Century Child

Released in 2002, Century Child is the fourth studio album by Nightwish and represents a pivotal evolution in the symphonic metal genre. It is the first album to feature bassist and vocalist Marco Hietala, whose presence fundamentally changed the band's dynamic by introducing a 'beauty and the beast' vocal contrast. Musically, the album saw the band move toward a darker, slower, and more atmospheric sound, departing from the speed-driven power metal of Wishmaster. A significant technical shift occurred with guitarist Emppu Vuorinen tuning to D-standard to match Hietala, resulting in a heavier, more modern metal tone. The album was recorded with the Joensuu City Orchestra and a choir, marking a step toward the full-scale cinematic productions of their later work. Critically, it is often cited as the band's most cohesive 'dark' album, blending gothic sensibilities with epic arrangements.