anette was the ORIGINAL singer on this album. It was NOT a demo Anette due to pregnancy had to leave the imaginaeurm world tour. Floor was the "fill in". I attended the Melbourne concert, with Floor as the lead vocals. Anette never came back.
I’ve heard this song live with Annette and with Floor… the song is so wonderful composed and it is has such a powerful lyrics and melodie’s, that once you are in the concert you simply get chills… but when you see the performances in this videos, yes… Floor took it to a whole new level…
This dark epic song has 5 sections. This song is full of pain, emotion, selfhatred and anger reflecting Tuomas' feelings after Tarja leaving the band. And to think that Tuomas felt such pain, it really gives insight into the extreme distress he was in. The introductory section is sung by a child soprano.
There is no other reactor who's expertise I have this much respect as for you Jeff. I have seen this performance perhaps 50 times, but still you have the ability to make my eyes water. Thank you for being you!
@@StrateleStudios just a little correction paisan,this song is not actually about Tarja (being fired by the band) it's about Tuomas's state of mind from the backlash & blame from fans and media, at the time it was relentless.
This song is out of our space... Third part, The Pacific, when Floor hits those high notes, is in my opinion the most beautiful part of any song I've ever heard, and if I would ever get any tattoo, it would be the ending part "you have such oceans within"... This says everything about Tuomas and his soul... He is truly Greatest of All Times.
Absolutely incredible composition and performed for a live setting with perfection. My all time favourite live performance by any band - just wish Floor would stop making my eyes water🇬🇧🤘🤘😢
Oh Jeff - I just realised that you have not yet heard NW tribute to Pink Floyd's " High Hopes" from End Of An Era 2006, which was Tarja's last consert. Marco's godly vocals is epic. This Poet And The Pendelum was composed right after that consert, when Tuomas got so much hate messages from Tarja's fans.
Has he not - in that case I concur. I just recommended him a couple of Tarja songs from that concert but High Hopes is the ultimate Marco song and the highlight of that show. By the way, it was 2005, 21st October
This song was written by Tuomas when Annete was the vocalist. Floor does an amazing job with the emotions in the vocals. This is an amazing performance!🤘🎸
Toumas at 12:57 gets me every time as does Floor, always. Wow indeed Jeff at 6:00. This Wembley performance was my introduction to Nightwish and Floor around 16 months. I was pestered by a good friend in to listening to this not expecting to like symphonic metal but OMG I was blown away and have been ever since. Phenomenal band. Thank you Jeff for an insightful reaction to this masterpiece. Paul 🙏😊👍❤️
I agree, the pain he expresses is there for all to see. He is completely in another space there. It's very raw and emotional, incredible soul baring thing to witness, and in front of so many people.
He’s a pure genius and yet again I shed another 😢 from this reaction. Anyone that’s gone thru anything close to Tuomas’s mental state back then. Has little to know how close to the heart of the felling he had put thru this song alone. I’ve been there and have a very deep connection to this song and will forever be grateful for such a song than any other today. How Floor manages to perform each word each section of this song alone cuts deep into the soul. The song was built with Annette but she wasn’t even close to the emotions impact Floor performed with. And how each member on that stage for this performance to exude such raw emotions is SO PURE. Is also why this band is one of the best today!
Timeless masterpiece Pay attention to lyrics 3 minutes and counting Then check the timing about 7 minutes into track... Tuomas is fricking genius Nightwish ❣ all day every day ❤🔥🤘🎧🤘🔥❤ Thank you for reaction
This song, for me, is one of the big three ("Ghost Love Score" given us by Tarja, "The Poet And The Pendulum" given us by Anette and "The Greatest Show On Earth" given us by Floor), and for Nightwish fans , this song is the most meaningful... The reason for Tuomas’ depression was not the firing of Tarja itself, it was what came after that. The fans idolized Tarja and they could not accept the fact that she got fired. In their heads Tarja was the one that made the band famous and they became really angry and hostile, especially towards Tuomas. They really took it out on him. They called him all kinds of ugly things and a lot of them expressed that they did not care if he would die. These are the things that brought him into depression and these are the things that echo through the lyrics This song has the most emotional impact, at least for me... I was that that "Bastard" who abandoned Nightwish after Tarja left...Never Again !!!! Although I love this song (Especially this version), it is the only song, I can't put to my playlist... because, I break down to tears every single time (Current reaction included...). This masterpiece will remain a reminder to me for my narrow mindlessness. NWSU/FloorFan 🤘😎🤘.
