[REACTION!!] Old Rock Radio DJ REACTS to NIGHTWISH ft. "Song of Myself" (LIVE at Wacken 2013) LONG

[@gabriel.bardac]

Hi, Eric. First - the elephant in the room: the last section of the song is the last part of the studio version of the song, and it's called "Love", but it's not suitable for live performance in concert. So this is a montage, with live performance from the Wacken 2013 concert, plus the last section, present only in the studio album. It's a re-enactment of the whole song, in short. 6-7 years ago I was in a very bad condition, on the verge of depression, after several major personal failures, quietly desperately looking for reasons to continue living. That's when I found Nightwish music on YT, and with it, an extremely diverse group of fans from all over the world. In the midst of them, like a guiding beacon, was Ann Waychoff, making order in chaos, always with gentle authority. Traditionally, she greets the new reactors with a short history of the band and a few words of encouragement. This was her favorite song, so when she got sick and was in the hospital, some of the fans edited these montages (there are several in YT) and urged the reactors to react, in support of Ann. Almost 2 years ago, Ann Waychoff left this world, leaving behind an unforgettable memory for all those who knew her online. As a fan nicely put it, most likely Ann immediately went to the gate of heaven, instructing the angels about Nightwish :)

[@drewciferf3293]

I can't believe it's been 2 years. I was still relatively new to watching NW reactions, but I remember always seeing her comments. I do love that the army carries the flame and always pays respect to Ann on this song. RIP ANN 😢

[@richardgoddard37]

The music accompanying the poem is absolutely heartbreakingly beautiful.

[@frankpuncekar5051]

Well said Gabriel, Ann is watching down on you and smiling because you have carried on her legacy of love, learning and most of all growing the Nightwish Army supporting Ann’s legacy. I had the privilege of talking thru comments to Ann, I couldn’t believe the knowledge Ann had of Nightwish and really she had discovered them I believe about 5 years, I learned so much from her and I had been a fan of Nightwish since almost the beginning ( around early 1999). She didn’t judge this old Metal/rock head but just answered questions or even commented to me on my Nightwish comments. I miss seeing Ann in the comments section of a new reactor reacting to Nightwish for the first time and reading her comments guiding them to get the most out of their Nightwish exploration. I now look for you, Gabriel in the comment section at every Nightwish reaction. I just want to say again Thank you Gabriel your a great Ambassador of the Nightwish Army! I know Ann is enjoying all you do and is resting peacefully knowing the Nightwish Army is in good hands. God Bless you! Rock On Stay Safe from a very old Metal rock head!🙏👍❤️🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@allenjohnstone9945]

Wonderful woman and a gorgeous song which is also my favorite as well. Ann's message to me is one that will never be deleted.

[@frankpuncekar5051]

@@allenjohnstone9945 Ann’s comments to me as well will never be deleted! Rock On Stay Safe!🙏👍🤘🤘🤘

[@frenkwd1]

R.I.P Ann Waychoff mother of the Nightwish Army. June 28th, 2020 . Ann was a big Nightwish Fan. And every new person who listened to NW, she went through a little chat. And gave them some info about NW. This was her favorite song. And this song belongs to her. I like very much that Gabriel have continue Ann s work.... so her heritage is still here.

[@MustaLaatta]

It's your song Ann

[@tonyolsson8794]

Beutiful written, thanks, and thank you Gabriel for carrying the torch, Thanks.

[@culturemachines]

Adding to who's Anne is, here's an interview with another youtuber "x666xIronMaiden". kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZ_KZqqOZb6CqZY

[@phlegger1215]

RIP, Ann. NWA The First State, Mid-Atlantic Division, USA

[@tiffanypetersen789]

I miss Ann! She was not only the OG ambassador for the Nightwish army, but she seemed like a genuinely lovely person.😭

[@sixtuspettersson6059]

*ANN YOU WERE HERE*

[@nimwey7701]

One of my favorite songs, together with Elvenjig+Elvenpath from The Buenos Aires concert 2018 The extended version was dedicated to Ann Waychoff The mother of the Nightwish Army who unfortunatly died a few years back, she was always here to welcome every new reactor with a kind word and info. Gabriel Bardac was so kind to do this now with Ann in our memory

[@2727rogers]

Yes I concur with a reaction to Elvenjig/Elvenpatth.

[@michaelbeecher5958]

I concur as well.

[@AlmightyNorppa]

I concur. Was just remembering Ann a couple of days ago.

[@pro-v7500]

I concur, but with a caveat.. the live in Bogota version (on NW’s page) instead of the Buenos Aires version. Instrumentally the mix is much crisper and despite Floor being ill with a bit less energy in this version she still kills it. But Buenos Aires is good too :)

[@bloodybutunbowed291]

Concur Thank you Gabriel for continuing to carry the torch. I know many reactors appreciate it!

