After first single was released, we saw a side of Nightwish that was a lot softer. “Elan” although still just as majestic as the signature Nightwish style, the single was a lot less metal than the band have sounded previously. Difference in an album is always a good quality, showcasing the bands various influences and giving birth to new ideas. However second single “Shudder Before The Beautiful“, is a lot more straightforward. This being the first track on the album, it opens up Endless Forms Most Beautiful, with more than a bit of “Elan”. Here we see the triumphant victorious battle hymns reappear, distortion turned up, the song overall is just a lot more energetic.
Though this is by no means a dig at previous single, like I mentioned before its always good to have contrasts on an album, otherwise the record has a danger of becoming stale. Opening the album up “Shudder Before The Beautiful” is a fantastic overture and even features guitar and keyboard solo’s! Tastefully orchestrated of course its a fantastic setting of the musical scene so to speak. Set to be the most anticipated album of the bands career, not to mention the biggest undertaking. The symphonic element soars and if this opener is anything to go by then the majesty of Nightwish might not ever be questioned again!
You can listen to the new song where it is premiering exclusively at Helsingin Sanomat by clicking the artwork above!
