Artist: Nightwish
Title: Élan
Genre: Gothic/ Symphonic Metal
Release Date: 13th February 2015
Label: Nuclear Blast
Single Review
The expectations of every NIGHTWISH fan were probably higher than usual for the release of the new single ‘Élan’. That is because once again, NIGHTWISH had parted with their singer, this time Anette Olzon in 2012 and introduced Floor Jansen as their new vocalist subsequently. Those who are a bit more familiar with the genre of Gothic/ Symphonic Metal will know Floor from her times as a vocalist for AFTER FOREVER and REVAMP. Already in those projects did the soprano prove her skills and one of her greatest strengths is that she varies beautifully within the pitches; she does not only kill the operatic parts but is also capable of perfectly intonating poppy vocals. Having a singer from such a professional background intensified the curiosity about which way NIGHTWISH would head towards and now we've got the first impression with the song ‘Élan’.
‘Élan’ is a musical mix of folk and metal elements and has an overall friendly, life-affirming vibe which also suits the lyrics singing of spring and spending quality time with friends. It invites for a nice evening out in your favourite local pub with a nice pint of ale and your best friends by your side. Floor's vocals resemble those of a fairy and are kept on a simple level which is not meant in a bad way as they are very pleasant to the listener's ears. Overall, the song impresses with its catchiness and lack of complexity which NIGHTWISH is known to build into some of their songs – those epics are probably waiting on the record ‘Endless Forms Most Beautiful’ to be discovered. ‘Élan’ is a very good single choice for a band like NIGHTWISH which has a wide spectrum of fans and is occasionally featured in the “mainstream” charts as it carries the characteristics of a typical NIGHTWISH song without being too overly complex or heavy. Floor Jansen has also proven that she is a worthy replacement for Anette Olzon.
Another song featured on the single is ‘Sagan’ which mainly follows the same pattern as ‘Elan’ but in a more upbeat fashion. Floor also shows the more edgy side of her vocals, whetting the appetite for more. An interesting side note is that this song is dedicated to Carl Sagen whom Floor extols in the chorus: “Listening to Sagan/Dreaming Carl Sagan/Unseen streams/With understanding no poet is trapped/ Woe to all who stop at the horizon.” Considering the overall friendly vibe of the songs especially in comparison with songs from NIGHTWISH’s latest record ‘Imaginaerum’ the question arises which direction the new record is going to head towards as ‘Élan’ heavily diverges from the epic soundtrack quality and darkness of their music. But we will have to wait until the 27th March to find that out.
In the meantime, let's rejoice with ‘Élan’ and its cheerful video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/zPonioDYnoY
Tracklist
01. Élan
02. Sagan
03. Élan (Alternate Version)
04. Élan (Radio Edit)
Line-up
Floor Jansen - vocals
Tuomas Holopainen - keyboards
Marco Hietala - bass & vocals
Emppu Vuorinen - guitars
Jukka Nevalainen - drums
Troy Donockley - pipes, flutes & whistles
Website
www.nightwish.com / www.facebook.com/nightwish
Cover Picture
Rating
Music: 8
Sound: 8
Total: 8 / 10
Comments powered by CComment