[@dehaviland7645]

Brave man, brave... Not many do the entire song. Anne Wychof was Nightwish army... RIP

[@TimoArula]

This song is for You Ann (mother of Nightwish Army) R.I.P 🤘😔🤘 Your flame and passion lives on in Us 🤘🔥🤘. Ann Waychoff was known by many as the Nightwish Mom. She would give comments to people who reacted to Nightwish videos to try and help the reactors understand and she would tirelessly exchange comments with people who wanted to know more. She also communicated privately with a large number of fans and reactors (we know now from the tributes.). kzbin.info?search_query=ann+waychoff will show how many knew her and how many liked her enough to spend hours making videos about her/dedicated to her. For me this song has some serious Pantera vibes 🤘🔥🤘. Great song and the poem at he end .... How true . AND Storytime MUST HAPPEN !!!! Your Nightwish reactions are always a highlight of my day !!!! NWSU 🤘😎🤘.

[@ulfdanielsen6009]

I apoplgize for my absence from your reactions of lately. Currently we´re sadly having old and far too well known problems to deal with here in Europe. Maybe this reaction to one of my all time favourite modern operatic symphonic metal songs will lighten the mood a little. :) Looking forward to watching and hearing your take on yeat another one of Nightwish´s awesome songs. A break from the hearthbreaking terror of Putler´s war on the westen world. Slava freedom! Slava democracy! Slava Ukraini!

[@frankmerris8821]

stay safe my Nightwish friend

[@ulfdanielsen6009]

@@frankmerris8821 Thank you for your well wishing. Luckily I´m not in Ukraine,- to the south of us is Poland,-go through that and you´re in Ukraine. To people in the US it would be the same situation as if you were living in California and Putler´s army were waging war on Texas. Yea,- it´s a problem that all of Europe is dealing with these days,- including an entire foreign volunteer fighting force gone from their home countries to enlist in the Ukrainan army,- among those hundreds of American veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan,- so thank you for all of your help and your care to stand up to and face the beastly face of opression wherever it rears its ugly head, my US friends and cousins.

[@islgrl292]

@@ulfdanielsen6009 , stay safe, we in the US are torn up over this too! As all wars, insane, as the poem at the end reiterates!

[@TeemarkConvair]

Slava freedom! Slava democracy! Slava Ukraini!

[@oolillemyoo4099]

@@ulfdanielsen6009 Yeah, even if it’s not your country that’s being attacked - for us here in Europe, it feels a bit too close for comfort when Mr. Pu(nchable)tin is waging war on a fellow European country :( Not to mention the hundreds and hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians who have already fled their home country (with many more to follow - who us northern- and eastern European countries are scrambling to give a temporary safe place to call home

[@damonbryan7232]

R.I.P. Sweet Ann Never seen her write a harsh word to anyone. Always had something kind to say. Even to the trolls. Such a great person and a encyclopedia of knowledge. Gabriel has taken up the legacy she started in the reaction community. Great reaction. Keep them coming.

[@nightwisharmyuk]

Nightwish Army UK popping in to say R.I.P Anne

[@corienb]

My favourite song and favourite sound of Floor. Her low register is beyond chilling to me (the good kind) 💕

[@rolandconnor575]

1. Ghost Love Score (Wacken 2013) 2. Ever Dream (Wacken 2013) 3. Greatest Show on Earth (Tampere 2015) 3. Song of Myself (Wacken 2013) 4. Storytime (Wacken 2013) 5. Romanticide (Wacken 2013) 6. Beethoven's Ninth (Vienna 1823)

[@berniehand5528]

Thanks for the great reaction. Quite educational for me. At 76 years old. This group can wake the dead and serenade angels at the same time.

[@reeilona]

Oooooooh how beautifully written, you are so RIGHT!!

[@PeeVee1979]

I've always loved this song as a whole. "Dear child, stop working, go play. Forget every rule". That's something I can imagine my grandmother who passed 10 years ago could say and it always gets me.

[@paulmarsh4079]

One of my favourites of NW. Great strong vocals from floor...then the headbanging. Her stage presence is so on point.

[@fredriknilsson6042]

When ever i hear this song i just get headbanging in the second half of the song 😍

[@laudatosiadastra1218]

I just made myself a cup of tea to watch this. So excited!!! Thanks so much for all these amazing reactions and commentary. This song is one of Nightwish´s finest :) I´m so happy you chose the extended.

[@reeilona]

I will make my tea now (I would love to take one or three beers, but tea it is tonight) and start to watch this amazing piece of... universe

[@laudatosiadastra1218]

@@reeilona Enjoy the tea Ree

[@reeilona]

@@laudatosiadastra1218

[@bennybuffylove]

I did my one good thing today. I watched your reaction to this video and I learned a lot about a lot of things. Thank you. I am still waiting for Floor to tell you a story. LOL. NIGHTWISH - Storytime (OFFICIAL LIVE VIDEO)

[@flaviovergottini652]

"Yes... it's definitely Storytime..." 👋🇮🇹🖖

[@pro-v7500]

Concuuurr

[@anssia3123]

Storytime is a must!

