Album Review: Nightwish – Yesterwynde

Review By Glen Parkes

Band Members:
Floor Jansen | Vocals
Tuomas Holopainen | Keys
Emppu Vuorinen | Guitars
Jukka Koskinen | Basses
Troy Donockley | Uilleann Pipes, Low Whistles, Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Bouzouki, Bodhrán, Aerophone, Vocals
Kai Hahto | Drums & Percussion

After a meticulously crafted three-and-a-half-year journey, Nightwish returns with Yesterwynde, a stunning exploration of sound and emotion that elevates the symphonic metal genre to new heights. Set for release on September 20, 2024, via Nuclear Blast, the album showcases the band’s unwavering ambition and artistic vision, spearheaded by the creative force of keyboardist Tuomas Holopainen. With every aspect of the album—composition, lyrics, arrangements, and even cover art—meticulously honed, Yesterwynde stands as both an exhilarating artistic statement and a deeply personal reflection.

The album opens with the title track, Yesterwynde, setting the tone with ethereal melodies and Floor Jansen’s soaring vocals. Her powerful delivery is complemented by lush orchestrations, inviting listeners into a world that feels both grand and intimate. The track serves as a beautiful introduction, hinting at the profound journey ahead.

Following this, An Ocean of Strange Islands dives into a more adventurous soundscape, merging intricate guitar work from Emppu Vuorinen with Jukka Koskinen’s thundering bass lines. The lyrical themes delve into exploration and the unknown, enhancing the song’s dynamic energy. The fusion of symphonic elements with progressive metal intricacies showcases Nightwish’s ability to blend genres seamlessly.

The Antikythera Mechanism continues the album’s narrative journey, drawing inspiration from the ancient Greek device. Its driving rhythms and complex arrangements highlight the band’s technical prowess, while Troy Donockley’s Uilleann pipes add an unexpected layer of depth and texture, making this track a standout moment.

With The Day Of…, the album takes a darker turn, exploring themes of loss and introspection. The haunting orchestration paired with Jansen’s emotive vocals creates a captivating atmosphere, pulling the listener into a deeply reflective space. This track exemplifies the emotional weight that Yesterwynde carries throughout its runtime.

Perfume Of The Timeless emerges as a captivating blend of delicate melodies and heavier instrumentation, creating a push-and-pull dynamic that keeps the listener engaged. The interplay between acoustic and electric elements adds a rich complexity, showcasing the band’s versatility.

In Sway, the album introduces a more playful yet haunting vibe, with rhythmic variations that invite movement. The balance between Jansen’s lush vocals and the intricate instrumentation creates an enchanting soundscape that feels both timeless and contemporary.

As we move into The Children Of ‘Ata, Nightwish draws on mythological themes, intertwining storytelling with their trademark symphonic sound. The song is an epic journey that showcases the band’s ability to craft narratives that resonate on both a personal and universal level.

Something Whispered Follow Me provides a moment of introspective calm, with delicate instrumentation that highlights the vulnerability within Jansen’s vocal performance. This track serves as a beautiful interlude, allowing the listener to pause and reflect before the album dives back into its more intense moments.

Spider Silk introduces a whimsical yet intricate arrangement, capturing the essence of nature through its lyrical imagery. The blend of orchestration and progressive metal elements creates an engaging auditory experience that feels alive.

Hiraeth is perhaps one of the most poignant tracks on the album, exploring themes of longing and nostalgia. The emotional weight of the song is palpable, with Jansen’s haunting vocals intertwining with lush strings to create a breathtaking moment of vulnerability.

With The Weave, the album builds to a powerful crescendo. This track encapsulates the essence of Yesterwynde, weaving together all the elements introduced throughout the album. The dynamic shifts, intricate arrangements, and passionate performances come together in a breathtaking finale.

Finally, the closing track Lanternlight offers a sense of resolution and hope. The gentle instrumentation paired with uplifting lyrics serves as a reminder of the light that can be found even in the darkest of times, wrapping up the album on a beautifully optimistic note.

Verdict: Yesterwynde is a masterclass in symphonic metal, showcasing Nightwish’s unparalleled ability to blend complex musical structures with emotionally resonant themes. Each track is a meticulously crafted journey, rich with textures and depth that invite repeated listens. With this album, Nightwish proves once again that they are not just a band, but a powerful force in music, capable of creating immersive worlds that captivate the heart and mind. Yesterwynde is an album that demands to be experienced, solidifying Nightwish’s legacy as one of the genre’s most innovative and enduring acts.

Track Listing: 
1. Yesterwynde
2. An Ocean Of Strange Islands
3. The Antikythera Mechanism
4. The Day Of…
5. Perfume Of The Timeless
6. Sway
7. The Children Of ‘Ata
8. Something Whispered Follow Me
9. Spider Silk
10. Hiraeth
11. The Weave
12. Lanternlight