Life has some dark humor in it, as I think the open letter was the band's attempt to gain the narrative and thus survive as a band. Tarja's solo future was already certain because she had so much fans and the letter couldn't have taken that away. However if Marcelo/Tarja were allowed to form the narrative on their own, it might have been the end for the band. Or at least I think that's how they saw it. So obviously it backfired big time. I think the letter was really honest, and that worked against Tuomas. Also the timing was really bad. They should have waited. Now it seemed backstabbing. They say life has it's massive changes when you are 28yo and 42yo. Tuomas was 28yo then, just about to turn 29. He was 42 when he was making Human Nature, when covid was originating. That means that Tuomas' last play with Tarja was when he was 28yo and last time he played with Marko was when he was 42 as he was making the Human Nature with Marko. Also funny that the last time he played with Sami Vänskä was when he was 24 (reverse 42) and also when Marko joined the band. And continuing on the numerology, they say 10 is the number of completion. Tuomas was 2+8 when Tarja left, and 3+7 when Anette left. Let's hope he will be 9+1 when Floor will leave. Though now he is 4+6 so please for the love of God don't let this be the end for Floor and thus the whole band. It's Floor's 42th year too. This was supposed to be funny thing and now I managed to make myself worry :D
Loved your commentary Jeff. What we lost with Jukka's amazing flamboyance, passion, and performance style we have gained with Kai's incredible timing and technical prowess. This is a masterpiece of composition & musical artistry! IMHO
Hi Jeff, as promised, accumulated notes: Tuomas is a very special person and this is, for me, the pinnacle of his work. Nothing surpasses it. For him it is one of the deepest songs. Quotes from the band on the making of the album and the song... TUOMAS: We will never play "Bye Bye Beautiful" or "Master Passion Greed" live again, [sic] because the lyrics are just too unambiguous and personal. There was at least as much gloom behind "The Poet and the Pendulum", too, but it leaves a bit more room for interpretation. It's easily one of our best songs but especially, the "Mother and Father'" part in the end always stirs up such a storm of emotions that it's impossible for me to do it every night. Playing "The Poet and the Pendulum' is a real rollercoaster ride - it makes me feel anxious, blush, laugh, and, in the end, just happy that that part of my life is behind me. My notes: My number 1 Nightwish song and for good reasons. (No 2, Song of Myself, No 3 7 Days to the Wolves.) This is a deeply emotional and meaningful song with which I empathise and it helped me to see that there was a way forward when depression struck. I am not alone in being "saved" by Nightwish, a fact that Tuomas has referred to and said he could not terminate the band because he knows they have meant so much to some fans who feel their lives have been saved by Nightwish. He feels that he has a responsibility to the fans - not your standard rock musician then. Floor is worth watching closely, her facial, hand and whole-body motions reflect the emotions she is portraying. Hands in Mother and Father for example. Tearing her hair in the Dark Passion Play section. Note that when Tuomas talks about "Poet" he is always referencing himself. It happens throughout his ouvre. You will see other cross-references too. Tuomas does that deliberately to give the fans a sort of anchor. Meadows of Heaven is another example - a song in itself and often referenced. For what it's worth, here are are my thoughts and interpretations... End to beginning - death of one era of the band, beginning of a new era. Regarding the end of the first Era, I see no point in the blame game. The band split, that is all we need to know. Whatever the causes there was bound to be emotion on both sides so I leave it at that. But this masterpiece is what came out of Tuomas' emotions. The beginning is a boy soprano, Guy Elliott who also does the spoken parts. The whispering at the beginning is the central spoken section, but played in reverse. Then we get the whole section "Home". I see the "shoulder cries more" as having no shoulder to cry on because the other members of the band - his friends - were equally upset. The "whore for the cold world" I see as the selling of his whole life to the music industry (the metaphorical pimps, hence the "whore" references) which is not interested in the person, only what they can get from the band. The two faces bit is self explanatory; almost everyone will have been in situations where they have to hide their feelings and present a false front to the world. The reference to betrayal is again obvious and there are lots of metaphors in the surrounding words. The altar I think, is the tie to the band - these upheavals in 2004/5 were not the first time Tuomas had felt like ending the band. By the way, note the 3 minutes and counting: exactly 3 minutes later you get the guillotine motion. By the way, Marco made the demo version of this, with all the lyrics sung by himself and with harsher lyrics at this point too. Next we get to the Mother and Father section with Floor, Marco and Emppu all sitting, while Floor sings lyrics reflecting the words from his mother when he went back home for a break in the middle of all this turmoil. These are the words of love and then of advice, that he was given. Floor here is using her finger movements to accentuate emotion. This whole section and the way Floor sings it, is packed with those damned Onion Ninjas. Marco's harmonies are wonderful. We end with the final ethereal notes from Floor and here is another tingle-factor moment. Then a gentle piano ending, the calm after the emotional storm. Here, as in Sparkle my Scenery, the choir on the original album is replaced by Floor who wanted to sing them herself (and proved completely capable of it) which Anette could not have done - she could probably get the notes but the emotion is there in the choral original and is amplified when Floor sings it. The low brass used in many places is really effective. On the performance itself: When Emppu goes over to Tuomas and later both Marco and Emppu go over, it is a sign of moral support. They both know how difficult this is for him - eventually he had the vocals turned off in his in-ear, so he didn't have to listen to them because Floor put such emotion into them. At the end, she does not say "Thank you" immediately, as she does normally. Instead she looks over for a few seconds to check on him from her position. BTW, I have never bought the theory that Tuomas was "in love" with Tarja. Those who say he asked her to join the band because he knew her from school - she was suggested by Emppu who had known her as an acquaintance at school.
Nightwish Army South Germany Division There is no better and more apt way of expressing it. This is by far the best commentary on this masterpiece I've seen so far. Very well done. Best regards the lady
There are two words that I refrain from using because they are sometimes thrown out there too casually. But in this case I think masterpiece and genius are appropriate words to use. Tuomas, as you mentioned, is a genius in composition and orchestration. And to create a masterpiece like this is a demonstration of that genius. I always like and highly respect your reactions and analysis.
Totally agree with your reaction. The band is so tight. When the band members are sitting it reminds me of after his musical funeral where friends and parents are reminiscing. Floors siren call at the end is truly beautiful.
I first heard this song with Annette singing it and didn't think too much of it. I saw them live at Janus Landing in St. Petersburg, FL and the emotion that Floor puts into the song had me in tears and wondering if I had even heard the song before. Great song, but Floor adds a level of emotion that just brings it to life. If I'm not mistaken, Tuomas has said that if Floor ever leaves the band, they will never perform the song again.
Kai's drumming is what makes this performance superior over the recorded one (along with Floor of course). The clinical, technical drums adds the feeling of the inevitability of the swinging pendulum.
Tuomas is a special person, and he is my musical hero, to me he will always be at the top of the top, among those maybe 5 artist ever who i admire most in history of music.
@@StrateleStudios Same here, unfortunately I have duties elsewhere during this premiere. I'm pretty sure that Mr. Stratele will have wiped away a tear at some point during this song if he got its full meaning.