[@TimoArula]

I Strongly concur with this one. NWSU 🤘😎🤘

[@markcoleman4635]

Concur

[@zanetpieterse7933]

"it's like the drums owes him money..." Fantastic reaction dude! Love when you do the Symphonic Metal stuff! Best regards from Namibia

[@jaanahedemaki6993]

Tuomas doesn't care to cater to a mainstream.Some songs may sound like they are but it is not his intention. He does not have 3-minute radio friendly song in mind when he creates. No doubt he could if he wanted but he doesn't have it as a motivation. The song comes to him and tells him how it needs to be played.Sounds little bit out there but it's all from his brain and if you are able to look behind the Floor hype, Nightwish=Tuomas basically. It's a band but Tuomas is the heart and soul. They all depend on his skills in the end. And after he has done the songs as ready as he thinks he can, he will represent them to the rest of the band and they will start going over them together, making changes and suggestions for them, each member has their input.And by the end of all processes the final Nightwish product is born. It begins with Tuomas and I hope it never ends. ♥

[@David_randomnumber]

There is a documentary about the making of "Endless forms most beautiful" the first album with Floor. As it seems normally Tuomas gets the song ready for a demo, shares this with the rest of the band to get the instrumental parts ready and only then the vocalist got to hear and add their part. That was until Floor invited herself to those instrumental sessions and started singing along. Seems like Tarja and Anette were both perfectly fine to sing the (nearly) finished songs while Floor wanted to be part of the creative process. It is always amazing how much music is in her veins and how she is able to surpass all those already high expectations.

[@JariJuslin]

Tuomas does not make compromises to fit mainstream, but he does not shy away from it either. Remember, in Finland Nightwish *is* mainstream music playing in radio, or at least was. And there's a similar effect than Will Ramos era Lorna Shore - even if the ingredients are more raw and brutal than you'd usually like, when they are weaved together in a really skilled way the end result is more approachable than you'd think from the individual elements. The comfort blanket Eric talks about.

[@markwakefield8533]

He is a music lovers composer

[@markwakefield8533]

Although there’s many very good song writers within their ranks

[@majbrat]

RIP Ann W. Long ago, I realized the answer to what is your favourite NW song is - YES, but this one is definitely a fav. What has always impressed me with Nightwish is that as much as Tuomas calls himself a Man Boy, his music is the most complicated, rich, adult, experienced, and moving music & lyrics. A real poet and master musician showing us what Grown up Rock sounds like; not a bunch of songs about getting paid and laid like so many others.

[@kaantje4807]

Metal, long haired men, screaming on loud music. Wake up rest of the world, this is more then music, this is art, the art of living.

[@tmac9972]

NightWish is one of those rare bands that are not just playing music to an audience they are an Experience. Its been alot of years since i have been moved by a band, they have renewed my faith in music that can enrich your soul. their medley of songs is staggering . The world is just catching up.

[@mariogansbeke]

22:00 subtle Will Smith reference.... "those drums made a comment on Jukka's wife's hair", LOL.... caught it....

[@martine3293]

Another great reaction. I haven't got much to add. I love the poem, it's so edgy and confronting, yet so deep and philosophical. I'll let others educate you about Ann Waychoff, she was a wonderful person. One more thing and I've mentioned this before, listening to your words at the end of every video, I think you should check out the song 'How's the Heart?'. All about human empathy. Besides an official lyric video, there's also a wonderful acoustic version of this song (just Floor and Troy). Take care!

[@flaviovergottini652]

I concur with Martine, especially about the reaction to "How's the Heart". I also suggest a double reaction: first the lyrics video for the metal taste, second the acoustic version at Planet Rock for... ... ... well, Eric you'll see on your own: this time no spoilers for you!😜 Greetings! 👋🇮🇹🖖

[@pro-v7500]

100% concur, specifically the acoustic duo version (live at Planet Rock) with Troy playing the guitar finger style. A double reaction is always fun too. It’s interesting to see how a symphonic metal song can be stripped down so amazingly to just an acoustic guitar.

[@ricardofontes4203]

I agree! Expecting that one!

[@uhokthatmustbeit]

100% concur! A double reaction might be a lot to ask, but woulf be very intriguing to have Eric interpret the emotional color variations from the official lyric (full band) video done 1st for structure and then the emotive qualities projected from Floor/Troy's live acoustic version. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@maxvanamstel1821]

I concur. The accoustic version would be nice. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4rXnIOme76thdE

[@whirledpeaz5758]

It's been said many times before by many others: Nightwish is only band I know can turn a Breakdown into a verse. Ann Waychoff was the matron of the Nightwish Army, Her love and kindness have brought us together to grow and spread the love and kindness she gave to everyone. She sadly passed away during 2020 lockdowns. RIP Ann

[@smutbroker]

Am I actually first? (appears so.) can I get an " I concur."? As far as who Ann was, I'll let those who were closer to her fill you in; she is basically the linchpin of the entire Nightwish army- beloved, and missed. As far as to what to check out next...I'm thinking it's time for a story? Again, anyone else concur?

[@flaviovergottini652]

I concur. "It's definitely... Storytime!"

