#decadestour

The Greatest Show on Earth!

Finnish metal giants Nightwish are no stranger to the big stage. Tonight they took on the final show of the UK leg in the Manchester Arena. It's been SIX years since I saw them in the Apollo Theatre. Not long after Floor had taken over the reins from Anette in fact. Finally my chance to see them for a third time with the bold presence of Floor Jansen at the head. This tour was promoting their Decades (2018) hits record so the set was bound to include an array of tracks from the earlier albums right the way through to Endless Forms Most Beautiful (2015). Maybe something rare that we don't get to hear often!

Supporting Nightwish was another Finnish band called Beast In Black. Formed in 2015 the power metal riffs were sung in strength by the five piece group to a very receptive Manchester Arena. The Judas Priest vibe was clearly evident tonight and they claim other influences such as Black Sabbath, W.A.S.P and Manowar. Overall I enjoyed what they had to offer as the songs were delivered in a style that you could clearly distinguish. Very good job!

The role of Nightwish came into play around quarter to nine as they are played in to 'Swanheart' from Oceanborn (1998) played by Troy Donockley. When the band emerge they begin with a classic from Once (2004). 'Dark Chest Of Wonders' is a cracking song to open with and one of my favourites from the album.  The momentum continued with 'Wish I Had An Angel' sounding boombastic! 'Nemo' was played later on. We had the distinct pleasure of hearing a perfect rendition of '10th Man Down' taken from the EP, Over The Hills And Far Away (2001). Tracks from debut album Angels Fall First (1997) included 'Elvenpath' and 'The Carpenter'. The battling cries from 'Devil And The Deep Dark Ocean' provided us with more material from Oceanborn (1998) with 'Gethsemane' and 'Sacrament Of Wilderness' adding material for that album. 'Come Cover Me', 'Dead Boy's Poem' and 'The Kinslayer' all sounding fantastic from Wishmaster (2000). Just one entry from Century Child (2002) in the form of 'Slaying The Dreamer' which was one of their best live renditions I've ever heard. Two more tracks that sounded great were 'I Want My Tears Back' and 'Last Ride Of The Day' from Imaginaerum (2011).  Newest album Endless Forms Most Beautiful provided a couple of tracks also which began with 'Elan' and they finished with the penultimate track of the night, 'The Greatest Show On Earth'. A track that spans twenty four minutes and is split into five main parts. The excitement and thrills were unyielding as a packed out Arena held their breath for the finale. But it was the ten minute epic, 'Ghost Love Score', Once (2004), that actually ended the show as we waved goodbye to a wonderful experience by these symphonic metal masters.

Through the years Nightwish never cease to amaze. Floor has helped them grow and become the inspirational force they are today. Her along with the newest member, Troy Donockley, have added an extra frame that wasn't their before. This additional angle is a feature that enforces the bands relentless domination in their field. The live experience is one that all need to witness and behold. Here's hoping they don't stay away from our shores for too long!

*TRICK 'N' TREAT*

Trick:- N/A

Treat:- Floor Jansen

            Superb set

            Screen backdrop

            'The Greatest Show On Earth'

Bank account: We can't afford those.

Me: But...I need them :

Bank account: No. Think of what's important.

Me: I got them.

Bank account: WHAT?! WHY?