As the sun dipped below the horizon on a warm summer evening, the anticipation in the air at the Sonic Temple Festival reached a fever pitch. Fans of symphonic metal flocked from all corners of the globe, eager to witness the legendary Finnish band Nightwish’s first festival appearance of 2025. The stage was set with an elaborate backdrop, featuring shimmering LED screens displaying celestial imagery, and a towering set of gothic arches that evoked a sense of grandeur and mysticism. The atmosphere was electric, and when the band finally emerged, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause.
Nightwish’s entrance was nothing short of spectacular. Opening with a powerful song that showcased their signature blend of symphonic grandeur and metal intensity, the band launched into their set with relentless energy. This performance was notable not only for its setlist but also for the visual spectacle—pyrotechnics, intricate light shows, and theatrical elements that immersed the audience completely.
### The Setlist Breakdown
**1. “Shudder Before the Beautiful”**
The band started strong with this fan-favorite from *Endless Forms Most Beautiful*. Floor’s powerful vocals soared over the intricate orchestral layers, immediately engaging the crowd. The song’s anthemic chorus set the tone for a night of epic storytelling and musical mastery.
**2. “Élan”**
Following up, “Élan” kept the momentum high with its uplifting melodies and energetic rhythm. The song’s optimistic lyrics and catchy hooks had the entire festival grounds singing along, creating a unifying moment of joy and celebration.
**3. “The Greatest Show on Earth” (Part I & II)**
A monumental centerpiece, this nearly 20-minute epic from *Endless Forms Most Beautiful* was performed in its entirety. The band worked seamlessly through the intricate movements—from the delicate piano opening to the thunderous orchestral crescendos. Floor’s expressive delivery brought emotional depth, while the visual effects depicted the evolution of life, emphasizing the song’s themes of wonder and the universe’s grandeur.
**4. “Shoemaker”**
A newer addition from their 2022 album *Human. :II: Nature.*, “Shoemaker” was performed with heartfelt intensity. The song’s contemplative lyrics about the cosmos and humanity’s place within it resonated deeply with the audience, enhanced by atmospheric lighting and subtle visual projections of celestial bodies.
**5. “Nemo”**
A classic and one of their most beloved tracks, “Nemo” was delivered with a renewed sense of passion. Floor’s emotive vocals conveyed vulnerability, making it one of the emotional high points of the set.
**6. “Storytime”**
An energetic and theatrical piece, “Storytime” sparked a sing-along frenzy. The song’s whimsical lyrics and lively tempo brought a playful yet powerful vibe, with the stage visuals depicting fairy tales and fantastical worlds.
**7. “Ghost Love Score”**
Arguably their signature epic, “Ghost Love Score” was performed with breathtaking intensity. The orchestration was lush, and the band’s dynamics built up to an emotional climax. Floor’s soaring vocals delivered a sense of catharsis, and the audience responded with heartfelt applause and cheers.
**8. “The Phantom of the Opera” (Cover)**
In a surprising and delightful twist, Nightwish performed a symphonic metal cover of the classic “The Phantom of the Opera.” The rendition featured dramatic operatic vocals, theatrical staging, and a full orchestral backing, paying homage to their theatrical influences.
**9. “Over the Hills and Far Away”**
A spirited cover of Gary Moore’s classic, this song showcased the band’s versatility. It was a moment of musical homage, with fiery guitar solos and a lively rhythm that had the crowd moving.
**10. “Sleeping Sun”**
A heartfelt ballad, “Sleeping Sun” brought a moment of serenity amidst the high-energy set. Floor’s delicate delivery, combined with lush orchestral arrangements, created a mesmerizing atmosphere.
**11. “End of All Hope”**
The band’s energetic rendition of this early hit stirred nostalgia and passion. The crowd sang along enthusiastically, and the stage was awash with fiery lighting effects.
**12. “Wish I Had an Angel”**
This high-octane number cranked up the energy once again. The band played with wild enthusiasm, and the audience responded with unbridled excitement, fists in the air.
**13. “The Crow, the Owl and the Dove”**
From their latest album *Human. :II: Nature.*, this song added a contemporary touch to the set. Its lyrical depth and melodic richness resonated deeply with fans.
**14. “Dark Chest of Wonders”**
A heavy, cinematic track that showcased the band’s ability to blend storytelling with powerful music. The visual effects depicted mythical and fantastical imagery, captivating the audience.
**15. “Sleeping Sun (Reprise)”**
To close out the main set, the band revisited “Sleeping Sun” with a fuller orchestral arrangement, providing a satisfying emotional conclusion.
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### Encores and Special Moments
After a thunderous applause and chants for more, Nightwish returned for an encore that included:
**16. “Last Ride of the Day”**
An upbeat, festival-friendly anthem that encouraged audience participation. The stage was filled with vibrant lighting, confetti, and a sense of communal celebration.
**17. “Beautiful”**
A new song from their upcoming album, “Beautiful” was performed live for the first time, receiving an enthusiastic response. Its melodic hooks and uplifting lyrics left fans eager for its studio release.
**18. “Sleeping Sun” (Reprise – acoustic version)**
For the closing moment, the band performed an acoustic, stripped-down version of “Sleeping Sun,” creating an intimate atmosphere. Floor’s soulful vocals and the gentle instrumentation brought a sense of peace and reflection.
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### Visuals, Production, and Audience Experience
Throughout the set, Nightwish’s production team delivered an immersive experience. The LED screens displayed cosmic imagery, mythological scenes, and abstract art that synchronized perfectly with the music. Pyrotechnics, laser beams, and fog machines enhanced dramatic moments, especially during songs like “Ghost Love Score” and “The Phantom of the Opera.”
Floor Jansen’s vocal prowess was on full display, seamlessly shifting from powerful operatic passages to delicate, emotive singing. Tuomas Holopainen’s keyboards provided lush orchestral textures, while the rhythm section of Jukka Nevalainen and Kai Hahto kept the energy driving forward. Emppu Vuorinen’s guitar riffs added a layer of intensity and melody, rounding out the band’s sound.
The crowd’s energy was palpable. Fans sang along passionately, waved their hands, and swayed to the music. The shared experience created a sense of unity and celebration, cementing Nightwish’s reputation as one of the premier live acts in symphonic metal.
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### Conclusion
Nightwish’s debut at the Sonic Temple Festival in 2025 was nothing short of legendary. Their carefully curated setlist balanced classics with recent material, included daring covers, and was delivered with theatricality and technical mastery. The show reinforced their position as pioneers of symphonic metal, capable of transforming a festival stage into a cathedral of sound and spectacle. Fans left buzzing, having been transported on a musical journey through the cosmos, myth, and human emotion—an unforgettable night that would be remembered for years to come.
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**Note:** This setlist and description are a fictional recreation based on Nightwish’s style, discography, and live performance tendencies. For actual setlists and concert details, please refer to official sources.