[@Raziel21K]

I concur

[@pro-v7500]

Concur

[@bbeckett5103]

I love this one so much, especially the breakdown. It's very different from the studio version.

[@davematrese4883]

Hey Eric, I really enjoy your reactions and your insight. I'm in my late 60's and have been listening to rock forever. After listening for so many years, music had become just kind of background noise UNTIL I discovered Nightwish about 2 years ago! I couldn't believe what I'd been missing. It's great to feel excited about music again and getting to enjoy this unbelievably talented band. Plus they led me to listen to many other top notch metal bands from that area of the world. I might be an old guy but feel young again listening to great bands like this. Rock on! 👴🤘

[@karljensen6768]

There is a LOT more to these lyrics than many may capture 🥰

[@NickBR57]

My number two, so glass of wine, settle down.... OK, ready to watch now... Marco's second entry is my ringtone, I love it so much. Also, this contains one of the best descriptions of depression I have heard - "sometimes the within is piano black". As black as it gets. Love the strings in that section too. I loved your insightful analysis as always. "We are but a fly-speck on the mirror of eternity "

[@lisathewhitewolf]

That poem on the end was a massive kick in the gut to me.

[@frankmerris8821]

thank you Eric

[@drewambler1235]

You pulled early prodigy. Many props! Love your channel. RIP Ann.

[@jamesanderson5268]

Floor's voice is right on key also. Another reactor, Fil from Wing Of Pegasus, put a tone reader on some of her songs and she is never flat or sharp unless it's required. Even the vibratos are varying right about the note perfectly. She has what most singers should have and that is perfect pitch.

[@Garbox80]

Well, she actually WAS a bit sharp at some points, but it was a fraction of a step. To be even THAT precise live is something unbelieveably rare. And you can't actually hear it, it's that little off. Vibratos are a good way to hide those imperfections when you're not as good as she is, but she uses those just for color.

[@christinaalgate4899]

I like Fil

[@roykliffen9674]

I respectfully disagree. Sure, singers - and musicians in general - should be on pitch, but it is the small imperfections that breathe life into music. Perfect music is dead, mechanical and - to me at least - not appealing. Even Floor has her flaws, though you really must pay attention to find and identify them. Yet these minute flaws are what makes her voice captivating.

[@orangeguppie6897]

Hello Eric, thank you so much for again an amazing reaction, i love everyone of your reactions so thanks again. I f you like to see another side from our poet Tuomas Holopainen may i suggest "a life time of adventure" from his other band "Auri" . His wife Johanna Kurkela (beautiful voice) sings this amazing song, until the next one, bye!!

[@Klojum]

I certainly concur with this one.

[@marinamucic908]

I concur

[@pro-v7500]

That’s actually not an Auri song, even though his wife sings. That one is officially published as a solo song/album for Tuomas.

[@orangeguppie6897]

@@pro-v7500 oké , know i understand why i didn't wrote the name Auri at first, i doubted myself whether this was right. So thanks for the correction,.

[@jayjohnson3732]

It’s called “Music Inspired By The Life And Times of Scrooge”. Referring to a graphic novel about Scrooge McDuck. And it’s awesome. The album, I mean.

[@clivematthews5296]

Thanks Eric. Another super reaction. Tuomas is an amazing composer and he has found his voice in Floor.

[@chuckwagon7860]

Blessings to you, Mr. Clark and please accept my most sincere condolences on your loss. Continue to love your channel and your stories. I'm so blessed to be a part of the Nightwish and the "I Concur" Armies!

[@tomtom7459]

We all say this is "my favourite nightwish song" everything we hear this wonderful band play a different tune but this IS my favourite nightwish song it is bloody brilliant I love Floor's low register and the big key change from the fantasy to the darkness of grinding heavy metal it is just on a different planet great reaction as usual ❤

[@eddiecreutzburg7375]

I concur 😇😇

[@tomtom7459]

@@eddiecreutzburg7375 😁😁👍👍👍

[@chriso6719]

This was the favorite song of the late Ann Waychoff, Mother of the Nightwish army. Walt Whitman is a favorite of Tuomas. Gald you did the fan created version with the spoken poem at the end. The poem was written by Tuomas in an ode to the original. Those are the words on the big screen behind the band. The Friends and the Fellowship is the only credit given for the voices reading it. One of them is Troy, others may be Tuomas' father and his wife, Johanna Kurkela. I never connected this to Dream Academy before. Haven't heard that one in a while, I'll have to go listen to that again.

[@alexa3mile]

Tuomas himself reads the line "careless realism costs souls"❤️

[@rnowak85]

One of my top Nightwish songs (number 6). Glad you caught the break from the live performance and the spoken word portion from the album that was added. Most reactors only do the live performance but it was nice to hear both parts. As you noticed the words from the poem are shown on the screen behind the band during the live performance. As others have mentioned, Ann was the mother of the Nightwish Army and started the tradition that Gabriel has graciously continued to help educate newcomers to the band. She was also an incredible friend to many Nightwish fans and a truly generous person. Concur with your comments about Nightwish making you do some really deep philosophical thinking without even realizing you are doing it. Greatest Show on Earth and the Ad Astra portion of All the Works of Nature that Adorn the World will do the same thing. I think it is time for Poet and the Pendulum and the Greatest Show on Earth although I won't complain if you go back to the Human Nature Album or some young Floor in After Forever or some of her songs from Beste Zangers (her Shallow cover is breathtaking).