@@StrateleStudios Basically, Tarja was fired. The gave her a letter after the End of an Era concert, and told her to open it tomorrow. They posted it online too. It is still on the band's website. Tarja had wanted to do a 6th album with limited touring and then go solo. The guys decided to move on then and there. The split needed to happen, but the way they went about it was far less than ideal. The fans took it out on Tuomas, even though all the guys signed. Yes, it's very personal for Tuomas. You can see Emppu go over to him and ask how he is doing. At the end , Emppu and Marko go to him in a show of support, as they were both involved. Floor even looks over for a moment before saying Thank You. He would often have the sound guys turn off the vocals in his in ears. The last section are some of the words Tuomas' mother said to him when he went home. This was their longest song when released. Having been eclipsed only by The Greatest Show On Earth, which is the last song at this Wembley show(21 minutes)
The most epic song! Especially the cello in part 3, it immediately brings tears to my eyes! This is a true masterpiece, there are so many little details in this song. Everything has a meaning. The most obvious, but still overlooked by most who don't know, is that the "death scene" when the pendulum strikes is EXACTLY 3 minutes after the moment he says, "Now I only have 3 minutes left ..."
And the tightness of bass and drums is even more incredible when you consider Marko often sings in different rhythm while playing the bass. Doing two complicated and different things at the same time and nailing both.
🤩👌💥💯🎼 "The end......... The beginning" And Helluwa Lot in between!!! Marko's 'thrash metal' Slayer - like part with that bass line and harsh vocals comes like a lighting and the demo version of this freakin awesome track is worth to listen of Utuub universe... All sung by Mr. Metal here in Finland, fairly said... 😉 Cool Cool reaction män and Can't wait to see your reaction onto the next epic piece of their tasty live repertoire : "The Greatest Show On Earth" 🤘😎 🇫🇮 💙
This song and performance, I call it my cure. I didn´t know the backstory when I first heard it. I only felt that this song spoke to me, literally changing the direction of my life. It helped me heal and escape the darkness. So much love to Tuomas and Nightwish. Kiitos
Been waiting so long for you to react to this one. My favourite metal song of all time (specifically this performance). Note the lyrics "i only have three minites and counting".... exactly three minutes later in the song Tuomas brings down the blade across his throat on stage. Marco's distorted vocals are stellar, and Floor.... well, Floor is Floor.... everything she does is perfection.
The Poet and the Pendulum was written after firing Tarja the original singer. She was the face of Nightwish at the time, and Tuomas (Keyboards) wrote this and considered her a muse to many of the songs he had written at that point. They had also grown up in the same city and knew each other since early childhood. All the band members decided together to fire her for acting too much of a diva And her husband & Manager was stepping way outta bounds concerning the band business He always wanted more money , only big paying show but the band did it for the love of music and there fans . According to all the band members, Tarja was missing lots of rehearsals and would not even travel with the band anymore. Tuomas was painted as the devil by many fans, and went through a deep depression. He even considered ending the band . He wrote The Poet and the Pendulum at that time, and actually kills himself in the song. He said he killed himself in the song at the 10:00 time stamp , as to kill the pain he was going through . To this day every time he plays it, it takes him back to those feelings, and shows on his face. In the last part, Mother and Father, words are said to him that his real mother said to him at that time of his deep depression. One part that touches me at the end when the guitarist Emppu and bassist Marko, the only other two involved with firing Tarja (that were still active with the band)were standing with Tuomas at the end in solidarity and love., NOTE : the 1st two words are (The End) and the last two words are (The Beginning) representing the end of the 1st era of Nightwish and the beginning of the next era
Thx for your reaction...its always nice when someone lower jaw drops from confusion and admiration all the time😁🤭🤭 . This song brings me to tears every time. Masterpiece by Tuomas, one of its kind. I love every 5 different parts of this song ❤.
❤❤❤I loved your reaction and the feelings you shared about a song that is deeply appreciated by Nightwish fans. I found them on RUclips and have become a huge fan my biggest pleasure is watching new people react the same as I did. In a sense the emotion drips off of every note they hit vocally or musically. Well done Sir! ✌❤T.NoBoDY (New Subscriber)
Thank you for a thoughtful, knowledgeable and well observed reaction. Your observation about Thuomas’ mastery of the orchestral score was spot on. You were also right about how Thuomas put his heart and soul into this song. A stunning masterpiece.
Thanks for digging in on this one, Jeff. It's a truly masterful composition. Three things always stand out to me: (1) This song was written way before Floor joined the band, but the empathy she builds into her performance makes the first-person lyrical phrasing come to life. (2) Kai's drumming is perfect throughout, starting with the way it 'waves in' as the second section starts, ending with his frantic double-kicks. (3) As I've mentioned before, the setlist mastery always gets me, starting with the positivity of 'Alpenglow', then the despair of 'Poet' and finally the recovery offered to the fans by the next song, 'Nemo'. Wembley was taken on an amazing rollercoaster ride, as have we all.
Thank you so very much for your reaction! Did i see at +/_ 7 min.58 sec. Tuomas having tears in his eyes? And did you hear the silence of the fans? Bye Jeff
An epic masterpiece from the kings and queen of epic. This performance was perfect. I can’t listen to those slower parts, the music, Floor’s voice, the ocean on the big screen, without chills and a tear. Nice reaction! Thanks for that!
This song is after Jukka left and Kai joined Nightwish as another awesome drummer in his own right! I especially like Empuu’s lead guitar work! Btw Jeff, you were right on about Heavy Metal music, I never thought I could like something so much as I do the music of Nightwish, I can and I do listen to them consistently without every tiring! ♥️
welcome to the experience and music of Nightwish all these extremely gifted musicians and the fact that they made/ infused Finnish heavy metal music with the colors, sounds and arrangements and accents of the symphony
Thank you for this reaction. There are more songs by Nightwish that through dynamics and beauty can move me. As science person I love The Greatest Show on Earth and other songs of the last two albums (such as Shoemaker), but this The Poet and the Pendulum live strikes some nerves.
Theses noise Floor makes in the end - every time I hear that it cuts into my heart! So beautiful and sad, like a dying siren never to be heard on earth again...😢
that straight ahead forward driving force of a wall of sounds and colors and layers. One more thing the music that this band composes and arranges is very intellectually stimulating and not just the music they write but the sounds they incorporate/bring the versatility of each member of the band
Just discovered your channel few days ago and have already watched most of your videos and all your Nightwish reactions. I love how you feel the music and how you get touched and moved the same way I am. Also, I appreciate the fact that you emphasize on lots of aspects which catch my attention like the double kick, the bass, chromatic descending, offbeats... Regards from Spain.
