Well, I've had my first week of Nightwish sensory overload
To say it's a lot to absorb is a gross understatement. So... me being the new guy to the party, here's my spin on the band, the albums/shows/videos I've listened too and seen, and the 3 very distinct vocalists. I've already seen how passionate fans of the band are, especially with regards to the vocalists, so please don't shoot me. I'm just a week old fan of the group, and I'm sure my opinions will evolve over time. This is strictly a virgin, first impression review.
Normally I wouldn't start with live material, but seeing that's how I "found" the band I decided to roll with it that way. I picked up the Showtime, Storytime blue ray and ...WOW... what a fantastic show. The ONLY thing I'd say negative, like some mentioned is the excessive talking and seemingly nervousness of Floor while talking. Other than that, one of the most enjoyable live performances I think I've seen. I went back and also watched the Buenos Aires version of Ghost Love Score like Chad and Bosky suggested. I think Bosky said it best.... when she hits THE note ..... well, if it doesn't emotionally rock you, you probably don't have a soul...
I learned, it's really not a good idea to watch that song while at work with people walking by.
Of course from reading this thread, and tons of stuff this week about the band and it's history, it only seemed prudent that I watch "End of and Era", seeing I'm starting with the live material. I enjoyed it, but not nearly as much as Showtime. Tarja for me is fantastic, and talented beyond description. That being said, sometimes her style is a bit over the top with the "Operatic" sound for my taste. Now, I understand THAT aspect is probably what got a lot of folks into the band in the first place. If I would have heard them back in '04 I probably would have been a little less captivated than I am with Floor's performance and capabilities to be completely honest.
As far as the band, obviously Tuomas is the soul and maestro. He is a very creative and talented musician, song writer, and composer. Jukka is a solid drummer, Emppu a very good guitar player, not what I'd call spectaular... but I like his concise, tasty solo's. Marko is an incredible bassist. As far as his vocals, I definitly like his earlier recorded stuff compared to the live stuff I saw on Showtime. One of the duets with Annette on Imaginarium (not sure which one) was really good. Troy and his pipes add a real interesting sound to the group. I like the folk twist to some of the material, an interesting fusion for sure!
So for the last couple days I've taken a page from some of the "Roulette" peeps. I've listened to the top 3 rated studio albums (by consensus that I've read)
Century Child
Once
Imaginarium
I've given them my full undivided attention for one complete uninterrupted listen each. Here's how they fall as of now...
1. Imaginarium - Just a spectacular album. Between the 3 albums, this is the most complete, mature, complex, and enjoyable album for me. I like Annette's vocals very much on this album, she seems to be a good fit for the material. The only song that I'm not overly keen on is Scaretale. Having not seen the Imaginarium movie, I'm guessing it's more of an actual soundtrack number? Other than that one song...great songs.
2. Once - Excellent album. Of course I recognize songs from the live performances on all 3 albums, but I really like
Dark Chest Of Wonders
Wish I Had An Angel
Nemo
Planet Hell
Ghost Love Score
3. Century Child - I'd say this is a good, solid album with a couple outstanding songs.
Mind you, with everyone having such varied tastes, maybe my favorite will be one of the masses least fav's! Time will tell! Anyways... so far it's a FUN ride that I'm really enjoying! I also look forward to Floor's first studio album. I think it's going to be fantastic!
Topic: Nightwish... (Read 318130 times)
