatic vocals, Vuorinen’s sharp guitar riffs, and Holopainen’s expansive keyboard arrangements. This synergy created a powerful and emotive soundscape that distinguished Nightwish from their peers.

A significant aspect of “Oceanborn” was its thematic cohesion. Holopainen’s lyrics delved into mythological and fantastical realms, drawing inspiration from sources as diverse as J.R.R. Tolkien’s literature and ancient mythos. The song “Devil & the Deep Dark Ocean” showcased a narrative style that would become a hallmark of Nightwish’s music, blending storytelling with complex musical compositions. The band’s ability to create vivid, almost cinematic experiences through their music garnered them a dedicated following and critical acclaim.

The success of “Oceanborn” in Finland was unprecedented for a metal band, achieving gold status and catapulting Nightwish into the national spotlight. The album’s popularity extended beyond Finland, gaining traction in various European countries and Japan. This international reception was instrumental in broadening Nightwish’s audience and establishing them as a significant force within the global metal scene.

The momentum continued with the release of “Wishmaster” in 2000, which further cemented Nightwish’s reputation as a pioneer of symphonic metal. The album debuted at number one on the Finnish charts, a clear indication of the band’s growing influence. Tracks such as “She Is My Sin” and the titular “Wishmaster” displayed a matured sound with intricate layers and dynamic shifts, highlighting the band’s continued musical evolution.

“Wishmaster” was notable not only for its musicality but also for its lyrical depth. Holopainen’s lyrics touched on themes of fantasy, personal struggle, and existential musings, resonating deeply with fans and adding a layer of intellectual engagement to the band’s music. The album’s release was followed by extensive touring, during which Nightwish honed their live performances, incorporating theatrical elements that enhanced the symphonic nature of their music.

This period of their career was marked by several vital performances that helped elevate their status. Notably, their appearance at the Wacken Open Air festival in Germany, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious metal festivals, showcased their ability to captivate large audiences with their influential live shows. These performances were characterized by Turunen’s commanding stage presence and the band’s meticulous execution of complex arrangements, which translated the grandeur of their studio recordings to the live stage.

Building on the momentum of “Wishmaster,” Nightwish entered the new millennium with a burgeoning international reputation and an unyielding commitment to artistic growth. The early 2000s marked a significant transformation for the band, characterized by creative experimentation and growing pains. Their fourth studio album, “Century Child” (2002), exemplified this duality, showcasing a more mature and sophisticated sound while navigating internal and external pressures.

“Century Child” was a pivotal release that expanded Nightwish’s musical horizons. The album introduced a fuller, more layered production, incorporating a live orchestra and choir to enhance the symphonic elements that had become a hallmark of their sound. This evolution was evident in tracks like “Bless the Child” and “Ever Dream,” where the orchestral arrangements added a new dimension to the band’s music, creating a rich, immersive experience for listeners. The addition of Marco Hietala on bass and vocals was a critical development; his robust, gritty voice provided a dynamic contrast to Turunen’s operatic soprano, adding depth and complexity to their vocal arrangements.

Thematically, “Century Child” explored darker and more introspective subjects. Holopainen’s lyrics grappled with themes of loss, sorrow, and the human condition, reflecting a growing depth in his songwriting. The album’s closing track, “Beauty of the Beast,” was a testament to Nightwish’s ambition, a multi-part epic woven with intricate melodies and narrative elements, culminating in a powerful, emotional crescendo.

“Century Child” received widespread acclaim and commercial success, debuting at number one on the Finnish charts and achieving platinum status. This success was not confined to Finland; the album charted in several countries, solidifying Nightwish’s status as an international sensation. The subsequent tour saw the band performing in larger venues and reaching new audiences across Europe, South America, and Asia, marking their transition from national stars to global icons.

As Nightwish’s profile grew, so did the expectations and pressures. The band faced the challenge of maintaining their artistic integrity while navigating the demands of an expanding fan base and the complexities of the music industry. These tensions came to a head with the release of “Once” (2004), an album that represented both a creative zenith and a period of intense internal conflict.

“Once,” a monumental project pushed the boundaries of what symphonic metal could achieve. The album’s grandiose production featured the London Philharmonic Orchestra and incorporated cinematic elements that created an expansive, almost operatic soundscape. Songs like “Nemo” and “Ghost Love Score” epitomized this approach, blending metal, classical music, and cinematic scoring into a cohesive and emotionally resonant whole. “Nemo” became one of Nightwish’s most successful singles, garnering significant radio play and music video rotation, thereby introducing the band to a broader audience.

