ION INDIE MAGAZINE July 2015, Volume 14 | Page 41

On May the 3rd, the Finnish Symphonic Metal Band, NIGHTWISH invaded TRICKY FALLS here in El Paso, Texas--and when I say “invaded”…that's an understatement! The line to get into the venue wrapped around the building. Doors were open at 7:00 p.m. and they started lining up at 3:00 p.m. Now I felt somewhat stupid, because I wasn't familiar with them at all, but 1500 people from El Paso were, as it was a sold out show! The band is from Kitee, Finland, and have been together since 1996. Their first release was in 1997, titled "Angels Fall First". They have released eight albums in 18 years and are the most successful Finnish band worldwide; selling more than 8 million records with 60 gold and platinum awards, 5 number one albums and 13 number one singles. Nightwish Bass Player Marco Hietala with ION Photojournalist Timothy Schumann They had such a huge stage presence, that the venue had to put on a four foot stage extension to accommodate the band. That is a first for me, since I shoot so many shows at Tricky…never had I seen this before. Once they hit the stage, the place came unglued with songs like “While Your Lips Are Still Red", "Nemo" and "End Of All Hope". And talk about stage presence! FLOOR JENSEN, the towering lead singer, was definitely something to behold! All in all, it was a fantastic show. I did speak to a few people after the show that were huge fans and they were just moved beyond belief, telling me that this type of music had changed their lives in certain situations. I too concur--it was one of the best shows I have seen in quite some time. Please check them out if given the chance…and I know we'll both be in agreement! www.nightwish.com • www.facebook.com/nightwish