Dark Passion Play cover

Dark Passion Play

Nightwish · 2007

149 min · 26 tracks · power metal · symphonic metal

Epic orchestral arrangements collide with soaring operatic vocals and heavy metal riffs, creating a dramatic soundscape.

Why this album works

'Dark Passion Play' debuted at number one in several countries and became the band's highest-charting album in the U.S., solidifying their position in the symphonic metal genre. The album received critical acclaim for its ambitious production and thematic depth, influencing many subsequent bands within the genre.
Best for
epic soundscapes for introspection dynamic progression with resolution sweeping orchestral arrangements
Context
Released on September 26, 2007, 'Dark Passion Play' was Nightwish's first album featuring vocalist Anette Olzon after Tarja Turunen's departure. This marked a significant shift in the band's sound and public perception, as they transitioned from their previous era into a new chapter of their career.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 The Poet and the Pendulum Standout 13:54
  • 2 Bye Bye Beautiful Standout 4:14
  • 3 Amaranth Standout 3:51
  • 4 Cadence of Her Last Breath 4:14
  • 5 Master Passion Greed 6:02
  • 6 Eva 4:25
  • 7 Sahara 5:47
  • 8 Whoever Brings the Night 4:17
  • 9 For the Heart I Once Had 3:55
  • 10 The Islander 5:05
  • 12 7 Days to the Wolves 7:03
  • 13 Meadows of Heaven 7:12
  • 14 Reach (Amaranth demo version) 3:52

Disc 2

  • 1 The Poet and the Pendulum (instrumental) 13:54
  • 2 Bye Bye Beautiful (instrumental) 4:14
  • 3 Amaranth (instrumental) 3:51
  • 4 Cadence of Her Last Breath (instrumental) 4:14
  • 5 Master Passion Greed (instrumental) 6:02
  • 6 Eva (instrumental) 4:25
  • 7 Sahara (instrumental) 5:47
  • 8 Whoever Brings the Night (instrumental) 4:17
  • 9 For the Heart I Once Had (instrumental) 3:56
  • 10 The Islander (instrumental) 5:05
  • 11 Last of the Wilds (instrumental) 5:40
  • 12 7 Days to the Wolves (instrumental) 7:04
  • 13 Meadows of Heaven (instrumental) 7:09

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata