Article by Robert Littlemore
My first Nightwish gig. Only heard the music of this band a month ago; got a ticket only a week before so I was lucky but only one. So, first time at a gig on my own. Took the day off work and, left the car outside Manchester. I was thankful it was dry as I queued up to get in. Annoyed I had only had one pint but, it was a wise decision with hindsight. Seemed like ages before I finally got in, straight to the merchandise as usual. With my two t-shirts tucked away, I made my way to the stage front. I had heard of Tristania before, but not heard any of their music so, I was all ears as they walked out on stage. It looked crowded with seven of them all up there on that small stage! The set was good, but they failed to arouse much interest in the crowd, which I felt was a shame as I was left with a good impression when they had finished. Another band to my growing list of music required!
I decide to stay where I am, as the stage is low so I won't see anything if I am any further back. This is where it starts to get crazy as, the push and shove begins about 10 mins before Nightwish come on.
The roar goes up as through the fog of the smoke machine I spot Jukka perched on the drum stool. Then it promptly goes berserk around me like sharks in a feeding frenzy as ‘Dark Chest of Wonders' opens the set. I struggle to keep my balance as the crowd surges but, I am getting closer to the stage all the time! Where is Tarja? Should have known, she arrives on stage seconds before the lyrics begin; she has arrived! Have to admit she looks good! The red ¾ length kimono she has on is really classy; very nice!!
They really look like there enjoying themselves up there as they progress through the set. The crowd cools down a bit and I can watch a bit more but, its rapidly getting hotter in there and, I help send the first crowd surfer on their way to the front. The tunes are predominantly from ‘Once' but, ‘Wishmaster', ‘Come Cover Me', 'Bless the Child', ‘Slaying the Dreamer' and, ‘The Kinslayer' adds variation to the set. I have to admit this band are even better live than on CD, as Tarja turns up the volume and, turns on the style plus; she always seems to be wearing something different when I see her! Marco and Emppu race round the stage and play with real energy, they seem to be feeding off the vibe from the crowd adding to the spectacle. Tuomas is over there somewhere behind a sea of arms in the air, plus Jukka bashes away at the drums twirling the sticks as he plays back there. I enjoy the Pink Floyd cover which, we all sing along to. I am worried about myself now as the girl next to me passes out; I feel a little light headed as the heat takes its toll on us all but, I stay put and hope I will be ok.
Calmness prevails as Tarja takes the stage alone to perform ‘Koulema'; this lady's talent is leaving a deep impression on me, her voice is incredible. All too soon they leave the stage as we chant in unison, “We want more!” and “Nightwish!” “Nightwish!” Etc.
Soon they return and they start the encore by playing my favourite ballad; ‘Sleeping Sun'. I don't know why I like this one so much, simply a gorgeous tune. ‘Wish I had an Angel' brings a memorable night to a close and the band are impressed it seems by the show of hands in the air and cheers as they take there final bow and leave the stage.
I rest and, cool down on the barrier as my ears ring. What a band! Wish I had heard of them sooner. I miss out on meeting any band members narrowly after the gig, but found Vibeke of Tristania charming and talkative as adequate compensation.
“Got to see this band again SOON”, is all I can think as I walk away from the Academy. What a night! Now I need a drink!