The brilliance, nuance and mastery of Tuomas’ songwriting and lyrics never ceases to amaze me. If you run a timer from where he says “I have 3 minutes and counting “ it is at 3 minutes when he simulates with his hand the pendulum cutting his throat. Amazing!🤘🤘
It is indeed also about Tarja, childhood friend of Tuomas and Emppu) leaving the band, but more about the devastating backlash from Media, Finnish politicians, even prime minister (yes) , fans and even "friends". Allthough it was a descission made by all, Tuomas carried the blame and it became way too much. It's very relatable to me and I can not listen to this beautiful music piece too often. It goes straight threw the heart. Thank you sir for your reaction
Great reaction, matey. This composition deserves much respect. So emotional. One of the best pieces of rock music I've ever heard and live, with Floor, it's phenomenal in its impact. 🤘😎🤘
Despite four albums worth of material after it, counting the album it opens, Poet might be the pinnacle of NW's "symphonic metal" work, their best fitting combination of band, vocals, and the orchestral, IMO. And It's this particular performance: the studio version was impressive, but here Marco's changed-up delivery, Floor's superior contrasts and theatricality, and Kai rapid playing style ramped up the drama and impact, turning it next-level great.
Great Reaction 👍.....what can you say about this song that hasnt been said thousands of times ....they say theyll never perform it again , i hope they ( tuomas ) changes his mind , i have to see it live .
During this song Tuomas use to have the monitor engineer turn off all vocals in his monitors (speakers and in ears) . And Notice how Empuu and Marko go up to stand beside Tuomas at the end of the song.
i really hope tuomas music find a way movie and tv series world. thanx to great reaction and have wonderful day. still nightwish best song is meadows of heaven and that song usa gospel singer what make that song the last touch.
When Tarja was kicked out of the band, it was a real nightmare. She was such a beloved lead singer and integral part of the band's sound that a lot of fans were understandably angry about the decision. Not just fans either, I'm sure, but also friends etc. It's not a great place to have to put yourself into, and all of this is reflected upon in the lyrics
here you are again, sneaking into the box of chocolates........and you found one of those special pieces we look for......just oh ssssoooo ggooooddd...such a special band
This song is a moment in time, we will never see anything like it again.😊
So true ❤️
I concur. I truly hope the people who where there know what they heard/experienced
they won't play this song evermore...
The perfect comment ❤
@@ciskavandevijver2355why not? Floor can sing the full song on her own!
Floor doesn't only sing the lyrics she feels them.
And that's why she makes grown man cry.
Over and over again.
I double concur.
she's an amazing singer but yes, where she excels is storytelling.
Tuomas’ masterpiece sung by the best female voice ❣️
Always chills and tears
A song about depression that is compositionally just as unpredictable as the emotional fluctuations in depressions.
Tuomas feels things so deeply, and he stands there naked emotionally on stage. Floor's voice just so perfect to me.
The demo with Marco and the version with Anette, showed us allready that it was a masterpiece, however it took Floor to let it shine as one.
anette was the ORIGINAL singer on this album. It was NOT a demo Anette due to pregnancy had to leave the imaginaeurm world tour. Floor was the "fill in". I attended the Melbourne concert, with Floor as the lead vocals. Anette never came back.
I’ve heard this song live with Annette and with Floor… the song is so wonderful composed and it is has such a powerful lyrics and melodie’s, that once you are in the concert you simply get chills… but when you see the performances in this videos, yes… Floor took it to a whole new level…
This dark epic song has 5 sections.
This song is full of pain, emotion, selfhatred and anger reflecting Tuomas' feelings after Tarja leaving the band.
And to think that Tuomas felt such pain, it really gives insight into the extreme distress he was in.
The introductory section is sung by a child soprano.
Choir boy Guy Elliott during the intro.
self hatred? sounds lika a far left actavist lol
@@johnsullivan659 What an earth are you talking about?!
@@riittasihvonen2011 self haters the people that hate themselves because they are white
Tuomas singing without a mike "try to save them all, bleed no more".... Thanks, Tuomas - your music did save me.
There is no other reactor who's expertise I have this much respect as for you Jeff. I have seen this performance perhaps 50 times, but still you have the ability to make my eyes water. Thank you for being you!
Thank you so much dear friend! ❤️
@@StrateleStudios From now on I'm going to csll you mr. MUSICOLOGIST. Most of the others are plain reactors.
I totally agree!!!!!!
I concur.
@@StrateleStudios just a little correction paisan,this song is not actually about Tarja (being fired by the band) it's about Tuomas's state of mind from the backlash & blame from fans and media, at the time it was relentless.
This song is out of our space... Third part, The Pacific, when Floor hits those high notes, is in my opinion the most beautiful part of any song I've ever heard, and if I would ever get any tattoo, it would be the ending part "you have such oceans within"... This says everything about Tuomas and his soul... He is truly Greatest of All Times.
That's what I thought ... until I heard her sing "Shoemaker". The _Laudato Sí_ is stunning.
Absolutely incredible composition and performed for a live setting with perfection.
My all time favourite live performance by any band - just wish Floor would stop making my eyes water🇬🇧🤘🤘😢
@dazjackson1972
My all time favourite also and my introduction to Nightwish and Floor 16 months ago. Phenomenal. 🙏😊👍❤️
@@PaulOutdoors That was some introduction!!🇬🇧🤘🤘
@@dazjackson1972 It sure was Daz and now I'm hooked 🙏😊👍
Floor tells a story with her voice she is a master in that she is the best what Nightwish has come to she is the best of 3 frontwomen
@@PaulOutdoors Wow, you really jumped in to the deep end of the pool. :)
One of the best songs ever
Yes, my No 1 in fact
I love these master musicians 😊. I have never heard such singing talent that Floor provided. She is absolutely incredible 😮❤❤❤.
Oh Jeff - I just realised that you have not yet heard NW tribute to Pink Floyd's " High Hopes" from End Of An Era 2006, which was Tarja's last consert. Marco's godly vocals is epic. This Poet And The Pendelum was composed right after that consert, when Tuomas got so much hate messages from Tarja's fans.
High Hopes is incredible
Has he not - in that case I concur. I just recommended him a couple of Tarja songs from that concert but High Hopes is the ultimate Marco song and the highlight of that show.
By the way, it was 2005, 21st October
@@NickBR57 Misprint!
@@riittasihvonen2011 😁
@@NickBR57 What do you mean by 2011? Dark Passion Play album was released 2007.
Not just a song but a nightwish masterpiece Thankyou for sharing your reaction.
Glad you enjoyed it! 🫶
This song was written by Tuomas when Annete was the vocalist. Floor does an amazing job with the emotions in the vocals. This is an amazing performance!🤘🎸
It's so good to see how people around the world understand the awe of Nightwish. Looking forward for more.
Toumas at 12:57 gets me every time as does Floor, always. Wow indeed Jeff at 6:00. This Wembley performance was my introduction to Nightwish and Floor around 16 months. I was pestered by a good friend in to listening to this not expecting to like symphonic metal but OMG I was blown away and have been ever since. Phenomenal band. Thank you Jeff for an insightful reaction to this masterpiece. Paul 🙏😊👍❤️
I agree, the pain he expresses is there for all to see. He is completely in another space there. It's very raw and emotional, incredible soul baring thing to witness, and in front of so many people.
Absolutely! That is always when the tears flow. 😭
He’s a pure genius and yet again I shed another 😢 from this reaction. Anyone that’s gone thru anything close to Tuomas’s mental state back then. Has little to know how close to the heart of the felling he had put thru this song alone. I’ve been there and have a very deep connection to this song and will forever be grateful for such a song than any other today. How Floor manages to perform each word each section of this song alone cuts deep into the soul. The song was built with Annette but she wasn’t even close to the emotions impact Floor performed with. And how each member on that stage for this performance to exude such raw emotions is SO PURE. Is also why this band is one of the best today!
Timeless masterpiece
Pay attention to lyrics 3 minutes and counting
Then check the timing about 7 minutes into track...
Tuomas is fricking genius
Nightwish ❣ all day every day
❤🔥🤘🎧🤘🔥❤
Thank you for reaction
This song, for me, is one of the big three ("Ghost Love Score" given us by Tarja, "The Poet And The Pendulum" given us by Anette and "The Greatest Show On Earth" given us by Floor), and for Nightwish fans , this song is the most meaningful...
The reason for Tuomas’ depression was not the firing of Tarja itself, it was what came after that. The fans idolized Tarja and they could not accept the fact that she got fired. In their heads Tarja was the one that made the band famous and they became really angry and hostile, especially towards Tuomas. They really took it out on him. They called him all kinds of ugly things and a lot of them expressed that they did not care if he would die. These are the things that brought him into depression and these are the things that echo through the lyrics
This song has the most emotional impact, at least for me... I was that that "Bastard" who abandoned Nightwish after Tarja left...Never Again !!!!
Although I love this song (Especially this version), it is the only song, I can't put to my playlist... because, I break down to tears every single time (Current reaction included...).
This masterpiece will remain a reminder to me for my narrow mindlessness.
NWSU/FloorFan 🤘😎🤘.
Life has some dark humor in it, as I think the open letter was the band's attempt to gain the narrative and thus survive as a band. Tarja's solo future was already certain because she had so much fans and the letter couldn't have taken that away. However if Marcelo/Tarja were allowed to form the narrative on their own, it might have been the end for the band. Or at least I think that's how they saw it.
So obviously it backfired big time. I think the letter was really honest, and that worked against Tuomas. Also the timing was really bad. They should have waited. Now it seemed backstabbing.
They say life has it's massive changes when you are 28yo and 42yo. Tuomas was 28yo then, just about to turn 29. He was 42 when he was making Human Nature, when covid was originating. That means that Tuomas' last play with Tarja was when he was 28yo and last time he played with Marko was when he was 42 as he was making the Human Nature with Marko.
Also funny that the last time he played with Sami Vänskä was when he was 24 (reverse 42) and also when Marko joined the band.
And continuing on the numerology, they say 10 is the number of completion. Tuomas was 2+8 when Tarja left, and 3+7 when Anette left. Let's hope he will be 9+1 when Floor will leave. Though now he is 4+6 so please for the love of God don't let this be the end for Floor and thus the whole band. It's Floor's 42th year too.
This was supposed to be funny thing and now I managed to make myself worry :D
A masterpiece. By far their best piece for me and Floor's voice is just perfect for it.
Loved your commentary Jeff. What we lost with Jukka's amazing flamboyance, passion, and performance style we have gained with Kai's incredible timing and technical prowess.
This is a masterpiece of composition & musical artistry! IMHO
Totally agree!
Okay, I'm being transported to a fantasy realm. Amazing!
Thanks for your reaction and there is something special with Nightwish and floor Jansen
Hi Jeff, as promised, accumulated notes:
Tuomas is a very special person and this is, for me, the pinnacle of his work.
Nothing surpasses it.
For him it is one of the deepest songs.
Quotes from the band on the making of the album and the song...
TUOMAS: We will never play "Bye Bye Beautiful" or "Master Passion Greed" live again, [sic] because the lyrics are just too unambiguous and personal. There was at least as much gloom behind "The Poet and the Pendulum", too, but it leaves a bit more room for interpretation. It's easily one of our best songs but especially, the "Mother and Father'" part in the end always stirs up such a storm of emotions that it's impossible for me to do it every night. Playing "The Poet and the Pendulum' is a real rollercoaster ride - it makes me feel anxious, blush, laugh, and, in the end, just happy that that part of my life is behind me.
