Angels Fall First

Angels Fall First is the debut on which NIGHTWISH combined acoustic resonance, racing metal and Tarja Turunen’s classical voice. It is not as large-scale as later years, but its plainness strengthens the dreamlike atmosphere. Born from Tuomas Holopainen’s vision, it is the band’s memorable starting point. On “Elvenpath,” “Beauty And The Beast” and “The Carpenter,” the contrast of quiet songs and powerful songs advances the album like a small story. Songs like “Astral Romance” and “Know Why The Nightingale Sings” breathe an early, fresh appeal too. Here is the prototype of what was said to have been first conceived as Holopainen’s acoustic project. It is a precious record that captured the moment the band’s symphonic worldview sprouted.