Marko Hietala

Roses From The Deep

2025 – Nuclear Blast Records

We love Hietala and we dare to declare that, unapologetically! We had the honor of hosting him for a unique interview —well, Costas had the honor; I’m still mad that I couldn’t be there.

To avoid going all the way back to Mr. Marco’s Nightwish era, let’s focus on his previous album, “Pyre Of The Black Heart”. The song “Stones” haunted me. I think it played non-stop for a month—and I’m not exaggerating. Something about the music, the feeling, and Hietala’s phenomenal voice, resonated deeply with me.

And guess what, doctor? I experienced the same symptoms with “Frankenstein’s Wife”. Such beautiful music! What an incredible vibe! And, of course, that passionate voice, whichis guiding you through cinematic yet romantic imagery.

How many listening sessions until I recover, you say? A thousand? Oh, doctor, that’s far too few—add a couple more (thousands), please.

He’ll visit us on April 8th at the Gagarin LiVE venue, along with Tarja. Hopefully, I’ll get my “dose” live and find some peace, though rumors suggest it might leave me even more hooked. We’ll see what happens.

The new album, “Roses From The Deep”, carries a sweeter, uplifting intensity. It’s definitely metal, undoubtedly prog, and absolutely stunning—more mature than ever.

Take “Left on Mars” as an example, where Hietala and Tarja Turunen weave a gorgeous web that magically unfolds before you.

Heavy yet playful “Proud Whore” wraps around you in a unique way. Uh-oh, we’ve got a problem here, folks—how does one pick a favorite when faced with such fantastic compositions?

And then there’s “Two Soldiers”—this one will shock you. Is that J-P Leppäluoto’s voice accompanying? You’re taking me back in time, you guys, I’ve missed the Northern Kings. Those two voices together are pure perfection. It’s like a cozy blanket on a massive couch as you enjoy the beauty of snow falling outside.

Shame on you, mister, for making us think the dragons have to die —”Dragon Must Die”. We love them, flaws and all. Yet the song has an epic flair and cheeky charm, with guitars and keyboards stirring things up wildly, laying the groundwork for a brighter path.

A mood shift comes with “The Devil You Know”. Catchy, sassy, with poser-ish country vibes —how could you not love it? He’s doing this on purpose, folks. I’ve been searching for a weak track, but there isn’t one. Let’s move on.

With a harder tone comes “Rebel Of The North”. When Hietala’s in the zone, he leaves everyone in the dust! Let’s make a note of this for the records.

Funky, metal, with grand operatic breaths, “Impatient Zero” enchants you from the first notes. It’s got an insatiable energy, teetering throughout, and the inventive solo adds even more brilliance to this gem.

The heavy rock “Tammikuu” contributes its own unique brick to this album. Finally, the album closes with the title track, through the gates of a tender ballad. The beauty of its imagery comes alive. The colors reignite the atmosphere and Marco’s warm voice wraps the album with a satin ribbon.

The verdict?

Best album of 2025!

Thank you, Marko Hietala, for creating something so profound and unforgettable. Your talent shine brighter than ever. This album isn’t just music; it’s an experience we’ll treasure forever.

Mary Zarakoviti

Frankenstein’s Wife

Left On Mars

Proud Whore

Two Soldiers

Dragon Must Die

The Devil You Know

Rebel Of The North

Impatient Zero

Tammikuu

Roses From The Deep