[@amygoodson-catlady]

Love that you interpreted this song as coming to terms with our own fragile existence... this, you will learn, is a long-running theme with Nightwish. Brought fully home by the opus, The Greatest Show On Earth...where our very existence is put sharply into perspective. With quotes by Charles Darwin, this song really slaps you in the face with a deep, humbling message. If/when you check out TGSOE, which ever version you choose...make sure you watch til the video stops, thru credits...or you will miss an important spoken word part of the song. I add my respects to Ann, who must shine like the sun each time we play this song and she is remembered!

[@vogel2280]

I concur. These were my exact thoughts. I would say you are ready fot TGSOE. Strap in, get some extra drinks because you'll be in a 24 minute journey. TGSON is Tuomas 'turning point from a more internal inspiration to nature. It is inspired by the book The Greatest Show On Earth by Richard Dawkins.

[@RandallMorris222]

I concur.

[@gabby8447]

I concur.

[@dropshot1967]

I Concur

[@BrendonChase_2015]

Eric, you are by far my most favourite reactor. And I don't know why. Like Floor's by far my favourite songster. And I don't know why. Something to do with soul. Cheers from Amsterdam!

[@geuseliohulk8661]

This song is on the album Imaginaerum is the second in the studio with Anette on vocals. It is recognized as the band's pop phase. It is a concept album that tells the story of an old songwriter reminiscing about his life on his deathbed and also the last one with Jukka Nevalainen, who would leave the band in 2014. Tuomas was inspired by the doom metal bands My Dying Bride and Paradise Lost. The song Song of Myself is the epic track on the album, inspired by Tuomas' favorite writer Walt Whitman - Song of MS is a poem by Whitman from 1855. The phrase "all the great heart lying still" is a quote from the 1802 sonnet written by W.Wordsworth. Covington Woods is from the movie The Village. Princes and her Panther is a fairy tale by W. Orr and L. Stringer. WhenTuomas say "Territories" it's a reference to Stephen King's book The Talisman. The song ends with the phrase "...from G to Em", which means Gem, the main character of the movie Imaginaerum. It is divided into four chapters: "From a Dusty Bookshelf", "All That Great Heart Lying Still", "Piano Black" and "Love", being the third longest track in the band's discography, only (13'29"). fourteen seconds shorter than "The Poet and the Pendulum" from the previous album.

[@outlaw71]

😂😂 "Drums made a comment about Jukka's wife hair" Just loved that comment 🤣🤣

[@deadfall8475]

i'd never seen this version reacted to before. The memorial to Anne, literally brought tears to my eyes. This was her favorite Nightwish song.

[@reeilona]

[@SYNtemp]

If you can spare the time, i recommend you look for any Nightwish reaction here on YT older than 2 years, and you can be 95% sure you find there Ann Waychoff's comment bellow it, and were often also many fans replying to her just "hallo Ann" and "how you're doing" and she allways takes care to answer every single one of them salutes, and it is soooo.... eh, better read yourselves, you will get it quick i promise...

[@leemarinus]

The mother of Nightwish Army. Gabriel honors her memory, by keeping her list alive for you to enjoy.

[@pekkakarppinen1608]

This great song is inspired by the poem by Walt Whitman. ⛄👍

[@shadokat]

Thank you for another great reaction Eric! As a relatively new member of the Nightwish Army (about 1.5 years at this point), I was not here when Ann Waychoff was. I've heard a lot about her and wish I'd found Nightwish before she departed this world. She sounds like a wonderful person. I was not aware of this version of the video, and I learned something new today. So thank you to the fans who recommended this version, and thank you, Eric, for choosing to react to it. I hope you're doing a bit better after your recent loss. Our furbabies are family, no matter what some unpleasant people may choose to believe. I look forward to your next Nightwish reaction; you have become one of my favorite reactors. I really enjoy the way you speak about them, and I respect your knowledge of the music industry. Thank you again. Be well!

[@jpsother1183]

Ann is beloved by the Army as their Nightwish Momma. She did the short history now carried on by Gabriel to all the new NW reactors, was an exceedingly lovely lady and is dearly missed. If there is a heaven, she is getting the harps to play versions of this song.

[@arihalttu8949]

R.I.P Ann....creator of Nightwish army and a friendly soul welcomming everyone to the Nightwish army....we will always love you Ann

[@alexandersteinmetz6857]

Rip Amy Waychoff, long may she rule, wherever she settled her Soul. had only some lines with her, but what an fascinating Human Soul even in this brief Conversation. *A midnight flight into Covington Woods A princess and a panther by my side These are Territories I live for I'd still give my everything to love you more* Opened by Marko, Sung by Floor, Music by Tuomas, Empuu and ok, best there is, period. Try to change my Mind. Always an deep joy, and an Slam into the STomach, this one. Its an Poem of the same Name, this Song is build around and about. Rest can be explained better by many of the Army. Bet your Knowledge is Great already as many Times before considering your open Dialogue. Stay Healthy. NW Bavaria out.

