Music For A Warm Winter

Ancient Winter by Leah, published with Napalm Records. I’m not sure why a heavy metal label published a Christian Christmas album, but I’m glad they did! The songs work wonderfully to transport me right to the image on the cover. Every time I listen I fell like I’m walking into a warm village after a cold and distant journey, full of comfort, solitude, and a peaceful winter snowfall.

No, not that kind of Scrooge. At least that’s what I say every time I tell someone the name of the album. Written by the keyboardist and song writer of one of the biggest symphonic metal bands in all of Finland, this was Tuomas Holopainens love letter to Scrooge McDuck. Along with vocals by his wife Johanna Kurkela and help from Troy Donockley, the songs take me on a grand adventure through the northern winters of Scotland and the other Scandinavian countries so far from home. Great escapism for someone who’s never left the United States (though who’s always wanted to).

Tarja is an amazing singer, of that there’s no question. Despite that, I haven’t loved most of the solo albums she’s put out since she left Nightwish. the lyrics and themes just don’t capture my attention the way Nightwish always has. I think this is why, one of her few albums that consists almost entirely of covers is one of my favorites. Many of the songs on here I already love, and with her powerful voice they become magical.