My notes:
My number 1 Nightwish song and for good reasons.
(No 2, Song of Myself, No 3 7 Days to the Wolves.)
This is a deeply emotional and meaningful song with which I empathise and it helped me to see that there was a way forward when depression struck. I am not alone in being "saved" by Nightwish, a fact that Tuomas has referred to and said he could not terminate the band because he knows they have meant so much to some fans who feel their lives have been saved by Nightwish.
He feels that he has a responsibility to the fans - not your standard rock musician then.
Floor is worth watching closely, her facial, hand and whole-body motions reflect the emotions she is portraying. Hands in Mother and Father for example. Tearing her hair in the Dark Passion Play section.
Note that when Tuomas talks about "Poet" he is always referencing himself. It happens throughout his ouvre.
You will see other cross-references too. Tuomas does that deliberately to give the fans a sort of anchor. Meadows of Heaven is another example - a song in itself and often referenced.
For what it's worth, here are are my thoughts and interpretations...
End to beginning - death of one era of the band, beginning of a new era.
Regarding the end of the first Era, I see no point in the blame game.
The band split, that is all we need to know.
Whatever the causes there was bound to be emotion on both sides so I leave it at that.
But this masterpiece is what came out of Tuomas' emotions.
The beginning is a boy soprano, Guy Elliott who also does the spoken parts. The whispering at the beginning is the central spoken section, but played in reverse.
Then we get the whole section "Home".
I see the "shoulder cries more" as having no shoulder to cry on because the other members of the band - his friends - were equally upset.
The "whore for the cold world" I see as the selling of his whole life to the music industry (the metaphorical pimps, hence the "whore" references) which is not interested in the person, only what they can get from the band.
The two faces bit is self explanatory; almost everyone will have been in situations where they have to hide their feelings and present a false front to the world.
The reference to betrayal is again obvious and there are lots of metaphors in the surrounding words. The altar I think, is the tie to the band - these upheavals in 2004/5 were not the first time Tuomas had felt like ending the band.
By the way, note the 3 minutes and counting: exactly 3 minutes later you get the guillotine motion.
By the way, Marco made the demo version of this, with all the lyrics sung by himself and with harsher lyrics at this point too.
Next we get to the Mother and Father section with Floor, Marco and Emppu all sitting, while Floor sings lyrics reflecting the words from his mother when he went back home for a break in the middle of all this turmoil.
These are the words of love and then of advice, that he was given.
Floor here is using her finger movements to accentuate emotion.
This whole section and the way Floor sings it, is packed with those damned Onion Ninjas.
Marco's harmonies are wonderful.
We end with the final ethereal notes from Floor and here is another tingle-factor moment. Then a gentle piano ending, the calm after the emotional storm.
Here, as in Sparkle my Scenery, the choir on the original album is replaced by Floor who wanted to sing them herself (and proved completely capable of it) which Anette could not have done - she could probably get the notes but the emotion is there in the choral original and is amplified when Floor sings it.
The low brass used in many places is really effective.
On the performance itself:
When Emppu goes over to Tuomas and later both Marco and Emppu go over, it is a sign of moral support. They both know how difficult this is for him - eventually he had the vocals turned off in his in-ear, so he didn't have to listen to them because Floor put such emotion into them.
At the end, she does not say "Thank you" immediately, as she does normally. Instead she looks over for a few seconds to check on him from her position.
BTW, I have never bought the theory that Tuomas was "in love" with Tarja. Those who say he asked her to join the band because he knew her from school - she was suggested by Emppu who had known her as an acquaintance at school.
This is great, thanks Nick!
That was an absolutely great summery of, not only for this song, but for the whole album.
Nightwish Army South Germany Division
There is no better and more apt way of expressing it. This is by far the best commentary on this masterpiece I've seen so far.
Very well done.
Best regards
the lady
I always thought that his shoulder was Tarja. But it could be both, other guys and Tarja 👍🏻
There are two words that I refrain from using because they are sometimes thrown out there too casually. But in this case I think masterpiece and genius are appropriate words to use. Tuomas, as you mentioned, is a genius in composition and orchestration. And to create a masterpiece like this is a demonstration of that genius.
I always like and highly respect your reactions and analysis.
Thank you Robin! I’ve heard a lot of music over the years and I have to say he truly is a genius. 🫶
My absolute favorite song out of all the amazing Nightwish songs. Floor just has a way to reach into your soul with her performance.
Totally agree with your reaction. The band is so tight. When the band members are sitting it reminds me of after his musical funeral where friends and parents are reminiscing. Floors siren call at the end is truly beautiful.
I first heard this song with Annette singing it and didn't think too much of it. I saw them live at Janus Landing in St. Petersburg, FL and the emotion that Floor puts into the song had me in tears and wondering if I had even heard the song before. Great song, but Floor adds a level of emotion that just brings it to life. If I'm not mistaken, Tuomas has said that if Floor ever leaves the band, they will never perform the song again.
Brilliant. What an amazing voice. The band's brilliant to.❤
Kai's drumming is what makes this performance superior over the recorded one (along with Floor of course). The clinical, technical drums adds the feeling of the inevitability of the swinging pendulum.
Proud guard of Queen Floor..... bow before her....
Thanks For Not Forgetting Nightwish
Tuomas is a special person, and he is my musical hero, to me he will always be at the top of the top, among those maybe 5 artist ever who i admire most in history of music.
"I cannot cry 'cause the shoulder cries more' such an immensly powerful lyric for those who know the feeling.
I still cry everytime I saw someone reacting this. So emotional, so everything. Tuomas ❤️🙏🏻🇫🇮
What a beginning - and I'm counting...
It is always a relief for me to hear your professional conmmentary among all those so-called 'reactors' kudos to you sir!
Thank you so much Humphrey I really appreciate it! 🫶
This song is a 'epic' masterpiece 🇸🇪
Looking forward to watching the replay when I get home from work.🤘🤘
Good day for a Nightwish video. June 24 is Emppu's birthday.
