Former Nightwish Singer Tarja Turunen to Release ‘The Shadow Self’ Solo Album

Tarja Turunen is going back to back, following up last year's classical release, Ave Maria — En Plein Air, with The Shadow Self out Aug. 5 on earMUSIC. The album will be her fourth rock album since going solo and sixth overall studio effort under her own moniker.

After teasing fans over recent weeks with pieces of the new album, Tarja has revealed the disc's cover which depicts her clad in black and blending into the shadows on the background. "I am very excited to finally be able to share the first details of my new heavy rock album with all of you," the singer commented. "The Shadow Self is full of songs that are very dear to me. I cannot wait for you to hear the record that I believe is one of my heaviest albums to date. Keep your eyes open as there will be many surprises along the way to the album release on Aug. 5. I really mean it. Surprises will follow very soon."

The classical singer possesses one of the most revered voices in metal and rock, having sang with Nightwish on their first five albums, pioneering a style of power metal that has seen a wealth of similar acts enter the fold. After a public and messy split with the Finnish outfit, Tarja branched out on her own, netting two platinum albums in her native country with Henkäys Ikuisuudesta (a Christmas themed record) and Winter Storm.

Fans can expect to hear songs from The Shadow Self over the summer as the singer is set to take the stage at various festivals. Pre-orders and more information regarding upcoming date can be found at Tarja's website.

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