The transition of Nightwish.

I first heard of Nightwish when the hubby and I rented the (awful, but better than House of the Dead) Alone in the Dark movie. There was a music video for the song "Wish I Had an Angel" in the special features section.. and the hubby and I were instantly smitten. Powerful female vocals paired with strong male vocals from a guy that resembled a Viking warrior, heavy but not distorted guitar, etc. Then I found their version of Phantom of the Opera, which cemented it. So for the last few years we've been collecting their CDs.

Then, a few months ago I discovered that the female vocalist who had so entranced us, Tarja, had been fired and replaced. I downloaded a couple of snippets from the new album, Dark Passion Play, and inwardly groaned. The snippets didn't sound like Nightwish. They sounded more like something you'd hear on regular rock radio - that weird rock/pop hybrid. Hubby and I were really disappointed.

Then out of curiousity I looked up the video for their new single, Amaranth. The first time it still annoyed me. I found the second playthrough slightly more intriguing. By the 10th time, I was hooked.

So yesterday, Andrew went to Wal-Mart and picked up the new CD after months of it being on our wishlist. I'm currently listening to it, and I have to say, it's not bad.

Yes, I miss the original vocalist. She has a hell of a voice. However, this new Nightwish isn't bad. Not bad at all. The style actually seems a bit heavier in places, which is good, and besides the singles I'd already heard I've found a few other songs to really love on here.

So. If you're a fan, I do suggest giving the new vocalist a chance. She's no Tarja, but she doesn't suck either.

/end random music post