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THE REVIEW
The popularity of Nightwish has been growing exponentially over the years, and not just in their native Finland. To satisfy the Nightwish devotees, Spinefarm offers us a maxi single containing a cover, two unreleased tracks, a new version of "Astral Romance" and six live tracks.
The cover "Over the Hills and Far Away" by Gary Moore is a nice piece that sticks in your head immediately (thanks to the legendary chorus), and let's be honest, it's definitely fun. The first of the two unreleased tracks, "10th Man Down" is really a great piece, with heavier guitars compared to previous Nightwish albums (let's remember we are in 2001): a perfect meeting point between Wishmaster and Century Child. "Away" is a very sweet ballad with a soft atmosphere and an excellent Tarja.
I find the reissue of "Astral Romance" worthy of note, if not for the male singing: no longer the work of Tuomas but of guest star Tony Kakko: A definite leap in quality. The live tracks are wonderful and take on a new dimension. The faster and more intense pieces were chosen: an excellent choice. The pieces are performed impeccably, even sped up compared to the CDs. Tarja doesn't miss a note and even improvises particular trills.
One step above the others "The Beauty And The Beast" is beautiful as usual but instead of Tuomas's flat notes we have Tony Kakko again and "Walking In The Air" which is even more evocative.
Of course, it's a product suitable only for Nightwish fans and collectors (also considering the price, equal to that of a CD of unreleased tracks and the absence of a real booklet), but even if you don't belong to one of these categories, it's worth considering.
"...Over the hills and far away…"
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Summary by Bot
This review covers Nightwish's maxi single 'Over The Hills And Far Away,' highlighting the catchy Gary Moore cover and two unreleased tracks with contrasting styles. Tony Kakko's guest vocals enhance 'Astral Romance,' while the live tracks impress with energy and skill. Although best suited for fans and collectors, the release remains an engaging listen. The reviewer appreciates the musical evolution and performance quality throughout.Tracklist Lyrics Videos
Nightwish
Nightwish is a Finnish symphonic metal band formed in 1996 by Tuomas Holopainen. The group is known for combining metal instrumentation with orchestral arrangements; early and highly praised releases include Oceanborn, Wishmaster, Century Child and Once. The band underwent a high-profile vocalist change (Tarja Turunen replaced by Anette Olzon) that is frequently discussed in reviews.31 Reviews
Other reviews
By Big D
10th Man Down... can be considered the transition point from 'cheerful' albums like Wishmaster to darker and more powerful ones like Century Child and Once.
The live recording is technically excellent but too 'cold,' without emotions, it doesn’t draw you into the atmosphere.
