DEMO

Given the ever present if sometimes suppressed folk interests of Tuomas Holopainen, it shouldn't be a total surprise that he originally conceived NIGHTWISH as an acoustic formation. This demo is their only recording conceived completely in that mode before drums, bass and electric guitars were added within the year.

From the start, Tarja's crystalline operatic voice infuses a sophistication to these gentle pieces played mostly on acoustic guitar and piano, with guest flute. Nonetheless, it's unmistakably ethereal folk in the vein of, say, LOREENA MCKENNITT, later CORDE OBLIQUE, and just as hypnotic, progressing through the subsequent two tracks. The last was reprised as part of the "Lappi" epic on "Angels Fall First", the first album proper.

A demonstration of an immense and budding talent, this offers a glimpse into an alternative future, though I'd guess if you are reading this review that you are more than satisfied with the timeline that unfolded, thank you.