NIGHTWISH Hits the Pause Button: A Hiatus with No End in Sight
In a riveting interview with Thomas Vogel from Germany's Sonic Seducer magazine, NIGHTWISH's powerful frontwoman Floor Jansen laid bare the band's current state: a hiatus that shows no signs of ending. After the release of their latest album, Yesterwynde, two years ago, the band has opted for a temporary retreat from the touring circuit. When pressed for any forthcoming plans, Jansen's response was stark: "No, there's nothing planned. That is the thing with NIGHTWISH — we're on a temporary hold. But there's no communication about when something's gonna happen."
The decision to step back wasn't taken lightly. In a previous conversation with Rock Hard Greece, multi-instrumentalist Troy Donockley emphasized the collaborative nature of the decision-making process. "We weren’t forced into the conclusion, but we were pointed in the direction of it quite early on, even before the pandemic," he explained. The risk of burnout loomed large, so the band collectively chose to hit pause. This hiatus is unique; it has no defined end, allowing the members to reclaim their personal balance and direction. "It hasn't been easy — there's been lots of personal problems — but we actually love being with each other. It's a rare thing for bands," Donockley elaborated.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding their future, Donockley hinted at a potential return for the band's 30th anniversary in 2027. "It's not terminal. It's an extended time off," he assured fans. However, the emotional toll of continuous touring can't be ignored, especially with families involved. Jansen recently welcomed her second child with SABATON drummer Hannes Van Dahl, showcasing the intertwining of personal and professional lives, which can complicate the demanding lifestyle of a rock star.
Meanwhile, the band continues to evolve. Jukka Koskinen from WINTERSUN was officially added as a member in August 2022, expanding the band's already impressive lineup. As Jansen gears up for her solo album Hytress, set for release on January 15, 2027, she also prepares for an extensive tour across Europe and South America. This suggests that while NIGHTWISH may be on hold, their members are far from idle.
As the metal world watches and waits, one can only ponder what the future holds for these Finnish titans. With a legacy as rich as their sound, NIGHTWISH's next chapter promises to be as epic as their previous offerings.