AURI

As the moonlight pierces through the stained glass windows of the Union Chapel with the stage illuminated by lanterns, Johanna Kurkela takes to the stage in a dazzling ballgown, opening the show with Those We Don’t Speak Of before the rest of Auri join her on this autumnal night.

- GRACE HAYHURST

Auri spun out of Nightwish members Tuomas Holopainen and Troy Donockley back in 2017 – best known for their keyboards and amalgamation of folk instruments respectively. Teaming up with Finnish singer Kurkela, they released their debut record, which showcased a soundscape of gothic folk with progressive qualities thanks to the dense instrumentation and thematic journeys of each piece.

This is their first-ever tour following the release of three albums, so Prog isn’t sure what to expect, but as more musicians gradually take to the stage, totalling six and building up a dramatic acoustic climax during The Space Between, we realise that we're in for a treat. Kurkela moves across the stage to pick up her electric violin and joins in with the acoustic instrumental backing, duetting with Donockley and his assortment of low whistles in various tunings – a staple instrument in celtic folk music. The arrangements are full of suspense with a lot of unresolved chords and minor seconds creating tension and drawing a solemn reaction from the crowd.