Thematically, “Once” delved into personal and philosophical territories, Holopainen’s lyrics reflect a blend of introspection and broader societal observations. The album’s opening track, “Dark Chest of Wonders,” captured the sense of wonder and discovery that permeated the band’s music, while “Creek Mary’s Blood,” featuring a guest performance by Lakota musician John Two-Hawks, addressed themes of cultural displacement and historical memory.

Despite the album’s success, the period surrounding “Once” was fraught with tension, particularly between Holopainen and Turunen. Creative differences, the pressures of fame and a grueling tour schedule strained their relationship to the breaking point. This culminated in Turunen’s highly publicized departure from the band in 2005, announced through an open letter highlighting the developed personal and professional rifts. Turunen’s departure marked the end of an era and left fans and critics speculating about the future of Nightwish.

The search for a new vocalist was both a challenge and an opportunity for reinvention. Anette Olzon, a Swedish singer with a background in rock and pop, was chosen to fill the role. Her vocal style, distinct from Turunen’s operatic approach, introduced a new dynamic to Nightwish’s music. Olzon’s tenure began with the release of “Dark Passion Play” (2007), an album that reflected the band’s resilience and adaptability.

“Dark Passion Play” was a critical and commercial success, debuting at number one in several countries and receiving platinum certifications. Tracks like “Amaranth” and “The Poet and the Pendulum” showcased Olzon’s versatility and the band’s ability to blend new elements into their established sound. The album’s orchestral arrangements and thematic depth continued to push the boundaries of symphonic metal, proving that Nightwish could evolve while retaining their core identity.

A renewed sense of purpose and experimentation marked this period of artistic growth. The band’s live performances became more elaborate, incorporating visual elements that enhanced the storytelling aspect of their music. Their extensive touring schedule included headlining major festivals and playing sold-out shows in arenas, further cementing their status as one of the leading acts in symphonic metal.

As Nightwish navigated these transitions, they remained committed to their artistic vision, continually exploring new musical territories and lyrical themes. The integration of diverse influences, from classical music to cinematic scoring, and their willingness to address complex and often challenging subjects set them apart in the metal community. Their ability to adapt and thrive amidst change underscored their resilience and lasting impact on the genre.

The successful integration of Olzon was further solidified with the release of “Imaginaerum” in 2011, a concept album that marked another milestone in Nightwish’s evolution. “Imaginaerum” was conceived as a multimedia project, accompanied by a feature film of the same name, directed by Stobe Harju. Its whimsical and cinematic soundscapes reflected the album’s thematic focus on dreams, imagination, and childhood wonder. Songs like “Storytime” and “I Want My Tears Back” showcased a blend of symphonic grandeur and catchy melodies. At the same time, tracks like “Scaretale” and “Song of Myself” delved into more experimental and narrative-driven compositions.

The “Imaginaerum” project exemplified Nightwish’s ambition to push the boundaries of their artistry. The accompanying film, released in 2012, was an ambitious undertaking that blended elements of fantasy and psychological drama, further exploring the album’s themes. The project highlighted the band’s commitment to creating immersive and multidimensional experiences for their audience, reinforcing their reputation as symphonic metal pioneers.

Despite the artistic triumphs, the period following “Imaginaerum” was challenging. 2012, Olzon’s departure from the band was announced, citing personal reasons and creative differences. The search for her replacement led to the recruitment of Floor Jansen, a Dutch vocalist known for her powerful and versatile voice. Jansen, who had previously fronted the bands After Forever and ReVamp, brought a wealth of experience and a dynamic vocal range that seamlessly fit Nightwish’s diverse musical style.

Jansen’s debut with Nightwish came during the Imaginaerum tour, where her performances were met with widespread acclaim. Her ability to deliver operatic and rock-oriented vocal styles added a new dimension to the band’s live shows. The seamless transition was further evidenced by her contributions to the live album and DVD “Showtime,” “Storytime” (2013), which captured the energy and excitement of Nightwish’s live performances with Jansen at the helm.

The release of “Endless Forms Most Beautiful” in 2015 marked Jansen’s first studio album with Nightwish. The album, inspired by Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution and Richard Dawkins’ writings, explored science, nature, and human existence themes. Tracks like “Élan” and “Shudder Before the Beautiful” highlighted the band’s ability to blend intellectual themes with accessible melodies and symphonic grandeur. The ambitious “The Greatest Show on Earth,” a 24-minute epic, underscored Nightwish’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of their musical and lyrical expression.

