It’s very rare we have a Midweek Intermission – similar to the Weekend Intermission where we feature non-Nordic artists and bands – and equally rare that we feature tribute acts.
But with Finland’s Nightwish now into their third year of touring hiatus and with no announcement yet made as to how – if at all – they will celebrate their 30th anniversary this year, I had just had to say something about this tribute band, Night-ish, whom I only discovered fairly recently.
I know there is at least one other UK based cover band for the symphonic metal-ers, Nightwished, but they seem to be on hiatus themselves presently.
I openly admit Nightwish is my favourite band – they are unique – and has been for many years now so there is some self-indulgence here.
But at the same time I have to acknowledge that Night-ish are pretty damn good at what they do. The Finns aren’t easy to copy, the songs are complex compositions in many cases, but they make an excellent fist of it.
I learned that in advance of a UK tour in southern England starting shortly (see socials) – they are based in Bournemouth – they made a rehearsal video of a performance of the epic, seminal ‘Ghost Love Score’, which I’ve previously identified as one of the greatest songs ever written, in any genre.
This isn’t your average tribute band. It must be terrifically hard to play this song, replete with numerous key and time signature changes, even in the intro, and this is an excellent version which makes me want to see them touring more widely. After all the chance of seeing the real thing ever again seems to diminish by the day.
They’re tight, compact and without any weaknesses, which can happen in tribute and cover bands.
Bereft of some of the trickery that Nightwish has at its disposal the arrangement is brilliant, especially of the keys and the orchestral parts in the bridge and the singer (Irene) makes a very passable interpretation of Floor Jansen’s vocal delivery. I just wish she’d hung on to those big notes a little longer. I’m sure she could do and equally sure she’ll grow into the role.
And she has enough hair for a windmill or two…
(Continues after the video)
The current lineup is:
Irene Palmas – Main vocals, Tin Whistle (yes, she’s Troy as well!)
Jordan Averchenko – Guitar, Vocals
Ian Stephenson – Bass
Ryan Bareham – Keyboards
Steve Fletcher – Drums
John Maggs – Stage effects
Find them on:
Website: https://www.nightish.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560662745531
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nightish_tribute/
