"Decades" is an extensive compilation CD by the symphonic metal band Nightwish, released under the renowned metal label Nuclear Blast. This collection offers an impressive journey through the band's musical evolution, gathering key tracks from multiple creative phases in one cohesive release. Powerful orchestral arrangements, bombastic choirs, virtuosic guitar work and atmospheric keyboards merge with expressive vocals to create a cinematic listening experience. From epic, long-form compositions to more compact, direct songs, "Decades" highlights Nightwish's trademark blend of metal, classical influences and soundtrack-like soundscapes, making it an ideal entry point for new listeners and a must-have overview for long-time fans. The carefully curated track selection and high production quality ensure that the dynamics, emotional range and characteristic intensity of Nightwish's sound come across in full on CD.
Nightwish, founded in the mid-1990s in Finland, are among the pioneers and global spearheads of symphonic metal. Over the years, the band has released internationally successful albums, filled arenas and headlined major festivals worldwide. Known for their cinematic concept albums, powerful live shows and the fusion of metal with orchestral and choral arrangements, Nightwish have significantly shaped the genre and inspired countless subsequent bands. Their discography includes several gold and platinum releases in multiple countries, and their world tours have firmly established them as one of Europe's most influential metal acts.
The CD "Decades" not only documents this success story but also shows how versatile the band's songwriting is: atmospheric ballads stand alongside fast, riff-driven tracks, while recurring melodic motifs and dramatic build-ups create a strong narrative arc. The compilation is particularly well suited for listeners who want to explore the breadth of Nightwish's material on a single disc, as well as collectors who appreciate a clearly structured retrospective in physical form. As a CD edition, it offers the classic haptic experience including booklet, artwork and detailed credits that underline the artistic concept behind the music.
Nuclear Blast, the manufacturer and label behind this release, is one of the most important and respected names in heavy music worldwide. Over decades, Nuclear Blast has built a reputation for discovering, supporting and developing leading metal and rock artists across a wide range of subgenres. Their catalog includes numerous internationally successful acts and many genre-defining albums. The label stands for high production standards, elaborate physical editions and a close connection to the global metal community. With releases like Nightwish's "Decades", Nuclear Blast once again underlines its role as a quality seal for sophisticated, powerful and artistically ambitious rock and metal productions.
Disc 1:
1 The Greatest Show On Earth
2 Elan
3 My Walden
4 Storytime
5 I Want My Tears Back
6 Amaranth
7 The Poet And The Pendulum
8 Nemo
9 Wish I Had An Angel
Disc 2:
1 Ghost Love Score
2 Slaying The Dreamer
3 End Of All Hope
4 10Th Man Down
5 The Kinslayer
6 Dead Boy'S Poem
7 Gethsemane
8 Devil & The Deep Dark Ocean
9 Sacrament Of Wilderness
10 Sleeping Sun
11 Elvenpath
12 The Carpenter
13 Nightwish (Demo)