It has been over eight years since Finnish symphonic metal icon Tarja Turunen graced the stage at Hellfest 2016, and now fans can relive the magic with her new live album, Rocking Heels: Live at Hellfest. Released via earMUSIC, this record is a testament to Tarja’s enduring talent and the power of her live performances.
The album’s setlist is a carefully curated mix of Tarja’s solo work and iconic Nightwish songs, showcasing her evolution as an artist since her departure from the band in 2005. Opening with the intense “No Bitter End” from her 2016 album, The Shadow Self, Tarja sets the tone for an unforgettable musical journey.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Ciaran’s Well”, originally from Tarja’s debut solo album, My Winter Storm. This live version unveils a new, darker dynamic, perfectly capturing the raw energy and mystical atmosphereof her performance on Hellfest’s main stage.
Tarja’s impeccable musicality and classical vocal skills are on full display throughout the album, balanced by the raw power of her band and the sharpness of the recording. Her monumental vocals ensure that newer songs like “Victim Of Ritual” connect with the same vigor as tried-and-tested anthems like “Never Enough” and set closer “Until My Last Breath.”
The album also features a wildly theatrical medley of Nightwish deep cuts, including “Tutankhamen,” “Ever Dream,” “The Riddler,” and “Slaying the Dreamer.” This nod to her past is sure to delight long-time fans while introducing newer listeners to the songs that launched her career.
Tarja’s cover of Muse’s “Supremacy” is another highlight, with her operatic vocals soaring over a dramatic orchestral arrangement. The blend of heavy guitar riffs and symphonic elements creates an epic, theatrical quality that enhances the song’s themes of power and resilience.
The album’s artwork, designed by Tarja herself, features dynamic shots of her in action, reflecting the wave of euphoria that swept over the crowd during her performance. The raw energy and powerful emotion of that unforgettable night are palpable in every track.
As the album draws to a close with the fitting finale, “Until My Last Breath,” it becomes clear that Rocking Heels: Live at Hellfest is more than just another live record. It is a celebration of Tarja’s incredible talent, her dedication to her craft, and her ability to captivate audiences with her voice and stage presence.
While the album may be short and sweet at just 45 minutes, it serves its purpose well. It is a must-have for die-hard fans and a perfect introduction for those new to Tarja’s solo work. The gritty, sweaty snapshot of that summer night in 2016 confirms that Tarja has the spirit of metal flowing through her veins, even as her soprano voice reaches toward the heavens.
Favorite Tracks:
- “Ciaran’s Well”
- “Supremacy”
- “Until My Last Breath”
Rocking Heels: Live at Hellfest is a fantastic live album that showcases Tarja Turunen at the height of her powers. It is a testament to her enduring talent and her commitment to her craft, and it is sure to delight fans old and new alike. With this record, Tarja has once again proven herself to be one of the greatest vocalists in the world of symphonic metal and a true icon of the genre.
Tracklist
No Bitter End
Never Enough
Ciarans Well
Calling From The Wild
Supremacy
Victim Of Ritual
Tutankhamen – Ever Dream – The Riddler Slaying The Dreamer
Die Alive
Until My Last Breath
