Once cover

Released 22 years ago this June

Once

Nightwish · 2004

69 min · 13 tracks · power metal · symphonic metal

Epic orchestral arrangements blend seamlessly with powerful vocals and intricate guitar riffs in a theatrical metal landscape.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with climactic peaks
  • theatrical moments for dramatic listening
  • epic soundscapes for immersive journeys
  • emotional highs and lows throughout

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking straightforward, quick tracks
  • prefer minimalist arrangements and simplicity

Where this album fits

Themes
theatrical storytelling· operatic despair
Career context
Released on June 6, 2004, 'Once' was Nightwish's fifth studio album, marking a significant transition as it showcased the band's first collaboration with vocalist Anette Olzon. This album followed the commercially successful 'Century Child' and represented a deeper exploration of their symphonic metal sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Within Temptation· Epica· Therion
Sounds like this from elsewhere
The Divine Conspiracy by Epica — Shares grand orchestral arrangements and operatic vocals with dramatic storytelling.
Mother Earth by Within Temptation — Combines lush symphonic elements with powerful female vocals and thematic depth.
The Black Halo by Kamelot — Features theatrical songwriting and a blend of orchestral metal that echoes similar emotional landscapes.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Dark Chest of Wonders 4:28
  • 2 Wish I Had an Angel 4:06
  • 3 Nemo 4:36
  • 4 Planet Hell 4:38
  • 5 Creek Mary’s Blood 8:29
  • 6 The Siren 4:45
  • 7 Dead Gardens 4:28
  • 8 Romanticide 4:58
  • 9 Ghost Love Score 10:02
  • 10 Kuolema tekee taiteilijan 3:58
  • 11 Higher Than Hope 5:38
  • 12 White Night Fantasy 4:04
  • 13 Live to Tell the Tale 4:58

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata