Hey Folks! Apologies for the editing mistake after the song. This was a lot to digest and I'm sure I could have made a 2 hour video, but these are my initial thoughts. I may do a follow-up video at some point because my head is still reeling from this initial viewing. Cheers! Eric
I keep going back and watching your Nightwish reactions---the Floor era, I love Floor---and I am amazed at how an American music industry professional appreciates the magic these artists create. This, knowing that Nightwish has never had any more than a tiny, minutely fractional presence in the American music sphere. I'm in my 60s and can easily say these people changed my life. Maybe it's because I did not discover Nightwish until I retired 4+ years ago? Regardless, I enjoy your reactions and I hope others in the American music industry take your lead and pay attention to Tuomas, Floor, et al. p.s. As many below have mentioned, you should watch the Tampere version of this track. Yes, it's too late to do a reaction video, but you will marvel at that live performance.
It's interesting to note that Tuomas, genius that he is, incorporates an Easter egg in the opening six note keyboard sequence. And that's the atomic number of carbon: C6. The origin of us all.
I was lucky enough to see them live in Chicago this past May. I am a 50 yo man who has probably heard this song 100 times between the record and live versions. When they played this and immediately closed with Ad Astra ....I was physically standing on the ground but I was floating above the venue with every other soul that was there. It literally brought a tear to my eye screaming "We were here" Incredible
also .. that in this North American tour they had to tone down light show to very basic and the shows were still freaking amazing without the special effects .. I saw them in Toronto, Montreal and Lowell ... now trying to figure out where to get time and money to see Nightwish in Europe
Saw them in Boston. The end of the show with Last Ride of the Day, Ghost Love Score, Greatest Show on Earth and Ad Astra was such an amazing and uplifting experience. I have never left a concert more motivated to experience life and to work to make it better.
I agree 100% - this is an experience that separates you from your earthbound plane and essentially plays with your soul and emotions like nothing else. I’ve never had mental and emotional nourishment feeding my senses like that!
It's a travesty that Nightwish is not recognized widely for what they are, they should be up there with the legends such as Queen and Pink Floyd. Unfortunately the low quality fast food American idol centered music industry makes people ignorant and blind. It is a tragedy that the band will never reach the legendary status they so deserve. I feel sad for all the people who walks through life, never discovering the greatness of this band.
@@mrgoofie4849 amongst metal heads yes, but not to the wider audience they deserve and in the US they're pretty much unheard of. Considering how immensely talented and good they are, it's a travesty.
Screaming "we were here" was amazing. I was at the first US show and I preordered the album and played it on our way to Atlanta to see them. I told my wife they would never play such a long song in the live show. I WAS SO WRONG, ending the show with that song left me in awww.
Maybe why Enter Sandman was used as the example of metal in the evolution of music is that Tuomas was taken to a Metallica show in the early 90s, his first exposure to metal and that's when the coin dropped about what he wanted to be.
Having Enter Sandman used there also includes kind of a word play. The lyrics do include "Enter LUCA", "Enter life", "Enter the God of gaps", "Enter Ionia", "Enter history", "Enter ratkind" and then finally there's Enter Sandman played.
Without doubt the best reaction to this masterpiece I've ever seen. I was waiting a long time for it, and it didn't disappoint. On the approach to the musical history section I was watching your face closely because I KNEW you were going to pick up on it, and sure enough I could see you frowning in wonder at what you were hearing. Fantastic stuff Eric. Love your reactions and intelligent, deep comments.
I had so much hope in you to grasp the evolution of music, not just either Metallica or Johann Sebastian Bach, and you sure didn't disappoint. Thank you so much! This reaction was a true delight. Have fun pondering on the interwoven bits and pieces that Tuomas has conjured in here. Cheers from Germany 🤘
Keep listening to the music evolution part too. I read an interview where Tuomas said he didn't think anyone would ever find all the music he used in it.
In addition to my earlier comment. I'd love to see you react to "All the Works of Nature Which Adorn the World", which makes up the entirety of CD2 of Nightwish's Human :||: Nature album. It's a 30 minute classical suite composed and arranged by Tuomas. Specifically, the video you should watch is by Sensai Music Videos, which is a Tuomas-endorsed fan video with fantastic visuals to accompany the music
I concur! You can always listen to it without visuals, but that fan video(which somehow made it to Tuomas and got his stamp of approval!) is so moving.
Fantastic reaction like always 😊. 4 me, Tampere is more epic, because it was an Open Air performance in Finland in front of Floor's parents, the show itself, Floor dressed like the goddess herself etc. The part Floor is coming out of the dark, singing the "Opus perfectum" and is returning into the darkness, is the most epic NW moment in a live show of all time imo. One reason to return to Tampere and watch this version again... and again.... 😍
Comparatively, this version is sloppy after you watch the Tampere version. The different intro is better, the video & sound quality is better, the production is better. It's an overall better experience for the viewer
This is a Mammoth of a song. No other band can or want do this. You should do also the 'Tampere 2015 version'. As a patriotic Finn I found it even a little more epic (if possible?).
I waited all of this time to hear what's Eric gonna say about Tampere performance, and man, was I disappointed. Tampere is just the pinnacle, unmatched, performance is better in every way, even Marco and Floor were in better vocal form there.
I watched your reaction with great pleasure, late last night, after I returned home from the Nightwish concert in Bucharest :) I still have a background noise in my ears that will persist for a while, according to all probabilities. Sorry for not commenting last night, but I fell asleep almost instantly afterwards. Yes, that is the extent of this unique work, which "only" covers the entire history of our planet. It reminds me of a wise saying I heard many years ago: "Don't cry because it's over, be happy because it happened." Musically, I consider it a modern symphony, not inferior to the creations of the great classical composers. This is the true level of Tuomas Holopainen.
I had the opportunity to take my little sisters hand and jump with joy WE WE HERE at Tampere in this spring. After horrible, many painful years, we almost lost each other, we had a chance to enjoy this ultimate truth and beauty together...
If doing a follow-up video I STRONGLY suggest checking out the Tampere version while you are at it. A different treatment and atmosphere, and simply astonishingly awesome. Cheers!! 🤘🤘
Seeing a thinking man "react" (an insufficient word for what I just witnessed) to this masterpiece was a real treat. Tuomas used the entire spectrum in this one, and the band translated it flawlessly- and you got it. It'll still be amazing you after a hundred views. Thank you!
This song with Floor singing is best as it can be when talking of Nightwish. It couldn't be this great with past two singers (sorry). And those who says Nightwish isn't as good anymore when there isn't Tarja or Marko... This song proves that as long as there is Tuomas there is Nightwish. And they still perform this song without Marko and it's still amazing! I could praise Tuomas for ever and ever and I would never find enough words. I'm so happy I found him and Nightwish. Even though it took long time! ❤️
I concur! Nightwish is Tuomas! Without his poesie, his composition, there ist no Nightwish. I do love all members, I miss Marko! I appreciate all their solo projects, but in my opinion, they do not even reach the "heels" of Tuomases music
Lots of colors here Eric. I can see that you see hem, just like me. I was at their second Amsterdam show on nov. 28 and they finished with this monumental song. And that was a epic show ending. Like your comments veru=y much. Honest and to the point. Keep it up my friend.
Hey Eric , even if you enjoyed the Wembley version still watch the Tampere show please do , in my opinion it's the better show outside with fireworks & the reading & ending is pretty awesome 😍, love you're reactions - Thank you 😊.
Eric you are the best! Nobody offers better analysis than you. Knew you’d do this masterpiece justice! Just because you’ve done the big ones now, doesn’t mean that there still isn’t a LOT of greatness to discover with Nightwish. Keep exploring! WE WERE HERE!
I feel very much the same way about Uillean pipes. There’s something about them that always cuts straight to my heart and moves me in a way no other instrument (with the possible exception of a French horn) can. To me, it speaks of loneliness and loss, but in a peaceful and cathartic way. Like, yeah I’m sad, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing and I know it’ll be alright in the end. It’s like therapeutic tears, allowing yourself a moment to grieve so you can move on and heal.
I feel sorry for people that will not hear this or choose not to listen to this incredible music. What other music can devour all thoughts and emotions and simply give a person a great feeling at the end ? Universally excellent !! 20 minutes seems like 10 or less. It’s a joy, to live in this time of Toumas. Musical awesomeness !
Some bands I’m happy to listen to. Listening and watching Nightwish is a privilege to experience 6 virtuoso performances that meld into one they are all musical and artistic giants
I was there! And you're right they put me in my own little world but was still connected. Thanks for bringing the nostalgia back to me, I really needed it this week. Once again you put the feelings that Nightwish invoke in me into words. You pick up on everything in one listen that took me weeks of listening to hear. It's 1am in the UK and my neighbours will be pissed coz I just had to sing along and headbang. All the goosebumps and shivers and hair standing on end moments came back. Thank you Eric, you really are a brother. If you're ever in the UK, find me, I owe you a beer!
The Bach phrase was an organ fugue from the second movement of BMV 565 in D minor. This is the best song for every reason you stated, in every way possible and you once again gave it the utmost respect and amazing insights
I wonder if that was a homage to the French animation series "once upon a time"? It was running in most nordic countries, and it might be this also was picked up by a young Tuomas? The series is about earth and it's history. How it was formed development of the species... but most is about history of man. And yes it uses that Bach tune as intro.
I think I saw so many reactions to this song, which is my favourite overall song in this universe. And Mr. Wylde, with your reaction, you hit a so many nails (evolution of the universe, evolution of species, evolution of man, evolution of arts, of music, of poetry, of humanity, of politics...). The best and most multiperspective reaction to this masterpiece, Hats off! And thank you for choosing the Wembley-Version, its more intimate and more content focused.
I love to see that this masterpiece of music history blew you away as much as me when I first heard it. All I can say is that this band changed me forever. And it's crazy because I've only been listening to them consciously for 3 months! Discovering Nightwish is like a kind of science, like the doctoral thesis of music. I believe that the Uilleann Pipes touches you so much because it is so original as an instrument and just speaks to our soul on a deeper level.
First of all Eric. Great reaction you sure did this masterpiece of a song justice. Even if I have a hard time calling it a ”song”, it’s more then just a song, track or what ever. The techno beat you discovered is from Sandstorm by Darude. I am not sure if you reacted to the opening song of the concert, Shrudder before the beautiful. If not, you got to check that one out. That’s how you open a show!
I concur 👍🏻 Since it does not only open the topic of the 'shudder before' the grandeur of all that surrounds us and all we experience (Greatest Show 😉) as humans, being some parts of the 'forms most beautyful' 😅😉😂 and therefore perfectly fits to the ending with TGSOE in my opinion 🤗, but also describes literally how I feel about what Nightwish and Floor are doing to me with every song, evoking emotions of awe and sheer gratitude for all their healing and inspiring music and Tuomas' poetry 🥰
You found the Easter eggs! Yeah that was Bach in the beginning...the evolution of music as well ;) It is insane how much detail they put in their music and lyrics. This song is written by Tuomas and marko. Marko created a big part of the lyrics. I showed this my children and they said they learned more from this song than history at school. (teens) Awesome reaction. I think we all feel emtional overwelmed by this master piece. I am also an adventurer and want to see and exerience as much as possible in my life. It is exactly how I feel about life, but to hear it makes it even stronger. I will see them live in November again in Floor's home country, in Amsterdam! YAY Thanks Sir!
A very good understanding Eric, most do not get into it that deep, now. . . . . . . . Man, he took his time in the sun (us now) Had a dream to understand A single grain of sand In this second iteration, the first two bars of Metallica “Enter the Sandman” are played as a nod to them, one of the first HM bands to work with an orchestra and the sand reference. Metallica is rather a favourite of Tuomas too as they set him off on a musical path. There are several Easter eggs in this too with some phrases from classical and pop music too. Someone said, and I take no credit for this analysis, the little hidden melody bits were some African tribal drumming, a medieval hymn (Dies Irae), Johan Sebastian Bach (Christian Petzold) - Minuet in G major and Toccata & Fugue in D minor, American banjo music, Metallica - Enter Sandman and the bassline from Nightwish - I Wish I Had An Angel. Also Megadeth - Symphony of Destruction. The chances of us as individuals being here now? 400 trillion to one against. We have always been here, we're made of the space dust and condensing gasses from the big bang, everything before us is still here in a different state and everybody and everything to come is here, as yet un-assembled, we are a universe as the atoms and molecules that make us look like and we have come from a universe. If you didn't know Eric, the scientific community knows all about Nightwish and Tuomas' scientifically accurate writing, you may not know of these recent discoveries appropriately named: Tmesisternus floorjansenae - A beetle Sciophila holopaineni - A shadow loving Insect Tanidromites nightwishorum - A Species of Crab Ophiomitrella Floorae - An hitherto unknown brittle star species that lived in the Cretaceous era named after Floor Jansen - and the Alpenglow Rockshelter - a prehistoric rockshelter discovered in Pennsylvania, USA which is located just a few hundred meters from the Council Rocks archaeoastronomy (Stonehenge-type) site from at least 1825 BC, some 4000 years before present. You did a truly grand job of this Eric, I applaud you.
Thank you for your reaction. I often cry when I listen to Nightwish. Toumas knows how to bring emotion through music and lyrics. Its so beautiful. He and Nightwish deserves to be known better in the US. I saw them in a small venue in Atlanta. It was amazing. And that was with Annette.
One of the most precious moments of my life was presenting Tuomas with my 150yr old Origin of Species book by Charles Darwin as a way to say thank you for changing my life. The concluding words of that book that also concluded this most majestic song. What a truly incredible honour! I took the most magical journey to Kitee, Finland with a very special friend and its something that will always be a part of me now. FOREVER
@@marita2g He said wow, this is a 150yr old book.. looked at me and was very humble. He mentioned about it being one of the most important books ever. Then said he may put it in Nightwish museum or personal library. It was such a meaningful thing.. I can´t describe it really. I just think inside myself, I´m so grateful for Nightwish and the emotions they have brought to my life.
@@laudatosiadastra1218 Wow! Aww. That’s so sweet. 😄 He should definitely put one in the museum. As it has had such an impact on him. Ooh. You gave him the book? 😯 Wow! I see why you can’t describe it. Same here, I’m so grateful and I will be forever 😄
We’ll done my man. Great breakdown., it’s always good to see the emotion on your face when listening to this wonderful band. My brother went to see them in Chicago a few months ago and was blown away by the skill of the musicianship and Floors vocals. He is one of the few who had never listened to Nightwish at all until he saw them live in concert. After the concert he devoured all he could of the band on UA-cam and then proclaimed that no matter the online quality of the live recordings it pales into insignificance when compared to having the music and vocals break over you in a live venue.
Its been a long time coming but boy was it worth the wait!! I feel like I just had a 45 minute conversation about life, death, the universe, evolution, philosophy, music and many more things.....and yet I never said a word!!! Bravo, possibly the best reaction to one of the best songs ever written.
One of the best reactions that I have seen to this song, and I've seen a few. "It's as if Pink Floyd and Queensrÿche had a baby" and he shall be named Tuomas. Well done. Much love from the Nightwish army in New York 🤗
In my opinion this had been the most empathic and intelligent comment to this experience. You had been able to express and name what so many people feel when listening to GSOE but cannot say. I have subscribed to your channel.
Excellent job picking all that up, especially LUCA and Lucy. Still waiting for someone to comment on "ion channels" though. ;) Here's the London Philharmonic playing the backing track to this piece: ua-cam.com/video/73pOKXXX6Qs/v-deo.html. Tuomas wrote this as well.
You should take time, turn volume up and watch Tampere version too. This is more about song and Tampere is More The Show. I'm interested to hear what you think about that.
Though i disagree with a pop scientist like Dawkins who crossed the river into the murky theological waters , we can love the beautiful musical rendition of creation. Absolutely the greatest opus of love and beauty. We are and our blessed.
This video showcases why your reactions can be regarded as the gold standard for reactions! Excellent and most enjoyable how you did this musical masterpiece justice. I hope you consider "Endless Forms Most Beautiful" official Lyric Video, and then doing a series at some point on the Human:||:Nature disk 1 from start to finish, as it shows Thomas's and the bands direction following TGSOE (because, I mean, where does one go after creating something like this...) Blessings and warm wishes from Namibia
This was the best reaction I have watched for a long time. Greetings from Finland. Most likely this coming weekend, I am able to go and hear Nightwish.
There's a fan video documentary "To Nightwish, With Love" where several fans talk about what NW means to them, dealing with the changes, and whatnot, and part of it is several of the fans get to go to this concert, flying in from all over the world, and meet the band. (some of those fans will look familiar to those who watch the DVDs for Wacken, Wembley, and Please Learn The Set-list in 48 hours) Tuomas is telling how he just can't get why some people get all flustered and hold him in such high esteem and worship him and the band like a cult , and he can't see why they act like they do, and the fans next to him seem to deflate a bit one girl apologizes, but he assures them that they were not all that bad, but tells them to concentrate on the music and enjoying it, then he mentions he got to meet Dawkins, and he almost fainted so he kinda sees where it is coming from. I'll also add taking a look at the Tampere version for a slightly different rendition. Troy does Whistles instead of E-bow, and Fireworks are involved.
I would have said Tampere because I think it is generally a better performance, the outdoor atmosphere and fireworks, and Troy gets more focus.... but they are both great and in this you get Dawkins. Oh, I almost forgot, Tampere has Floor's double helix dress in Finnish national colours......
It's honestly a privilege to be able to hear and connect with this piece of music. It's genuinely my favourite piece of music of all time. The journey it takes me on is unmatched by anything else. This song is a good example of why I always say it's been a pleasure to grow up and change alongside Nightwish. When I was in my teen years I was listening to their more power metal-y sound, because that's how I felt. But by the time this album came out, I was in university and really starting to appreciate the world for what it was. This isn't even a song I listen to very often, because I save it for the good headphones when I have time to appreciate it either inside and uninterrupted or in the peaceful countryside. Those bagpipes (Uilleann pipes) really are something special. We all feel something slightly different, but regardless it so clearly resonates with all of us. For me, when I hear that section I feel incredibly grounded with the earth. As if all these artificial stresses and distractions we've created suddenly don't exist and I can feel the planet's energy run through my veins. Absolutely gorgeous. Also, trust you out of all people to catch onto the "Evolution of music"! I think everyone can recognise a lot is going on in that section but it takes some real thought to realise they are taking us through the history of music.
@The Wyldeside with Eric Clark I have watched EVERY reaction video of this masterpiece, and YOU, Sir, are the ONLY one who GOT IT! You have restored a small amount of my faith in the human race...thank you! You also demonstrated pretty every emotion I experienced, but did not really understand.
Now you need to watch the Tempere version, because so much happens, especially at the end that will mean something to you. The song also differs at the beginning and you WILL want to comment on it. This is seriously the most important composition of my life time, and both deserve a reaction due to their impact and meaning. I'm all for the meaning of Richard Dawkins reciting the final paragraph of The Origin of Species, which is a recorded recitation at Tempere, which must be played to the VERY end, but everything else at Tempere is superior in my opinion. Floor is at a completely different emotional level because it was the first time her parents were in the audience to see her perform with Nightwish, and the staging was without peer. At the end, I always think back to Lord of the Rings final scene at Gondor ... "you should bow to no one!" That's how I feel about Nightwish. As always, you are unparalleled in your analysis and I have been eagerly awaiting this particular review. Thanks for all you do, Eric!
No one member of the band is greater than the other when they are playing. They all pull back to let the next shine through when it's required musically. Great reaction, new subscriber. It will take another listen or two and Tempere is it's own spectacle that should be taken in also. Also, your final comments at the end about taking in the world. If you haven't done it yet, it's time to listen to "Noise" off the latest album "Human Nature."
Album Human:Nature demands total absorbance as whole. Not just piece by piece. Sure it works. But for intelligent and patient listeners really rewards your attention.
The final lines recited by Dawkins are Charles Darwin's closing words in "The Origin of Species". I wonder what he'd have said if he'd been told they'd someday be recited to audiences of tens of thousands.
I agree with your assessment 100%. I always get that same feeling of duality between nature and science; humans and technology I do love how their visual effects also corresponds with the music and lyrics. I tear up every single time I watch this music video.
Fantastic dissection of this work. I've been waiting for you to get to this one, knowing that it would take you to a wonderful place. When you get a chance, do check out the Tampere version, even if just for your own enjoyment; there are notable differences, and I find it to be more a visual feast.🤘✌
yeah, I was at the Tampere show, and have watched the live bluray tens of times, and i do have to say regarding this track I do prefer the Tampere version. ..but damn that Wembley show was premium, as they got to witness Poet and the Pendulum.
I'm impressed you were able to hear the music evolution out of the interlude. Actually it's not easy to hear, because the mix of the live versions is more focused on the live instruments. There is also a Banjo playing in the mix, you just can't really hear it here. I'd recommend to listen to the studio version as well. There you hear the subtle differences much better.
My best mate of nearly 30 years was at that concert, they started with "Shudder before the Beautiful" went to "Ghost Love Score" and "Poet and the Pendulum" and finished with "the Greatest Show on Earth" that's why Toumas had his head in his hands at the end of this performance the "dead boy" was with his best friend. I hope you can see why Poet in particular was so important when you hear this, can you imagine a world where Toumas took himself out? The sheer joy and wonder we would have missed out on.
As an Evolutionary Biologist, this song really strikes a chord! Saw them in Lowell, MA in 2022. I was singing "We Were Here" at the top of my lungs, not caring who else was around. The fact that the show was not sold out should cause all New Englanders to hang their heads in shame!
I really like your reaction style, and I love how passionate you are about music. This is one of the few reaction videos I've seen where the whole "Bach/Metallica/EDM" thing was picked up, and it was great watching your brain melt when you figured it out -- because every Nightwish fan went through the same thing. Nightwish truly are utter masters of their craft, and can completely change the way you look at modern music. I was introduced to their music back in 1998 with the release of their 2nd album, and it was a keystone moment that's burned in my memory -- to this day I remember exactly who introduced me to it, what song it was, what we were doing at the time, everything -- and they've only gotten better since.
I'm not crying - you're crying..😭😉 I love such emotional reactions!!! Tuomas is a true genius and the quote "We were here" touches me every time! Greetings from London 🤘😎
Thank you Eric. Yes, the evolution of music. The piano intro actually evolves in a classic minimalist way, just a small change with each repetition, reflecting the whole theme, of evolution. Then the evolution of music with plainchant, a very short snatch of the Dies Irae (per Verdi's Requiem), Petzold's Minuet as you correctly identified; Bach's Toccata and Fugue and Emppu playing Metallica, Enter Sandman. And finally the pinnacle of musical evolution: Nightwish.
Appreciate the fact that we are here at the same time this wonderful band is. They make me laugh, feel sad, love and cry. The connection between the fans and the band is like nothing else on this earth.
Great reaction, Eric! Thank you. I love the Wembley version. Troy's E-bow in the opening is mimicking a beautiful cello part that's on the album. I'd also recommend seeing the Tampere show when you can. At that show, the cello part remains. The Tampere show is stunningly beautiful, especially the Greatest Show on Earth performance. There's a moment in the piece when Floor whispers 'Us, Sleeping'. It takes my breath away every time. You'll see what I mean when you watch it.
This is my absolute favorite song from Nightwish. I liked it the first time I heard it. I was sitting in the car then and it came from the radio!!! On the album, it is 24 minutes long, but Tuomas has said in his interviews that the original plan was a song of about 30 minutes! Sometimes I wonder where he cut those 6 minutes from... You found the evolution of that music well, not many people hear it. Or at most they hear that Metallica part. Scientific text comes easily from Tuomas. As a teenager, his wish was to become a marine biologist. He even started university studies, but they only lasted five months. The musician's life won. BTW. As a teenager, Floor also hoped to become a biologist. In her case, too, the music won. It's probably a victory for our ears and soul that those two ended up as music professionals. Although of course I believe they could also have become excellent biologists... 😄☺
If you're interested, here's a minute-long interview with Professor Richard Dawkins right after the concert. Richard Dawkins About Join NIGHTWISH on Stage ua-cam.com/video/rDLgBipPQtM/v-deo.html
During that song, reference (homage) was made to 3 songs. When Floor was narrating her part the reference of the music was (Symphony of Destruction). During another 2 parts of the song, reference in the music was made to Bach and to Metallica. Great reaction from a former radio DJ.
I've always taken Tuomas' dissonant notes right before the Bach part as being a nod to entropy. And after the "Enter Lucy, Luca, and Ionia", of course Empuu got an "enter" in his inimitable voice.
it feels like "I've lost the love of my life but I'm glad to have loved them".. that really hit me... I get it... as heavy and light as it feels at the same time... I understand...going through an extremely difficult time in my life right now.. doesn't make it any easier but I do understand
Oh wow finally! First of all: Thanks for doing this reaction. Made my night! I was one of the Lucky ones at the Tampere show when this was performed with lots of pros. I hope you do that reaction to on this song. You will love that too! ❤️
Yes, there is a lot. And you have noticed more in your first listen than any other reactor I have seen. You're the only one I've seen figure out the evolution of music. Yes, that was J.S.Bach and EDM. That instrument that Troy is playing is the Uilleann (ill-en or ill-yen) pipes, the Irish version of bagpipes that uses a bellows squeezed by the elbow to inflate the bag. Uilleann is the Gaelic word for elbow. Can't go wrong with either version, both are awesome. But, please do check out the Tampere version on your own. The main differences, outside with fireworks, and Troy's part starts with Irish Low Whistle instead of EBOW on guitar. For more of the Uilleann Pipes- I Want My Tears Back from the Buenos Aires 2018 Show
The uilleann pipes also hit me right in the feels. I think, we connect to them so much because they sound similar to a human voice, but at the same time otherworldly. And that instrument has long, slow notes which in general convey a feeling of melancholy or sadness.
I knew you would like this. I mentioned in a comment on another of your videos, this song is the one song that makes me feel human, or more accurately a part of humanity rather than just a loner doing my own thing. It makes me feel connected and hammers home that there is so much that is worthwhile in this world. The reason i suggested a premiere is that during the We Were Here section the chat would have blown up with hundreds of people typing that at once, four times. The best example was in the Nightwish Virtual Show, they had a live chat and the fans crashed it with hundreds of thousands of 'We Were Here' Nonetheless you clearly felt a connection with this song. If you do do a second video on this song, I'll watch it, and hey, it'd give you a chance to hear the Tampere arrangement and check out the, I shit you not, timed fireworks.
Such a magnificent final song and to think that they had already performed The Poet and the Pendulum earlier. What an experience that show must have been. I love the use of the E-bow first and then the Uilleann pipes. Troy is such a talent. In the section which depicts the history of music Gregorian chants etc, missed the banjo before Enter Sandman.
Thank you Eric. You just put to words, after only one listen, many of the reasons why I love this band and song so much. I did indeed forget that everyone was around me when I finally saw them play live this year. I hope you get the chance to see them live sometime as well. It's a uniquely powerful experience.
What I find from their music is it is layered in such a way that the listener experiences relentless waves of magic produced by six of the most talented individuals in rock today and as far back as rock music has been existence. You don’t have time to ingest one aspect before you are hit with further waves. It is lazy to pass any Nightwish production as merely music. They are an emotional and stimulating journey providing the receiver a journey of a lifetime swinging through the full parameters from sadness an desperate loss to amazement and happiness and all points in between. Five magicians and and an enchantress who create spells whose effects last beyond the length of their performance- that’s my view anyway
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![[REACTION!!] Old Rock Radio DJ REACTS to NIGHTWISH ft. "Ghost Love Score"](/img/tr.png)
![[REACTION!!] Old Rock Radio DJ REACTS to NIGHTWISH ft. "HIGH HOPES" (live)](/img/n.gif)
Hey Folks! Apologies for the editing mistake after the song. This was a lot to digest and I'm sure I could have made a 2 hour video, but these are my initial thoughts. I may do a follow-up video at some point because my head is still reeling from this initial viewing.
Cheers!
Eric
No Need to apologize. We know that there is a lot. Still finding details after IDK how many listens.
Awesome. Perhaps do your follow-up after watching the Tampere version. Outdoor is a different vibe. As always, thank you for sharing your perspective.
As always, my favorite reactor with the deepest, most profound insights into music. Always a pleasure to share the time with you.
@@michaelbeecher5958 I concur!
@@michaelbeecher5958 Yes, Tampere version is great.
I keep going back and watching your Nightwish reactions---the Floor era, I love Floor---and I am amazed at how an American music industry professional appreciates the magic these artists create. This, knowing that Nightwish has never had any more than a tiny, minutely fractional presence in the American music sphere. I'm in my 60s and can easily say these people changed my life. Maybe it's because I did not discover Nightwish until I retired 4+ years ago? Regardless, I enjoy your reactions and I hope others in the American music industry take your lead and pay attention to Tuomas, Floor, et al.
p.s. As many below have mentioned, you should watch the Tampere version of this track. Yes, it's too late to do a reaction video, but you will marvel at that live performance.
It's interesting to note that Tuomas, genius that he is, incorporates an Easter egg in the opening six note keyboard sequence. And that's the atomic number of carbon: C6. The origin of us all.
Tampere also has a "thing at the end", it's just a little different. And of course:
Floor: "Enter Luca"
Marko: " Enter Ionia"
Emppu: "Enter Sandman"
Floor: Enter Luca
Marko: Enter Ionia
Thomas: Enter Petzold
Emppu: … Enter Sandman
😂
I was lucky enough to see them live in Chicago this past May. I am a 50 yo man who has probably heard this song 100 times between the record and live versions. When they played this and immediately closed with Ad Astra ....I was physically standing on the ground but I was floating above the venue with every other soul that was there. It literally brought a tear to my eye screaming "We were here" Incredible
also .. that in this North American tour they had to tone down light show to very basic and the shows were still freaking amazing without the special effects .. I saw them in Toronto, Montreal and Lowell ... now trying to figure out where to get time and money to see Nightwish in Europe
i was at the chicago show. it was a mind blowing experience
I was at the NYC show. Months later, I'm still levitating!
Saw them in Boston. The end of the show with Last Ride of the Day, Ghost Love Score, Greatest Show on Earth and Ad Astra was such an amazing and uplifting experience. I have never left a concert more motivated to experience life and to work to make it better.
I agree 100% - this is an experience that separates you from your earthbound plane and essentially plays with your soul and emotions like nothing else. I’ve never had mental and emotional nourishment feeding my senses like that!
"We Were Here" - gets me every time, tears in my eyes, glad to be alive.
I concur.
Euphoria
It's a travesty that Nightwish is not recognized widely for what they are, they should be up there with the legends such as Queen and Pink Floyd. Unfortunately the low quality fast food American idol centered music industry makes people ignorant and blind. It is a tragedy that the band will never reach the legendary status they so deserve. I feel sad for all the people who walks through life, never discovering the greatness of this band.
Agree 100%. It is a travesty.
i concur
The are pretty big in Europe ;)
@@mrgoofie4849 amongst metal heads yes, but not to the wider audience they deserve and in the US they're pretty much unheard of. Considering how immensely talented and good they are, it's a travesty.
Queen also wasn't do popular in US but they was loved by fans,as Nightwish is,they great and we know it
Tuomas is our generations Mozart. It saddens me that most of the will never know of him.
It’s more than music.
Screaming "we were here" was amazing. I was at the first US show and I preordered the album and played it on our way to Atlanta to see them.
I told my wife they would never play such a long song in the live show. I WAS SO WRONG, ending the show with that song left me in awww.
Oh man, this anthem always make me cry, Nightwish the greatest show on earth!
Maybe why Enter Sandman was used as the example of metal in the evolution of music is that Tuomas was taken to a Metallica show in the early 90s, his first exposure to metal and that's when the coin dropped about what he wanted to be.
Having Enter Sandman used there also includes kind of a word play. The lyrics do include "Enter LUCA", "Enter life", "Enter the God of gaps", "Enter Ionia", "Enter history", "Enter ratkind" and then finally there's Enter Sandman played.
After Sandman comes of course Sandstorm by Darude
@@laakeri84 enter sandman could also refer to the final state of sleep or rather eternal rest.
Without doubt the best reaction to this masterpiece I've ever seen. I was waiting a long time for it, and it didn't disappoint. On the approach to the musical history section I was watching your face closely because I KNEW you were going to pick up on it, and sure enough I could see you frowning in wonder at what you were hearing. Fantastic stuff Eric. Love your reactions and intelligent, deep comments.
I concur!
I had so much hope in you to grasp the evolution of music, not just either Metallica or Johann Sebastian Bach, and you sure didn't disappoint. Thank you so much! This reaction was a true delight. Have fun pondering on the interwoven bits and pieces that Tuomas has conjured in here. Cheers from Germany 🤘
Keep listening to the music evolution part too. I read an interview where Tuomas said he didn't think anyone would ever find all the music he used in it.
I concur!
I definitely concur!!
Astoundingly Magnificent.
The end always gets me, a bunch of metal heads listening religiously to a history and musical lecture!
In addition to my earlier comment. I'd love to see you react to "All the Works of Nature Which Adorn the World", which makes up the entirety of CD2 of Nightwish's Human :||: Nature album. It's a 30 minute classical suite composed and arranged by Tuomas. Specifically, the video you should watch is by Sensai Music Videos, which is a Tuomas-endorsed fan video with fantastic visuals to accompany the music
I concur that 😊
I concur.
I concur.
I concur! You can always listen to it without visuals, but that fan video(which somehow made it to Tuomas and got his stamp of approval!) is so moving.
I concur
Fantastic reaction like always 😊. 4 me, Tampere is more epic, because it was an Open Air performance in Finland in front of Floor's parents, the show itself, Floor dressed like the goddess herself etc. The part Floor is coming out of the dark, singing the "Opus perfectum" and is returning into the darkness, is the most epic NW moment in a live show of all time imo. One reason to return to Tampere and watch this version again... and again.... 😍
I concur on all points. 🙂
Yeah I was really hoping he'd do the Tampere show but the reaction itself was so great and genuine that the version ended up not mattering.
Yes, the Tampere version is the superior version of this song. This one feels off.
Comparatively, this version is sloppy after you watch the Tampere version. The different intro is better, the video & sound quality is better, the production is better. It's an overall better experience for the viewer
@@drewciferf3293 both are excellent in their own way. For me Tampere is the red Ferrari, Wembley the black. ;D
This is a Mammoth of a song. No other band can or want do this. You should do also the 'Tampere 2015 version'. As a patriotic Finn I found it even a little more epic (if possible?).
I agree tbh - the fireworks finish (pun intended) is better than bringing Dawkins out, I mean esp after he's gone anti-woke
I waited all of this time to hear what's Eric gonna say about Tampere performance, and man, was I disappointed. Tampere is just the pinnacle, unmatched, performance is better in every way, even Marco and Floor were in better vocal form there.
@@AleksandarGospic Anglosaxons choose always the Wembley arena, which is good of course, but...😎👍
I watched your reaction with great pleasure, late last night, after I returned home from the Nightwish concert in Bucharest :) I still have a background noise in my ears that will persist for a while, according to all probabilities. Sorry for not commenting last night, but I fell asleep almost instantly afterwards.
Yes, that is the extent of this unique work, which "only" covers the entire history of our planet. It reminds me of a wise saying I heard many years ago: "Don't cry because it's over, be happy because it happened." Musically, I consider it a modern symphony, not inferior to the creations of the great classical composers. This is the true level of Tuomas Holopainen.
I had the opportunity to take my little sisters hand and jump with joy WE WE HERE at Tampere in this spring. After horrible, many painful years, we almost lost each other, we had a chance to enjoy this ultimate truth and beauty together...
♥️
If doing a follow-up video I STRONGLY suggest checking out the Tampere version while you are at it. A different treatment and atmosphere, and simply astonishingly awesome. Cheers!! 🤘🤘
I concur
Major concurrence here!
I concur!
Concurski
i concur, tampere for me is the better version due to the atmosphere, keep up the nice reactions 😃
Seeing a thinking man "react" (an insufficient word for what I just witnessed) to this masterpiece was a real treat. Tuomas used the entire spectrum in this one, and the band translated it flawlessly- and you got it. It'll still be amazing you after a hundred views. Thank you!
This song with Floor singing is best as it can be when talking of Nightwish. It couldn't be this great with past two singers (sorry).
And those who says Nightwish isn't as good anymore when there isn't Tarja or Marko... This song proves that as long as there is Tuomas there is Nightwish. And they still perform this song without Marko and it's still amazing!
I could praise Tuomas for ever and ever and I would never find enough words. I'm so happy I found him and Nightwish. Even though it took long time! ❤️
Well Nighwish is evolving. Just as life. Ohh irony.
I concur!
Nightwish is Tuomas!
Without his poesie, his composition, there ist no Nightwish.
I do love all members, I miss Marko!
I appreciate all their solo projects,
but in my opinion, they do not even reach the "heels" of Tuomases music
Lots of colors here Eric. I can see that you see hem, just like me. I was at their second Amsterdam show on nov. 28 and they finished with this monumental song. And that was a epic show ending. Like your comments veru=y much. Honest and to the point. Keep it up my friend.
Hey Eric , even if you enjoyed the Wembley version still watch the Tampere show please do , in my opinion it's the better show outside with fireworks & the reading & ending is pretty awesome 😍, love you're reactions - Thank you 😊.
The Fireworks were so cool, that’s why I suggested that one. Also, you could see them a lot better.
Plus Floor’s family was in the audience as well.
Eric you are the best! Nobody offers better analysis than you. Knew you’d do this masterpiece justice! Just because you’ve done the big ones now, doesn’t mean that there still isn’t a LOT of greatness to discover with Nightwish. Keep exploring! WE WERE HERE!
I feel very much the same way about Uillean pipes. There’s something about them that always cuts straight to my heart and moves me in a way no other instrument (with the possible exception of a French horn) can. To me, it speaks of loneliness and loss, but in a peaceful and cathartic way. Like, yeah I’m sad, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing and I know it’ll be alright in the end. It’s like therapeutic tears, allowing yourself a moment to grieve so you can move on and heal.
Agree - try and get to listen to Northumbrian pipes - equally moving
I concur
@@richardwest6358 Any links, lease?
I feel sorry for people that will not hear this or choose not to listen to this incredible music. What other music can devour all thoughts and emotions and simply give a person a great feeling at the end ? Universally excellent !!
20 minutes seems like 10 or less. It’s a joy, to live in this time of Toumas. Musical awesomeness !
Only the second reaction I've seen that picked up on the evolution of music, which I never doubted would be the case for a second 😁
Some bands I’m happy to listen to. Listening and watching Nightwish is a privilege to experience 6 virtuoso performances that meld into one they are all musical and artistic giants
I was there! And you're right they put me in my own little world but was still connected. Thanks for bringing the nostalgia back to me, I really needed it this week. Once again you put the feelings that Nightwish invoke in me into words. You pick up on everything in one listen that took me weeks of listening to hear. It's 1am in the UK and my neighbours will be pissed coz I just had to sing along and headbang. All the goosebumps and shivers and hair standing on end moments came back. Thank you Eric, you really are a brother. If you're ever in the UK, find me, I owe you a beer!
Tuomas.. Creator of the unconventional hooks. He drags you into every song, whether you want in or not, and then you never want to leave.
Yes, Please do yourself a favor and watch the Tampere performance. Has it's own special moments. Floor performing with her parents in the audience.
The Bach phrase was an organ fugue from the second movement of BMV 565 in D minor. This is the best song for every reason you stated, in every way possible and you once again gave it the utmost respect and amazing insights
I wonder if that was a homage to the French animation series "once upon a time"? It was running in most nordic countries, and it might be this also was picked up by a young Tuomas?
The series is about earth and it's history.
How it was formed development of the species... but most is about history of man. And yes it uses that Bach tune as intro.
@@andreaspedersen3952 It was. Once Upon A Time was very popular in Finland in the 80's.
I think I saw so many reactions to this song, which is my favourite overall song in this universe. And Mr. Wylde, with your reaction, you hit a so many nails (evolution of the universe, evolution of species, evolution of man, evolution of arts, of music, of poetry, of humanity, of politics...).
The best and most multiperspective reaction to this masterpiece, Hats off!
And thank you for choosing the Wembley-Version, its more intimate and more content focused.
YOU'RE THE FIRST ONE TO FIND THE EVOLUTION OF MUSIC ON THE FIRST TRY!!!! IT FINALLY HAPPENED!!!! THIS MAKES ME SO HAPPY!!!
I love to see that this masterpiece of music history blew you away as much as me when I first heard it. All I can say is that this band changed me forever. And it's crazy because I've only been listening to them consciously for 3 months! Discovering Nightwish is like a kind of science, like the doctoral thesis of music.
I believe that the Uilleann Pipes touches you so much because it is so original as an instrument and just speaks to our soul on a deeper level.
Tears in my eyes everytime. What a wonderful group of musicians.
First of all Eric. Great reaction you sure did this masterpiece of a song justice. Even if I have a hard time calling it a ”song”, it’s more then just a song, track or what ever. The techno beat you discovered is from Sandstorm by Darude. I am not sure if you reacted to the opening song of the concert, Shrudder before the beautiful. If not, you got to check that one out. That’s how you open a show!
I concur!
I concur
I concur
I concur!
I concur 👍🏻
Since it does not only open the topic of the 'shudder before' the grandeur of all that surrounds us and all we experience (Greatest Show 😉) as humans, being some parts of the 'forms most beautyful' 😅😉😂
and therefore perfectly fits to the ending with TGSOE in my opinion 🤗,
but also describes literally how I feel about what Nightwish and Floor are doing to me with every song,
evoking emotions of awe and sheer gratitude for all their healing and inspiring music and Tuomas' poetry 🥰
You found the Easter eggs! Yeah that was Bach in the beginning...the evolution of music as well ;)
It is insane how much detail they put in their music and lyrics.
This song is written by Tuomas and marko. Marko created a big part of the lyrics.
I showed this my children and they said they learned more from this song than history at school. (teens)
Awesome reaction. I think we all feel emtional overwelmed by this master piece. I am also an adventurer and want to see and exerience as much as possible in my life.
It is exactly how I feel about life, but to hear it makes it even stronger.
I will see them live in November again in Floor's home country, in Amsterdam! YAY
Thanks Sir!
I genuinely can't comprehend why nightwish aren't one of the biggest acts in the world
A very good understanding Eric, most do not get into it that deep, now. . . . . . . .
Man, he took his time in the sun (us now)
Had a dream to understand
A single grain of sand
In this second iteration, the first two bars of Metallica “Enter the Sandman” are played as a nod to them, one of the first HM bands to work with an orchestra and the sand reference. Metallica is rather a favourite of Tuomas too as they set him off on a musical path. There are several Easter eggs in this too with some phrases from classical and pop music too. Someone said, and I take no credit for this analysis, the little hidden melody bits were some African tribal drumming, a medieval hymn (Dies Irae), Johan Sebastian Bach (Christian Petzold) - Minuet in G major and Toccata & Fugue in D minor, American banjo music, Metallica - Enter Sandman and the bassline from Nightwish - I Wish I Had An Angel. Also Megadeth - Symphony of Destruction.
The chances of us as individuals being here now? 400 trillion to one against.
We have always been here, we're made of the space dust and condensing gasses from the big bang, everything before us is still here in a different state and everybody and everything to come is here, as yet un-assembled, we are a universe as the atoms and molecules that make us look like and we have come from a universe.
If you didn't know Eric, the scientific community knows all about Nightwish and Tuomas' scientifically accurate writing, you may not know of these recent discoveries appropriately named:
Tmesisternus floorjansenae - A beetle
Sciophila holopaineni - A shadow loving Insect
Tanidromites nightwishorum - A Species of Crab
Ophiomitrella Floorae - An hitherto unknown brittle star species that lived in the Cretaceous era named after Floor Jansen - and the Alpenglow Rockshelter - a prehistoric rockshelter discovered in Pennsylvania, USA which is located just a few hundred meters from the Council Rocks archaeoastronomy (Stonehenge-type) site from at least 1825 BC, some 4000 years before present.
You did a truly grand job of this Eric, I applaud you.
Thank you for your reaction. I often cry when I listen to Nightwish. Toumas knows how to bring emotion through music and lyrics. Its so beautiful. He and
Nightwish deserves to be known better in the US. I saw them in a small venue in Atlanta. It was amazing. And that was with Annette.
One of the most precious moments of my life was presenting Tuomas with my 150yr old Origin of Species book by Charles Darwin as a way to say thank you for changing my life. The concluding words of that book that also concluded this most majestic song. What a truly incredible honour! I took the most magical journey to Kitee, Finland with a very special friend and its something that will always be a part of me now. FOREVER
Oh wow. That’s amazing!! What did Tuomas say when he saw the book? I wish I had a special moment like this too. That’s just wow!
@@marita2g He said wow, this is a 150yr old book.. looked at me and was very humble. He mentioned about it being one of the most important books ever. Then said he may put it in Nightwish museum or personal library. It was such a meaningful thing.. I can´t describe it really. I just think inside myself, I´m so grateful for Nightwish and the emotions they have brought to my life.
@@laudatosiadastra1218 Wow! Aww. That’s so sweet. 😄 He should definitely put one in the museum. As it has had such an impact on him. Ooh. You gave him the book? 😯 Wow! I see why you can’t describe it. Same here, I’m so grateful and I will be forever 😄
@@marita2g :) In the front cover my friend that I went there with wrote WE WERE HERE
@@laudatosiadastra1218 wow, that’s even more special. 🥰 Memories for life right there! You too! Thanks for the nice comments. 😄
We’ll done my man. Great breakdown., it’s always good to see the emotion on your face when listening to this wonderful band. My brother went to see them in Chicago a few months ago and was blown away by the skill of the musicianship and Floors vocals. He is one of the few who had never listened to Nightwish at all until he saw them live in concert. After the concert he devoured all he could of the band on UA-cam and then proclaimed that no matter the online quality of the live recordings it pales into insignificance when compared to having the music and vocals break over you in a live venue.
