Nightwish - Wishmaster 12" Vinyl Picture Disc

In the heart of Finland, amidst a land of ancient forests and icy lakes, a symphonic metal storm was brewing. The year was 2000, and Nightwish, led by the operatic powerhouse Tarja Turunen, unleashed their third studio album, "Wishmaster." Now, this sonic odyssey has been immortalized on a 12" vinyl picture disc, a visual and auditory feast for any metalhead's collection.

"Wishmaster" arrived at a time when symphonic metal was still finding its footing. Bands like Therion and Haggard were pushing boundaries, but Nightwish brought a unique blend of operatic vocals, soaring melodies, and thunderous riffs that captured the imagination of metal fans worldwide. The album's title track, a bombastic anthem with a choir and orchestral arrangements, became an instant classic and remains a staple of their live shows.

At its core, "Wishmaster" is a testament to Nightwish's musical ambition. The album seamlessly weaves together elements of power metal, classical music, and folk, creating a rich tapestry of sound. From the galloping rhythms of "She Is My Sin" to the haunting beauty of "Dead Boy's Poem," each track showcases the band's technical prowess and their willingness to experiment.

Of course, no Nightwish album would be complete without a touch of controversy. Tarja Turunen's operatic vocals, while beloved by many, also drew criticism from some metal purists who felt they were out of place in a heavy metal band. But Nightwish never shied away from challenging expectations, and Turunen's voice became an integral part of their sound.

The album was produced by Tero Kinnunen and Mikko Karmila, who had previously worked with Nightwish on their breakthrough album, "Oceanborn." The recording took place at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, a legendary facility that has hosted some of Finland's most iconic bands. Kinnunen and Karmila's expertise helped to capture the raw energy of Nightwish's live performances while also showcasing the intricate details of their music.

"Wishmaster" marked a turning point in Nightwish's career. It solidified their position as one of the leading lights of symphonic metal and paved the way for their future successes. The album's 12" vinyl picture disc is a fitting tribute to this landmark release, a reminder of a time when Nightwish dared to dream big and created music that continues to inspire and enthrall metal fans around the world.