Tuomas Holopainen is a name well known in the Symphonic Metal genre as the mastermind behind Symphonic pioneers Nightwish. Tuomas has reached out by himself wanting to create music away from Nightwish and also completely different from what we all know him as. Tuomas has just released his first solo album titled Life and times of Scrooge inspired by the classic Disney tale of Scrooge McDuck.
First and foremost this is not a Metal album; this is clearly an album that shows another side of Tuomas and also other influences and shows his fans what else inspires him.
Tuomas uses his usual orchestral elements but has added different instruments such as Irish horn, harmonica, banjo, guitar, violin, and the didgeridoo. These instruments are used as the lead in different songs. There are some vocal and narration parts that tell parts of the story, the music also tells the story which different themes such as Irish Folk and an old American West feel.
Metal lovers will not like this album as it is more of a classical album than a heavy album. I personally do like it as it is different from his previous work.
The only way a metal lover could enjoy this album is if they do not wait for the metal to come in as you will be disappointed – much like waiting for a guitar solo in St Anger. For people who are fans of Tuomas and recognize his work well this album is for you. Remember the music tells this classic take of Scrooge and it’s an album to listen to while relaxing.
Tuomas Holopainen: Facebook
Release Year: 2014
Label: Nuclear Blast Records
Category: Album
Country: Finland
Reviewed by Brent Logan