Greetings from Helsinki, Finland. Thx for a very good reaction video. Stay heavy!
Its been a long time coming but boy was it worth the wait!! I feel like I just had a 45 minute conversation about life, death, the universe, evolution, philosophy, music and many more things.....and yet I never said a word!!! Bravo, possibly the best reaction to one of the best songs ever written.
_"Song means what the song means to you."_ Tuomas Holopainen
One of the best reactions that I have seen to this song, and I've seen a few. "It's as if Pink Floyd and Queensrÿche had a baby" and he shall be named Tuomas. Well done. Much love from the Nightwish army in New York 🤗
this video should be shown in schools
Really good reaction. Nightwish makes you think while delivering epic performances. Floor switching styles and then to speaking is special.
That you picked up on so much in this song made my heart happy.
and yes they did the history of music in 30 seconds inc druids and Bach
In my opinion this had been the most empathic and intelligent comment to this experience. You had been able to express and name what so many people feel when listening to GSOE but cannot say. I have subscribed to your channel.
Excellent job picking all that up, especially LUCA and Lucy. Still waiting for someone to comment on "ion channels" though. ;)
Here's the London Philharmonic playing the backing track to this piece: ua-cam.com/video/73pOKXXX6Qs/v-deo.html. Tuomas wrote this as well.
A channel called "Scientist analyzes" did a reaction to TGSOE. He is a biologist and explained the ion channels. 🙂
You should take time, turn volume up and watch Tampere version too. This is more about song and Tampere is More The Show. I'm interested to hear what you think about that.
Though i disagree with a pop scientist like Dawkins who crossed the river into the murky theological waters , we can love the beautiful musical rendition of creation. Absolutely the greatest opus of love and beauty. We are and our blessed.
This video showcases why your reactions can be regarded as the gold standard for reactions! Excellent and most enjoyable how you did this musical masterpiece justice. I hope you consider "Endless Forms Most Beautiful" official Lyric Video, and then doing a series at some point on the Human:||:Nature disk 1 from start to finish, as it shows Thomas's and the bands direction following TGSOE (because, I mean, where does one go after creating something like this...)
Blessings and warm wishes from Namibia
I concur!
Ah, the Tampere version is something that you have to watch.
I concur.
I concur
Me too just because their Familie were there and it's the home turf.
This was the best reaction I have watched for a long time. Greetings from Finland. Most likely this coming weekend, I am able to go and hear Nightwish.
There's a fan video documentary "To Nightwish, With Love" where several fans talk about what NW means to them, dealing with the changes, and whatnot, and part of it is several of the fans get to go to this concert, flying in from all over the world, and meet the band. (some of those fans will look familiar to those who watch the DVDs for Wacken, Wembley, and Please Learn The Set-list in 48 hours)
Tuomas is telling how he just can't get why some people get all flustered and hold him in such high esteem and worship him and the band like a cult , and he can't see why they act like they do, and the fans next to him seem to deflate a bit one girl apologizes, but he assures them that they were not all that bad, but tells them to concentrate on the music and enjoying it, then he mentions he got to meet Dawkins, and he almost fainted so he kinda sees where it is coming from. I'll also add taking a look at the Tampere version for a slightly different rendition. Troy does Whistles instead of E-bow, and Fireworks are involved.
Greatest Show On Earth by, quite possibly, the greatest band on earth! Thanks Eric, awesome as always!
Nightwish Army UK popping in to say WE WERE HERE ... and WE WERE THERE.
I would have said Tampere because I think it is generally a better performance, the outdoor atmosphere and fireworks, and Troy gets more focus.... but they are both great and in this you get Dawkins. Oh, I almost forgot, Tampere has Floor's double helix dress in Finnish national colours......
It's honestly a privilege to be able to hear and connect with this piece of music. It's genuinely my favourite piece of music of all time. The journey it takes me on is unmatched by anything else. This song is a good example of why I always say it's been a pleasure to grow up and change alongside Nightwish. When I was in my teen years I was listening to their more power metal-y sound, because that's how I felt. But by the time this album came out, I was in university and really starting to appreciate the world for what it was. This isn't even a song I listen to very often, because I save it for the good headphones when I have time to appreciate it either inside and uninterrupted or in the peaceful countryside.
Those bagpipes (Uilleann pipes) really are something special. We all feel something slightly different, but regardless it so clearly resonates with all of us. For me, when I hear that section I feel incredibly grounded with the earth. As if all these artificial stresses and distractions we've created suddenly don't exist and I can feel the planet's energy run through my veins. Absolutely gorgeous.
Also, trust you out of all people to catch onto the "Evolution of music"! I think everyone can recognise a lot is going on in that section but it takes some real thought to realise they are taking us through the history of music.
@The Wyldeside with Eric Clark I have watched EVERY reaction video of this masterpiece, and YOU, Sir, are the ONLY one who GOT IT! You have restored a small amount of my faith in the human race...thank you!
You also demonstrated pretty every emotion I experienced, but did not really understand.
I am truly impressed how much you were able to pick up from a song that usually requires several times to listen to appreciate the complexity.
One of the lines, what me most think about my existence was the phrase "no one of your fathers died young"....since the beginning of live...
Now you need to watch the Tempere version, because so much happens, especially at the end that will mean something to you. The song also differs at the beginning and you WILL want to comment on it. This is seriously the most important composition of my life time, and both deserve a reaction due to their impact and meaning. I'm all for the meaning of Richard Dawkins reciting the final paragraph of The Origin of Species, which is a recorded recitation at Tempere, which must be played to the VERY end, but everything else at Tempere is superior in my opinion. Floor is at a completely different emotional level because it was the first time her parents were in the audience to see her perform with Nightwish, and the staging was without peer. At the end, I always think back to Lord of the Rings final scene at Gondor ... "you should bow to no one!" That's how I feel about Nightwish. As always, you are unparalleled in your analysis and I have been eagerly awaiting this particular review. Thanks for all you do, Eric!
I concur 1000%
I concur !!!!!!
I concur.
I concur!
The pipes at this point are bittersweet having loved and lost but also wraps you in a warm, caress of emotion and sound.
No one member of the band is greater than the other when they are playing. They all pull back to let the next shine through when it's required musically. Great reaction, new subscriber. It will take another listen or two and Tempere is it's own spectacle that should be taken in also. Also, your final comments at the end about taking in the world. If you haven't done it yet, it's time to listen to "Noise" off the latest album "Human Nature."
I concur.
Album Human:Nature demands total absorbance as whole. Not just piece by piece. Sure it works. But for intelligent and patient listeners really rewards your attention.
"It's like Queensrýche and Pink Floyd had a baby" 🤣
Fantastic comment, and I can't really se anything wrong in the statement either.
Great reaction!
The final lines recited by Dawkins are Charles Darwin's closing words in "The Origin of Species". I wonder what he'd have said if he'd been told they'd someday be recited to audiences of tens of thousands.
I agree with your assessment 100%. I always get that same feeling of duality between nature and science; humans and technology I do love how their visual effects also corresponds with the music and lyrics. I tear up every single time I watch this music video.
Fantastic dissection of this work. I've been waiting for you to get to this one, knowing that it would take you to a wonderful place. When you get a chance, do check out the Tampere version, even if just for your own enjoyment; there are notable differences, and I find it to be more a visual feast.🤘✌
yeah, I was at the Tampere show, and have watched the live bluray tens of times, and i do have to say regarding this track I do prefer the Tampere version. ..but damn that Wembley show was premium, as they got to witness Poet and the Pendulum.