“Endless Forms Most Beautiful” received critical acclaim and commercial success, reinforcing Nightwish’s position as a leader in symphonic metal. The subsequent world tour further solidified Jansen’s role within the band, showcasing her versatility and the cohesive dynamic of the new lineup. The tour’s success was a testament to the band’s enduring appeal and their ability to connect with audiences on a global scale.

Nightwish’s influence during this era extended beyond their immediate success. They inspired a new wave of symphonic metal bands who sought to emulate their blend of orchestral music and metal. Bands such as Epica, Within Temptation, and Delain emerged, citing Nightwish’s significant influence on their sound. This proliferation of symphonic metal acts contributed to the genre’s growth and diversification, with Nightwish often credited as the genre’s progenitors.

The cultural impact of Nightwish during this period must be considered. Their music, characterized by its fusion of metal’s raw power with the sophistication of classical music, challenged the conventions of both genres and expanded the possibilities for what metal music could achieve. Their success demonstrated a substantial audience for this hybrid form, paving the way for greater experimentation and acceptance within the broader metal community.

Culture

Symphonic metal, a subgenre that blends the aggressive elements of metal with the grandiosity of classical music, has garnered a devoted following and critical acclaim since its emergence in the late twentieth century. The roots of symphonic metal can be traced back to the early 1980s when metal bands began experimenting with orchestral elements to add a new dimension to their sound. However, it was in the 1990s that the genre truly began to take shape, largely due to the pioneering efforts of European bands.

One of this genre’s earliest and most influential bands is Therion, formed in 1987 by Christofer Johnsson. Originally a death metal band, Therion began incorporating classical music elements in their 1996 album “Theli,” which featured operatic vocals, orchestral arrangements, and choirs. This album is often regarded as a milestone in the evolution of symphonic metal, setting a precedent for future bands to follow.

Nightwish, a Finnish band founded in 1996 by Tuomas Holopainen, further popularized the genre with their unique blend of metal and classical music. Their 1998 album “Oceanborn” showcased intricate orchestral arrangements and the operatic vocals of Tarja Turunen, establishing them as a leading force in symphonic metal. Nightwish’s subsequent albums continued to push the boundaries of the genre, incorporating full orchestras and choirs and drawing inspiration from film scores and classical compositions.

The fusion of classical music with symphonic metal is characterized by several defining features that set it apart from other metal subgenres. These include orchestral instrumentation, operatic and classically trained vocalists, complex song structures, and lyrical themes often drawn from mythology, literature, and fantasy.

A hallmark of symphonic metal is the extensive use of orchestral instruments through real orchestras or high-quality synthesizers. Strings, brass, woodwinds, and percussion create lush, cinematic soundscapes. Bands like Epica and Within Temptation are known for their elaborate orchestral arrangements, which add depth and grandeur to their music.

Epica’s 2007 album “The Divine Conspiracy” exemplifies this approach with its use of a full orchestra and choir. The album’s symphonic elements are seamlessly integrated with heavy guitar riffs and rapid drumming, creating a powerful and immersive listening experience. Similarly, Within Temptation’s “The Unforgiving” (2011) features orchestral interludes and symphonic embellishments that enhance the emotional intensity of the music.

Symphonic metal often features vocalists with operatic or classical training, whose powerful and dynamic voices can convey a wide range of emotions and complement the grandeur of the orchestral elements. Tarja Turunen (Nightwish), Simone Simons (Epica), and Floor Jansen (Nightwish, After Forever) are notable examples of such vocalists whose skills have significantly contributed to the genre’s distinctive sound.

These vocalists often employ techniques from classical opera, such as vibrato and legato, to deliver soaring melodies and dramatic performances. Their vocal prowess allows them to navigate complex compositions and collaborate effectively with orchestral elements, creating a cohesive and compelling musical narrative.

Symphonic metal compositions are typically more complex and structured than those in other metal genres. Songs often feature multiple sections, including orchestral intros, instrumental interludes, and extended codas. This complexity is inspired by classical music, where movements and variations are integral to the composition.

For instance, the title track of Nightwish’s “Ghost Love Score” (2004) is a ten-minute epic that traverses various musical landscapes, from delicate orchestral passages to powerful metal riffs. The song’s intricate structure and dynamic shifts exemplify the genre’s ability to merge classical and metal elements into a cohesive whole.

The fusion of classical music with symphonic metal has created a unique and beloved genre and had a significant cultural impact. It has broadened the appeal of metal, attracting fans who appreciate classical music’s technical proficiency and artistic ambition. Moreover, it has challenged the traditional boundaries of both genres, encouraging musicians to experiment and innovate.

