Nightwish Members, Gear & Sound
Finnish symphonic metal
Members
Select a Nightwish band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Nightwish is a Finnish symphonic metal band known for their elaborate compositions, operatic vocals, and theatrical live performances. Formed in 1996 by Tuomas Holopainen (keyboards, primary composer), the group includes Floor Jansen (vocals), Emppu Vuorinen (guitar), Jukka Nevalainen (drums), Marco Hietala (bass, vocals), and Troy Donockley (uilleann pipes, flutes). Nightwish has carved a niche in the metal scene with their blend of symphonic metal, power metal, and gothic rock, achieving worldwide acclaim and becoming one of Finland's most successful musical exports.
How to Sound Like Nightwish
Nightwish's sonic landscape is built on lush orchestral arrangements and powerful, emotive vocals, creating a grandiose and immersive experience. Their music is characterized by rich, melodic textures and dynamic contrasts, fusing operatic elements with metal's intensity. Emppu Vuorinen's guitar work often utilizes the Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier to deliver both soaring leads and heavy riffs, while Tuomas Holopainen's keyboard prowess is showcased through instruments like the KORG Oasys 88-Key Workstation, which provides orchestral and cinematic layers. The band's use of folk instruments, particularly through Troy Donockley's contributions, adds a unique, ethereal quality, further enhancing their epic and dramatic sound.
Discography
Angels Fall First
1997
Oceanborn
1998
Wishmaster
2000
From Wishes To Eternity (Live)
2001
Century Child
2002
Over The Hills And Far Away
2002
Once
2004
Bless the Child - The Rarities
2006
End of an Era (Live)
2006
'The Sounds of Nightwish Reborn: Early Demos for "Dark Passion Play" and B-Sides'
2007
Dark Passion Play
2007
Bye Bye Beautiful
2008
The Sound of Nightwish Reborn
2008
Walking in the Air - the Greatest Ballads
2011
Imaginaerum
2011
Imaginaerum (The Score)
2012
Showtime, Storytime (Live, at Wacken, 2013)
2013
Vehicle of Spirit: Wembley Arena (Live)
2017
Decades
2018
Decades: Live in Buenos Aires
2019
HUMAN. :II: NATURE.
2020
Yesterwynde
2024
Get the Nightwish Sound
Want to sound like Nightwish? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
