Ayreon Archives - Cryptic Rock

Marko Hietala - Roses From The Deep album art

Marko Hietala – Roses From The Deep (Album Review)

CrypticRockCrypticRockFebruary 2, 2025

To be upfront, it was a bit of a surprise when the news became public in early 2021 that Marko Hietala left his position in the international superstar Metal band Nightwish. Taking over the position as their bassist and male vocalist, Hietala became a signature ... Read More

Simone Simons – Vermillion (Album Review)

CrypticRockCrypticRockAugust 23, 2024

When a member of a well-known band branches off as a solo artist there is always a ton of intrigue. Striking the curiosity of dedicated followers, a couple of questions that may arise are – will the direction be different, and what does this mean ... Read More

Praying Mantis – Defiance (Album Review)

CrypticRockCrypticRockApril 27, 2024

One of the earliest entries in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement, Praying Mantis is a band which perhaps the more casual fan does not recognize, but certainly should. Initially going by Junction, and forming in 1973, soon becoming Praying Mantis they would ... Read More

Floor Jansen – Paragon (Album Review)

CrypticRockCrypticRockOctober 17, 2023

The name Floor Jansen is one that has been known and respected among many underground Metal fans for over two decades. Initially the vocalist for Gothic Metal band After Forever, she would also work with the Progressive Metal act Star One, form the band ReVamp ... Read More

Interview – Marko Hietala of Nightwish

CrypticRockCrypticRockJune 1, 2020

Like any band, Nightwish has a story to tell. Full of ups, downs, frustrations, and triumphs, in reality, few can tell a tale quite like these Fins. Coming at a crossroads at the peak of their success, they made a bold decision yet landed on ... Read More

Marko Hietala – Pyre Of The Black Heart (Album Review)

Dara PattersonDara PattersonJanuary 24, 2020

While being best known for his work as bassist and vocalist of Nightwish, there is much more to Marko Hietala than meets the eye. A multi-talented musician and songwriter, at long last, he is set to deliver his debut solo album, Pyre Of The Black Heart, ... Read More

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Marko Hietala – Roses From The Deep (Album Review)