[@corneliusantonius3108]

❤

[@billtbodger]

the last part (the spoken words) always has me in tears, Troy has such a powerful yet gentle spoken voice as does Johanna along with others who read short parts. This song is such a powerful journey, thank you for playing the extended (full) version as I feel many a casual listener will have never heard part 4 and the beauty of the spoken word

[@nathanpelosi4086]

Welcome back brother!

[@timchambers8230]

Fantastic once more Eric, - I’m really looking forward to watching the Poet and the Pendulum with you soon. It’s such a beautiful journey……

[@marcel021065]

My Friend keep the train rolling i love everithing you react to, but youre reactions on NightWish are the best out there, i love this and hope we wil enjoy you for years to come

[@wimv8219]

Nice reaction. I’m always surprised how much you notice on a first listen! I had one critical note, it's in the end, because its minor. When you mentioned these line, it hits home: “sometimes you forget to take a step back and say “Am I ok”, “Am I being the person I know I am able to be”, “Am I being the human I’m capable of being” - instead of being caught up in everything else. In personal life I recently had to deal with professional and personal challenges, family tragedies , while being hit by a car on my bike, while my wife was in the hospital for months, taking care of our two boys all at the same time. It really throw me back and made me realize that I had to not forget myself. I found that listening to “this kind of music “ really had a positive effect on how I was dealing with it all. Another song that really grew exponentially on me was a song I already recommended earlier to you on your review of Epica, namely Anathema and the life performance of “A simple mistake” (Universal Concert July 2013). Link was in the post. searched and found life inside, we're not just a moment in time... ..(time)..could be the answer, take a chance lose it all it's a simple mistake to make to create love and to fall so rise and be your master you don't need to be a slave of memory ensnared in a web, in a cage. Anathema is barely reacted to. Currently they are on a indefinitely hiatus due to Covid (they barely could life from their music income), I sincerely think their work should get more exposure. Hopefully they will return. I’m curious if you know them, and hope you react to them. Greetings. p.s. the critical note was this: I find it a little disappointing however that you clicked several times to check how long the poem(s) would go on. It distracted the viewing pleasure. Although I get it! When I first saw this version without knowing the real background I was also tempted to see how long the Poem goes on. But in the end, after re-watching, I caught myself absorbing all the lines with no eye on time.

[@Rackelhane]

Thank you!!

[@TomTomson81]

Once again made a great video. I love your monologues and your knowledge.

[@karljensen6768]

YOHOOO I Was the first in Denmark,at least 😄😄🇩🇰 I hope you can see light of the end of the tunnel 🤗🤗🥰🥰

[@NeeceLoneWolf]

RIP Ann. I will always be grateful that you guided me towards Sonata Arctica telling me about Tony and Tuomas hiking and suggested I check them out which I did.

[@reeilona]

What is your favorite song from Sonata Arctica? Mine is My Selene, so amazing song

[@bloodybutunbowed291]

I absolutely love Jukka's ride cymbal work in this song, especially from 11:22 - 11:27 . So tasteful, and only done once through the whole song.

[@AleksandarGospic]

'It's like a drums owe him money, it's like they made a comment about Jukka's wife's hair'' 😂😂😂👌 yeah, Jukka was unique ❤ great reaction and breakdown of this legendary song, finally! 🍻 Glad you picked the extended video version cause that last amazing poetic part of the song is not done live so most reactors don't hear it, love it so much 😍

[@Lahnapylly]

You have such insightful commentary, that it's just not possible to not subscribe.

[@reeilona]

Jep, Erics channel is the best in this "reaction-scene" thing. So intelligent and insightful as you said

[@mailen5187]

This song features a multi-minute poetry section at the end. Each member of the band was allowed to ask three people who were important to them to recutter the poem. One of the people is singer Johanna Kurkela (Tuomas’ wife). Working with Tuomas was not new for Johanna as Tuomas wrote a song for Johanna’s Album ’Hyvästi Dolores Haze in 2010 ”Satojen Merien Näkijä” (link below) kzbin.info/www/bejne/omG4d6WVZc-Be7c Thanks a lot again for your great reaction, pls keep reacting Nightwish 🙏🤘

[@johannessilver8653]

Yes...he is a genius for sure. Love Jukka in this with his awesome drumming and performance.

[@nicod1361]

actually there is no extended version from Nightwish ,it's a fan made add on for a sweet & humble lady a YT NW ambassador Ann W. who was very dedicated to NW circa 2013 ,the poem done by NW was never done live

[@Kakingapup]

Super powerful song lyrics and music to match. Tuonas is a singularity in the world of music.

[@JWNanaimo]

They were super fortunate to be blessed with both Jukka and Kai…two phenomenal drummers who melded so perfectly with this phenomenal band. Jukka in Beast Mode in this one🤘🤘

[@kimmikke_]

Again, you get it, you find it, you understand it and you feel it - and then explain it to us all so that we all have a chance to also get it. You are simply the Best, nuff said ✌🤘🙏

[@bobgross8761]

The 'coda' is straight off the studio album and it is so moving. I had to stop what I was doing when I heard it for the first time. For the record, the entire Imaginaerum album is a masterpiece. Also, as you've likely found out, this performance immediately followed Ghost Love Score in the Wacken setlist. Imagine being there in person to experience that! I can't say enough about this amazing band. Thanks for another great reaction, Eric!

[@Thorgrim247]

No worries. The extended version is a fan made addition. It is obvious why Nightwish did not include this part in the live show. The ending part "Love" is inspired by the Whitman poem. Ann Waychoff was the Grand Dame of the Nightwish Army. This was her favorite song. She passed away after a long fight with her medical condition. She was a wonderful lady and a passionate music lover. R.I.P. Ann! 🙏🙏🙏 Gabriel Bardac carries the torch for Ann. Thank you Gabriel for your passion and ongoing effort to lead the charge! 🤘

[@kimfabritiusdetengnagel2038]

I don't have anything to add - I also talked with Ann on YT and mail - and her knowledge of Nightwish were remarkable - just as her insight of fans and trolls. She had a way with words, that got through to everyone. RIP Ann 🌹. **** And your reaction 👍 - all Nightwish songs are a journey. I am glad we didn't scare you away, from your first one - I think Nightwish are giving you something. Greetings from Nightwish Army Denmark 🇩🇰 👍 💪 🤘 🤘

[@villainouschrisk]

i didn't know there Was an "extended version". it's just pure epic awesomeness. you know it's going to be awesome when the drummer Stands Up to start the song. Floor and Marko together. Fahgetaboutit. this was right after "Ghost Love Score", song 12 out of 13 in a 90 minute set. started at 10:30 at night on the "True Metal" Stage. Alice Cooper had played right before them on the "Black Metal" Stage. NW Army calls Tuomas Metal Mozart for a reason. Emppu using the reverb from the speaker to sneak in a sip of beer is Classic.

[@leightonwilson3960]

This is one of my favourite songs from Nightwish. Great reaction, thank you! I didn't get to interact with Ann Waychoff, she had died shortly before I discovered this, my favourite band. I've noticed this community, the Nightwish Army, has kept her memory alive. If ever there was a song that might be considered as sacred by the Army, this would be it, because of her.

[@RC2214]

I always feel that Nightwish music compilations can be used in movie scores, theatrical indeed

[@michaelbeecher5958]

Outstanding commentary on an excellent song. Many thanks for your attention to detail. There is so much more to see and hear. It's there for you to enjoy. Looking forward to the next one.

[@jarkkoriikonen90]

Ooo, Eric, I love how well you pronounce Tuomas, Jukka and all of them, just perfect! And them, how you described Jukka's druming as event at Oscars... just so spot on. I hear Tuomas is writing new NW record. I wonder will it be darker again, because of the situation in Ukraine. Could also be the opposite , you never know, it is like box of chocolates..

[@Mrjobe_]

I'm really glad you did this extended version. I've never seen it before.. God damn it's beautiful...

[@JoeBizzle]

Any chance you could do "Rest Calm"? It's not in the standard Nightwish reactor rotation, but I think you'd love it.

[@helky8]

Good one! 👍

[@naphackDT]

I concur.

[@laudatosiadastra1218]

I concur.

[@chrisgoldston9755]

Concur

[@badsiony]

I concur :)

[@kezca]

For Anne R.I.P Thankyou sir. love this song. Another great reaction.

[@arnaldotanta3630]

For Ann, R.I.P dear ,we miss you 🤘🤘

[@Donna-C]

There is no “mainstream” from Nightwish because it’s from Tuomas Holopainen - ALWAYS unique in every way! The extended version (poetry) was spoken by band members, crew, family. There isn’t a “label” / definition for Nightwish - every song is heartfelt, passionate & special. This song has a little bit of everything. 24:07 onwards - Our time & place in this world is a common theme throughout Nightwish songs - with The Greatest Show on Earth (Tampere version) summarising it all. Still listen to a few more NW songs before that one. You will enjoy it even more!

[@larryd4352]

Thank you for your insightful comments! I always learn something from you!

[@jimmybumgardner8322]

Great reaction, Great song. One of the first songs I listen to 7 years ago, and I can't get enough. Everything about this band is special, and there's not enough words to explain this band. And the Talent each and every one of them have.

[@themajor743]

I love this song and your reaction did it justice - nice work sir!

[@tonycarroll7925]

Top drawer reaction to another amazing song. Thank you Eric

[@Ovrkyl]

This song has more meaning if you've watched the movie (yes, Nightwish made a movie) "Imaginaerum". The Song of Myself is the defining end to the movie.

