Nightwish
Over The Hills And Far Away

THE REVIEW

After the success garnered with "Wishmaster" in 2000, Nightwish decided to release this EP to keep fans satisfied until Century Child. It's an album half recorded in the studio and half live. The first part consists of four tracks: the title track, 10th Man Down, Away, and the remake of Astral Romance.

The title track is a cover of Gary Moore, masterfully reinterpreted here "à la Nightwish," with choirs, violins, and, naturally, almost operatic vocals.
10th Man Down, in my opinion, is the best of the lot. It's a very dark song that, in some ways, might evoke One by Metallica (both for the themes, the intro of gunfire and bombs, and the final outburst). In this song, Tarja's crystalline voice alternates with Wilska's demonic growl (also featured on Oceanborn), creating a beautiful sonic contrast. This song can be considered the transition point from "cheerful" albums like Wishmaster to darker and more powerful ones like Century Child and Once. Away is a sad and melancholic ballad that was supposed to be part of the previous album. Even though it is very beautiful and "tear-jerking," it remains somewhat anonymous in context. The fourth track is the completely unnecessary remake of Astral Romance, included just to "fill space." It's curious to hear how in the original version it tied into classic metal, while here it is (unfortunately) rearranged in a power manner.

As I mentioned, the second part is a live recording from Finland. For some reason, it doesn't convince me at all. Technically, it is an excellent live recording: impeccable production, perfect setlist, and good technique from the musicians, but the problem is that it's too "cold," without emotions, it doesn't draw you into the atmosphere. In short, the only flaw in a good discography like that of the Finnish combo.