One of the most beloved female vocalists Tarja Turunen has chosen to delight her fans with the rather unexpected album “From Spirits And Ghosts (Score For A Dark Christmas)” focusing on a dark interpretation of Christmas classic songs and dedicating this album to those who might not be able to enjoy the festive bliss.
As all the other songs on this album “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” is structured like a movie score where Tarja’s elegant operatic vocal delivery becomes the luminous center around which ethereal atmospheric orchestrations gradually build darkened intensity ultimately leading to a triumphant classical climax.
Being the only brand new original song “Together” is a treat for the fans. Here Tarja follows the chosen atmospheric symphonic pathway of the whole album delivering an exquisitely emotional vocal performance while the dreamy piano melodies and the inspired orchestral layers evoke the eternal struggle between light and darkness.
“Pie Jesu” might sound less dark but Tarja’s voice becomes particularly spellbinding with impressive clarity and prowess through delicate symphonic layers and minimalist instrumentation.
“Amazing Grace” becomes even more atmospheric with gentle soothing layers on which Tarja lays majestic operatic style vocals while towards the end the orchestra acquires bolder cinematic intensity resulting in a grand classical finale.
“O Tannebaum” feels like a dark lullaby where shadows and subtle sounds can become suddenly spooky as Tarja’s compelling eclectic voice leads the listeners through a gloomy fairytale at times surrounded by particularly grandiose orchestrations.
The very common carol “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” becomes definitely more pleasant as Tarja’s vocals feel rather enchanting gracefully floating through somber electro/atmospheric layers.
If you thought that Christmas songs are boring “From Spirits And Ghosts (Score For A Dark Christmas)” might change your mind as with her mesmerizing performance and lavish symphonic arrangements Tarja successfully re-invents these popular classic carols.