Yay Emppu! 🥳
@@StrateleStudios Same here, unfortunately I have duties elsewhere during this premiere.
I'm pretty sure that Mr. Stratele will have wiped away a tear at some point during this song if he got its full meaning.
@@StrateleStudios Basically, Tarja was fired. The gave her a letter after the End of an Era concert, and told her to open it tomorrow. They posted it online too. It is still on the band's website. Tarja had wanted to do a 6th album with limited touring and then go solo. The guys decided to move on then and there. The split needed to happen, but the way they went about it was far less than ideal. The fans took it out on Tuomas, even though all the guys signed.
Yes, it's very personal for Tuomas. You can see Emppu go over to him and ask how he is doing. At the end , Emppu and Marko go to him in a show of support, as they were both involved. Floor even looks over for a moment before saying Thank You. He would often have the sound guys turn off the vocals in his in ears. The last section are some of the words Tuomas' mother said to him when he went home.
This was their longest song when released. Having been eclipsed only by The Greatest Show On Earth, which is the last song at this Wembley show(21 minutes)
They were super fortunate to be blessed with both Jukka and Kai…two phenomenal drummers who melded so perfectly with this phenomenal band 🤘🤘
Thanks, Jeff. Such a powerful, emotional journey. I wasn't planning to shed tears today but, you know, Floor. ❤
The most epic song! Especially the cello in part 3, it immediately brings tears to my eyes!
This is a true masterpiece, there are so many little details in this song. Everything has a meaning. The most obvious, but still overlooked by most who don't know, is that the "death scene" when the pendulum strikes is EXACTLY 3 minutes after the moment he says, "Now I only have 3 minutes left ..."
I love this dark composition, a real catharsis
And the tightness of bass and drums is even more incredible when you consider Marko often sings in different rhythm while playing the bass. Doing two complicated and different things at the same time and nailing both.
🤩👌💥💯🎼
"The end......... The beginning"
And Helluwa Lot in between!!!
Marko's 'thrash metal' Slayer - like part with that bass line and harsh vocals comes like a lighting and the demo version of this freakin awesome track is worth to listen of Utuub universe... All sung by Mr. Metal here in Finland, fairly said... 😉
Cool Cool reaction män and Can't wait to see your reaction onto the next epic piece of their tasty live repertoire :
"The Greatest Show On Earth"
🤘😎 🇫🇮 💙
Thank you ❤Amazing Nightwish ❤
This song and performance, I call it my cure. I didn´t know the backstory when I first heard it. I only felt that this song spoke to me, literally changing the direction of my life. It helped me heal and escape the darkness. So much love to Tuomas and Nightwish. Kiitos
Been waiting so long for you to react to this one. My favourite metal song of all time (specifically this performance). Note the lyrics "i only have three minites and counting".... exactly three minutes later in the song Tuomas brings down the blade across his throat on stage.
Marco's distorted vocals are stellar, and Floor.... well, Floor is Floor.... everything she does is perfection.
Good evening from Belgium Jeff🤟
A reaction on par with the song in question, as we have come to take for granted from your wonderful videos. Many thanks.
Ah man, that made my day 🥹❤️
I only ever hear this song when its being reacted to by genuine reactors and analyses like yourself. And it hits me every single time
Thank you so much Gene! 😊🫶
Thank you Mr Jeff. Great reaction for one of the most beautiful song I ever heard. ❤
Glad you enjoyed it! 🫶
The Poet and the Pendulum was written after firing Tarja the original singer. She was the face of Nightwish at the time, and Tuomas (Keyboards) wrote this and considered her a muse to many of the songs he had written at that point. They had also grown up in the same city and knew each other since early childhood. All the band members decided together to fire her for acting too much of a diva And her husband & Manager was stepping way outta bounds concerning the band business He always wanted more money , only big paying show but the band did it for the love of music and there fans . According to all the band members, Tarja was missing lots of rehearsals and would not even travel with the band anymore. Tuomas was painted as the devil by many fans, and went through a deep depression. He even considered ending the band . He wrote The Poet and the Pendulum at that time, and actually kills himself in the song. He said he killed himself in the song at the 10:00 time stamp , as to kill the pain he was going through . To this day every time he plays it, it takes him back to those feelings, and shows on his face. In the last part, Mother and Father, words are said to him that his real mother said to him at that time of his deep depression. One part that touches me at the end when the guitarist Emppu and bassist Marko, the only other two involved with firing Tarja (that were still active with the band)were standing with Tuomas at the end in solidarity and love., NOTE : the 1st two words are (The End) and the last two words are (The Beginning) representing the end of the 1st era of Nightwish and the beginning of the next era
Thx for your reaction...its always nice when someone lower jaw drops from confusion and admiration all the time😁🤭🤭 .
This song brings me to tears every time. Masterpiece by Tuomas, one of its kind. I love every 5 different parts of this song ❤.
Every time I hear it I think: What a beautiful master piece.
great reaction. you know when not to speak and than your face tells it all, without interrupting the song, good work man, thnx
Thank you so much!
Best rendering of the 5 stages of grief ever !!!!!!111
Guitar Emppu and bass Marco check is Tuomas ok, in this song.
Touching 🥺
❤❤❤I loved your reaction and the feelings you shared about a song that is deeply appreciated by Nightwish fans. I found them on RUclips and have become a huge fan my biggest pleasure is watching new people react the same as I did. In a sense the emotion drips off of every note they hit vocally or musically. Well done Sir!
✌❤T.NoBoDY (New Subscriber)
Thank you dear friend!
Thank you for a thoughtful, knowledgeable and well observed reaction. Your observation about Thuomas’ mastery of the orchestral score was spot on. You were also right about how Thuomas put his heart and soul into this song.
A stunning masterpiece.
Thank you! 🫶
❤ thank you ❤
I love y music analysis. Very high professional knowledgeableness. Good midsummer from scandinavia ❤.
Thank you very much! 🫶
That 3 minute mark is epic songwriting❤
Wow. Have waited for you to do this one. This will be interesting.