I'm impressed you were able to hear the music evolution out of the interlude. Actually it's not easy to hear, because the mix of the live versions is more focused on the live instruments. There is also a Banjo playing in the mix, you just can't really hear it here. I'd recommend to listen to the studio version as well. There you hear the subtle differences much better.
The banjo comes through really clear in the Diechbrand concert, infact that concert has one of the best sound mixes I have heard from Nightwish.
@@Alicatt1 Oooh! Can't wait!
I hope they release that version too.
@@stpfs9281 It is on O2 can do and unlisted ( ua-cam.com/video/QvQy3Id8z-s/v-deo.html )
My best mate of nearly 30 years was at that concert, they started with "Shudder before the Beautiful" went to "Ghost Love Score" and "Poet and the Pendulum" and finished with "the Greatest Show on Earth" that's why Toumas had his head in his hands at the end of this performance the "dead boy" was with his best friend. I hope you can see why Poet in particular was so important when you hear this, can you imagine a world where Toumas took himself out? The sheer joy and wonder we would have missed out on.
As an Evolutionary Biologist, this song really strikes a chord! Saw them in Lowell, MA in 2022. I was singing "We Were Here" at the top of my lungs, not caring who else was around. The fact that the show was not sold out should cause all New Englanders to hang their heads in shame!
I really like your reaction style, and I love how passionate you are about music. This is one of the few reaction videos I've seen where the whole "Bach/Metallica/EDM" thing was picked up, and it was great watching your brain melt when you figured it out -- because every Nightwish fan went through the same thing. Nightwish truly are utter masters of their craft, and can completely change the way you look at modern music. I was introduced to their music back in 1998 with the release of their 2nd album, and it was a keystone moment that's burned in my memory -- to this day I remember exactly who introduced me to it, what song it was, what we were doing at the time, everything -- and they've only gotten better since.
I'm not crying - you're crying..😭😉 I love such emotional reactions!!! Tuomas is a true genius and the quote "We were here" touches me every time! Greetings from London 🤘😎
Thank you Eric.
Yes, the evolution of music. The piano intro actually evolves in a classic minimalist way, just a small change with each repetition, reflecting the whole theme, of evolution.
Then the evolution of music with plainchant, a very short snatch of the Dies Irae (per Verdi's Requiem), Petzold's Minuet as you correctly identified; Bach's Toccata and Fugue and Emppu playing Metallica, Enter Sandman. And finally the pinnacle of musical evolution: Nightwish.
Appreciate the fact that we are here at the same time this wonderful band is. They make me laugh, feel sad, love and cry. The connection between the fans and the band is like nothing else on this earth.
Great reaction, Eric! Thank you. I love the Wembley version. Troy's E-bow in the opening is mimicking a beautiful cello part that's on the album. I'd also recommend seeing the Tampere show when you can. At that show, the cello part remains. The Tampere show is stunningly beautiful, especially the Greatest Show on Earth performance. There's a moment in the piece when Floor whispers 'Us, Sleeping'. It takes my breath away every time. You'll see what I mean when you watch it.
We are here and we were here. Thank you much love.
This is my absolute favorite song from Nightwish.
I liked it the first time I heard it. I was sitting in the car then and it came from the radio!!!
On the album, it is 24 minutes long, but Tuomas has said in his interviews that the original plan was a song of about 30 minutes! Sometimes I wonder where he cut those 6 minutes from...
You found the evolution of that music well, not many people hear it. Or at most they hear that Metallica part.
Scientific text comes easily from Tuomas. As a teenager, his wish was to become a marine biologist. He even started university studies, but they only lasted five months. The musician's life won.
BTW. As a teenager, Floor also hoped to become a biologist. In her case, too, the music won.
It's probably a victory for our ears and soul that those two ended up as music professionals. Although of course I believe they could also have become excellent biologists... 😄☺
If you're interested, here's a minute-long interview with Professor Richard Dawkins right after the concert.
Richard Dawkins About Join NIGHTWISH on Stage
ua-cam.com/video/rDLgBipPQtM/v-deo.html
During that song, reference (homage) was made to 3 songs. When Floor was narrating her part the reference of the music was (Symphony of Destruction). During another 2 parts of the song, reference in the music was made to Bach and to Metallica. Great reaction from a former radio DJ.
I've always taken Tuomas' dissonant notes right before the Bach part as being a nod to entropy. And after the "Enter Lucy, Luca, and Ionia", of course Empuu got an "enter" in his inimitable voice.
it feels like "I've lost the love of my life but I'm glad to have loved them".. that really hit me... I get it... as heavy and light as it feels at the same time... I understand...going through an extremely difficult time in my life right now.. doesn't make it any easier but I do understand
I hope you also checked out Tampere afterwards. This was is better audio but Tampere is better for the eyes.
Oh wow finally! First of all: Thanks for doing this reaction. Made my night! I was one of the Lucky ones at the Tampere show when this was performed with lots of pros. I hope you do that reaction to on this song. You will love that too! ❤️
Yes, there is a lot. And you have noticed more in your first listen than any other reactor I have seen. You're the only one I've seen figure out the evolution of music. Yes, that was J.S.Bach and EDM.
That instrument that Troy is playing is the Uilleann (ill-en or ill-yen) pipes, the Irish version of bagpipes that uses a bellows squeezed by the elbow to inflate the bag. Uilleann is the Gaelic word for elbow.
Can't go wrong with either version, both are awesome. But, please do check out the Tampere version on your own. The main differences, outside with fireworks, and Troy's part starts with Irish Low Whistle instead of EBOW on guitar.
For more of the Uilleann Pipes- I Want My Tears Back from the Buenos Aires 2018 Show
You realt have to check out the version from Tamprer in Finland 🏴💙🇳🇴
Sorry about the delay, but the riff between Bach and Metallica was from Requiem by Amadeus Mozart
Passing by to say that I watch this reaction at least once a week to remind me how much joy we can have in life!
Thanks for being such a beautiful person.
The uilleann pipes also hit me right in the feels. I think, we connect to them so much because they sound similar to a human voice, but at the same time otherworldly. And that instrument has long, slow notes which in general convey a feeling of melancholy or sadness.
I knew you would like this. I mentioned in a comment on another of your videos, this song is the one song that makes me feel human, or more accurately a part of humanity rather than just a loner doing my own thing. It makes me feel connected and hammers home that there is so much that is worthwhile in this world.
The reason i suggested a premiere is that during the We Were Here section the chat would have blown up with hundreds of people typing that at once, four times. The best example was in the Nightwish Virtual Show, they had a live chat and the fans crashed it with hundreds of thousands of 'We Were Here'
Nonetheless you clearly felt a connection with this song. If you do do a second video on this song, I'll watch it, and hey, it'd give you a chance to hear the Tampere arrangement and check out the, I shit you not, timed fireworks.
Such a magnificent final song and to think that they had already performed The Poet and the Pendulum earlier. What an experience that show must have been. I love the use of the E-bow first and then the Uilleann pipes. Troy is such a talent. In the section which depicts the history of music Gregorian chants etc, missed the banjo before Enter Sandman.
Thank you Eric. You just put to words, after only one listen, many of the reasons why I love this band and song so much. I did indeed forget that everyone was around me when I finally saw them play live this year. I hope you get the chance to see them live sometime as well. It's a uniquely powerful experience.
What I find from their music is it is layered in such a way that the listener experiences relentless waves of magic produced by six of the most talented individuals in rock today and as far back as rock music has been existence. You don’t have time to ingest one aspect before you are hit with further waves. It is lazy to pass any Nightwish production as merely music. They are an emotional and stimulating journey providing the receiver a journey of a lifetime swinging through the full parameters from sadness an desperate loss to amazement and happiness and all points in between. Five magicians and and an enchantress who create spells whose effects last beyond the length of their performance- that’s my view anyway