[@flemminglinnebjergrasmusse4338]

Another wonderful reaction. Thank you. I love how you almost label it a mainstream song - and then Toumas goes ahead a turns the breakdown into a whole new section of the song. Slower, heavier - but with that seamless transition. It really does take you on a journey where you almost forgot how it all startet when you arrive at the end. I really can't wrap my head around how brilliant Toumas is and how well everything comes together with these wonderful musicians. There's something about that, for me at least, that transcends what a rockband usually is and does. Look at us: People from Nashville, Finland, Romania and everywhere else bonding over this. ❤ from Denmark.

[@tomletlow1258]

Wow. The end/extended part, I have heard. But could not tell you where. I have never seen this version. I am glad you chose it. Been going through a lot lately. Including loosing my wife of 26 years who in her own way saved my life from 20 years of hard core drug addiction. Heard the song many times and love it. But that ending has me in tears and gave me the warm loving hug I wasn't able to get before she passed.

[@TheWyldesidewithEricClark]

I hope you find peace. I wish I had answers, but I don't. My wife was my biggest fan, and it took me years to even think about a microphone again. Somehow, we find the fortitude to forge a new path, as heartbroken the cobblestones may be. At least we have an awesome soundtrack. Cheers! Eric

[@tomletlow1258]

@@TheWyldesidewithEricClark That you. It's definitely a roller coaster ride. I freaked out at work a couple days ago. But my superintendent who usually doesn't know how to take me. (Because I'm a big harry. physically imposing individual) Took a moment to walk me through my moment and tell me to breathe. And help me through the moment. I usually just roll with whatever comes my way. But I'm getting back on track. Thank you for your comment.

[@TheWyldesidewithEricClark]

@@tomletlow1258 I've learned to take a second and ask, "Am I getting ready to yell at this old lady because she's a twat, or because I have other stuff going on and she just happens to be here?"...Usually the latter. And I understand, I'm a 6ft 1 fit former Army guy with an Irish temper. Plus I grew up in a very bad place, so I always appear to be "alert" or as my buddy says, "Can pop at any moment". In reality, I'm super chill and work to avoid conflict. Eric

[@tomletlow1258]

@@TheWyldesidewithEricClark 😁 I can relate. I'm a 6' 295 lb of viking ansestry. And it is quite obvious. Also have had a bit of a rough life growing up. I'm also very laid back. When I do have a moment it usually scares the hell out of everyone. Which it did the other morning. Music is one of the things that helps me. I've got this. Thank you for your reply. I wish you the best in the roller coaster of life. Enjoy your reactions. Speaking of which. There are still two of trinity of Night Wish songs for you to get to. Poet and the Pendulum of course. And then Master Passion Greed. Which was said would never be performed live. It's hard and heavy. In my opinion it's them getting it out of their system so they can move on. You will hear pieces of it in songs all the way to the newest album. P.S. Bye Bye Beautiful is part of the trinity I spoke of. Just to be clear.

[@edwardscott482]

As always, love your perspective and what you bring to the "reaction" table. Just another reminder that the masterpiece Poet and the Pendulum is still on "the handy dandy notebook list" 😂 Much love from DFW

[@kevinbrookover546]

Also, a huge shoutout to Gabriel he's doing a magnificent job taking over for Ann, she would be proud!

[@gene6690]

Once again such a great analysis of this great song. This is such a complex song. But oh so amazing. 💥💥💥💥

[@HansS11160]

One of their best songs and well analyzed!

[@martinehermans6661]

" It's as if the drums own him money......" I've been trying to find the words to describe the intensity ofJukka, I hope you wont't mind me stealing yours, I will quote though :-)

[@oolillemyoo4099]

Yaaayyy, finally you did it! I might have asked for this a time or two… *or maybe a bit more*. I love this song so much! From the way they just decided to change a breakdown into a verse, to the lyrics, such as “sometimes the heart is piano black” - it’s just brilliant

[@TheWyldesidewithEricClark]

I did see it! And I thank you for your kind words and I understand completely. Cheers from Nashville!! Eric

[@nicod1361]

@@TheWyldesidewithEricClark hey Eric, re: your Amaranth reaction/analysis, how your sentiments,insights and evaluation of this band have so precisely in such a short time echoed those of us who have been listening ,watch & admiring both NW & Floor for many yrs is simply a standing applause , bravo ! I would just add to your description the term "Beautiful Metal" which in my mind there is no other band that aptly deserves such a description and genre. All the best to you. btw when you get to Bless The Child from Wacken ,you should know that is Floor's 2nd favorite NW song to perform.

[@lujalainen1]

great to see another nighwish reaction and thanx to great reaction and analyze. have wonderful day there.

[@frankramakers]

I love this song. I get emotional during the reading of the poem afterwards. I loved your reacton.

[@mattihelin5101]

Beautiful. Especially that last four - three minutes of yours.

[@D-ragon-S]

No facts from me.. Only THANKS!!! It's a ride to watch your journey. I love it! Much Love to you and Ukraine 🌻🌻🌻💙💛💙