Wow never heard this masterpiece before, certainly unique in the modern music. And floor is insane
Tarja and Nightwish have since (quite recently) made peace and are friends again
Good to hear!
Thank you for this reaction. You're the best.
Thank you my friend! 🫶
Thanks for digging in on this one, Jeff. It's a truly masterful composition. Three things always stand out to me: (1) This song was written way before Floor joined the band, but the empathy she builds into her performance makes the first-person lyrical phrasing come to life. (2) Kai's drumming is perfect throughout, starting with the way it 'waves in' as the second section starts, ending with his frantic double-kicks. (3) As I've mentioned before, the setlist mastery always gets me, starting with the positivity of 'Alpenglow', then the despair of 'Poet' and finally the recovery offered to the fans by the next song, 'Nemo'. Wembley was taken on an amazing rollercoaster ride, as have we all.
Thank you so very much for your reaction! Did i see at +/_ 7 min.58 sec. Tuomas having tears in his eyes? And did you hear the silence of the fans? Bye Jeff
Oh wow 🥺
It's the best lyric ever for me.
An epic masterpiece from the kings and queen of epic. This performance was perfect. I can’t listen to those slower parts, the music, Floor’s voice, the ocean on the big screen, without chills and a tear. Nice reaction! Thanks for that!
Thank you my friend! 🫶
This song is after Jukka left and Kai joined Nightwish as another awesome drummer in his own right! I especially like Empuu’s lead guitar work! Btw Jeff, you were right on about Heavy Metal music, I never thought I could like something so much as I do the music of Nightwish, I can and I do listen to them consistently without every tiring! ♥️
welcome to the experience and music of Nightwish all these extremely gifted musicians and the fact that they made/ infused Finnish heavy metal music with the colors, sounds and arrangements and accents of the symphony
You may enjoys these…
ruclips.net/p/PLlwnPYj0TbtpTtV8C5kzSK7BECzCyPp4h&si=XW_zxeoVk0xKEvZR
Thank you for this reaction. There are more songs by Nightwish that through dynamics and beauty can move me. As science person I love The Greatest Show on Earth and other songs of the last two albums (such as Shoemaker), but this The Poet and the Pendulum live strikes some nerves.
NW Army Canada, checking in.
I’m stoked!
Lovey reaction.
Theses noise Floor makes in the end - every time I hear that it cuts into my heart! So beautiful and sad, like a dying siren never to be heard on earth again...😢
that straight ahead forward driving force of a wall of sounds and colors and layers. One more thing the music that this band composes and arranges is very intellectually stimulating and not just the music they write but the sounds they incorporate/bring the versatility of each member of the band
Just discovered your channel few days ago and have already watched most of your videos and all your Nightwish reactions. I love how you feel the music and how you get touched and moved the same way I am. Also, I appreciate the fact that you emphasize on lots of aspects which catch my attention like the double kick, the bass, chromatic descending, offbeats... Regards from Spain.
Thank you my friend! My family roots are in Spain, I love it there. I was recently in Barcelona. What part of Spain are you in? 🫶
Great reaction my friend. I have a shitload of fav NW songs, but this is up there with the best...
Yes...he's amazing on the double bass drum...
The brilliance, nuance and mastery of Tuomas’ songwriting and lyrics never ceases to amaze me. If you run a timer from where he says “I have 3 minutes and counting “ it is at 3 minutes when he simulates with his hand the pendulum cutting his throat. Amazing!🤘🤘
It is indeed also about Tarja, childhood friend of Tuomas and Emppu) leaving the band, but more about the devastating backlash from Media, Finnish politicians, even prime minister (yes) , fans and even "friends". Allthough it was a descission made by all, Tuomas carried the blame and it became way too much. It's very relatable to me and I can not listen to this beautiful music piece too often. It goes straight threw the heart. Thank you sir for your reaction
Thank you sir ❤ ❤❤, you are a great communicator 🙏👍
Thank you my friend! 😊🫶
Great reaction, matey. This composition deserves much respect.
So emotional. One of the best pieces of rock music I've ever heard and live, with Floor, it's phenomenal in its impact.
🤘😎🤘
Thanks my friend!
Despite four albums worth of material after it, counting the album it opens, Poet might be the pinnacle of NW's "symphonic metal" work, their best fitting combination of band, vocals, and the orchestral, IMO. And It's this particular performance: the studio version was impressive, but here Marco's changed-up delivery, Floor's superior contrasts and theatricality, and Kai rapid playing style ramped up the drama and impact, turning it next-level great.
Great Reaction 👍.....what can you say about this song that hasnt been said thousands of times ....they say theyll never perform it again , i hope they ( tuomas ) changes his mind , i have to see it live .
During this song Tuomas use to have the monitor engineer turn off all vocals in his monitors (speakers and in ears) .
And Notice how Empuu and Marko go up to stand beside Tuomas at the end of the song.
An angel landed on earth and sings with NW
Even the birds did fly of when the double kicks came in.................
I literally laughed out loud when I read this! 🤣
i really hope tuomas music find a way movie and tv series world. thanx to great reaction and have wonderful day. still nightwish best song is meadows of heaven and that song usa gospel singer what make that song the last touch.
For me what stands out the most is the masterful drums of Kai 🤟🏻
When Tarja was kicked out of the band, it was a real nightmare. She was such a beloved lead singer and integral part of the band's sound that a lot of fans were understandably angry about the decision. Not just fans either, I'm sure, but also friends etc. It's not a great place to have to put yourself into, and all of this is reflected upon in the lyrics
Wembley Arena England
Epic is all i can say
Hi, very beautiful reaction
Thank you so much 😊 🫶
here you are again, sneaking into the box of chocolates........and you found one of those special pieces we look for......just oh ssssoooo ggooooddd...such a special band
😂🤣😂
🥲🇫🇮💙🪄🎼✨💯🤘
Mr. CasterCaster, have great summer 🍻☀️👍💙🇫🇮
Hahaha you too! 😃😃😃🫶
Thanks