Symphonic metal has attracted a diverse audience, including classical music enthusiasts, metalheads, and fans of cinematic music. The genre’s ability to blend the intensity of metal with the sophistication of classical music has created a unique listening experience that appeals to a wide range of tastes. This cross-genre appeal has contributed to the global popularity of bands like Nightwish, Epica, and Within Temptation.

The integration of classical music with metal has challenged and expanded the boundaries of both genres. Symphonic metal musicians often draw inspiration from a wide array of musical traditions, including baroque, romantic, and contemporary classical music, as well as various subgenres of metal. This willingness to experiment and innovate has led to the creation of groundbreaking music that defies easy categorization.

For example, Epica’s “The Quantum Enigma” (2014) incorporates classical, progressive metal, and even electronic music elements, resulting in a rich and multifaceted sound. Such experimentation has pushed the genre forward and inspired other musicians to explore new sonic possibilities.

The fusion of classical music with symphonic metal has also influenced other genres, inspiring musicians to incorporate orchestral elements into their work. This cross-pollination has led to the emergence of new subgenres and hybrid styles, further enriching the musical landscape. Bands in other metal subgenres, such as black metal and power metal, have increasingly adopted symphonic elements, demonstrating the genre’s broad influence.

Release

“Yesterwynde” (2024)

“Yesterwynde” will be released on September 20th, and its debut single, “Perfume of the Timeless,” is already available. This eight-minute epic encapsulates the magic and anticipation that characterize the band’s new era. Holopainen describes the album as “a fantastical voyage through time, memory, and the better angels of human nature.” The album’s development spanned three years, with recording sessions taking place in both Kitee, Holopainen’s hometown, and London’s renowned Abbey Road Studios. The twelve-track record does not feature side-long epics but remains ambitious and expansive in scope.

The album’s major theme is time, exploring humanity’s history and mortality while maintaining an optimistic outlook. Holopainen elaborated on this theme through the song “An Ocean of Strange Islands,” which features over 600 tracks, illustrating the album’s intricate production process. The title “Yesterwynde” emerged from Holopainen’s fascination with colorized black-and-white photographs, which evoke a profound connection to the past. Unable to find a suitable word to describe this sensation, he and multi-instrumentalist Troy Donockley coined the term “Yesterwynde.”

Video

“Perfume of the Timeless”

“Perfume of the Timeless” explores the continuity of human existence through countless generations. Holopainen marvels at the unbroken chain of ancestors that led to our existence, emphasizing the improbability and significance of each individual’s life. Another notable track, “The Children of ‘Ata,” features native singers from Tonga. Inspired by Rutger Bregman’s book “Humankind: A Hopeful History,” the song tells the true story of six Tongan children marooned on a deserted island, who lived harmoniously for fifteen months, countering the narrative of “Lord of the Flies.” The involvement of Tongan singers in the song was a heartfelt homage to this story of optimism.

Despite the album’s release, Nightwish will not be touring. Holopainen reiterated the band’s need for a break and assured fans that there is no internal discord. The new deal with Nuclear Blast Records signals the band’s commitment to future projects. “Nightwish are definitely not going to stop, so everybody stop worrying,” he reassured.

The release of “Yesterwynde” and its lead single, “Perfume of the Timeless,” marks a significant moment for Nightwish, blending narrative depth with their signature symphonic metal sound. The accompanying music video for the single showcases Jansen’s powerful vocals and the band’s exceptional musicianship. As Holopainen aptly summarized, “You are the result of an unbroken chain of millions of ancestors and their loves. ‘Perfume of the Timeless’ reminds us all of this amazing fact. And if you are not amazed, listen to it again, because it is important.”

Conclusion

Nightwish’s “Yesterwynde” stands as a testament to their enduring creativity and ability to weave intricate narratives through their symphonic metal sound. This album, rich in thematic depth and complex compositions, reflects the band’s evolution and their continuous exploration of time and memory.

Despite not touring to promote “Yesterwynde,” Nightwish reassures their fans of their unwavering commitment to producing music that transcends the conventional boundaries of metal and classical genres. As Holopainen aptly notes, the album serves as a reminder of the unbroken human ancestry and the significance of each individual’s existence.

With their new deal with Nuclear Blast Records and the release of their lead single, “Perfume of the Timeless,” Nightwish invites listeners on a fantastical voyage through history, underscoring the band’s unique place in the symphonic metal genre. As we anticipate future projects, “Yesterwynde” solidifies Nightwish’s legacy as pioneers who continually redefine the landscape of metal music.