Tarja’s Frisson Noir

Frisson Noir by symphonic metal queen Tarja is out now through earMUSIC, and has been described as an “ongoing dialogue between cinematic orchestration, classical heritage, and the power and intensity of contemporary metal.”

Featuring guest appearances from fellow former Nightwish member Marko Hietala, Cradle Of Filth‘s Dani Filth, Apocalyptica, and Red Hot Chili Peppers‘ Chad Smith, it was mixed by GRAMMY-nominated producer Neal Avron (Linkin Park, Skillet, Disturbed).

Three singles have now been released from the long player, the latest ‘The Trace Outlives’, offering a glimpse into a more introspective and emotional side.

Inspired by the Japanese phenomenon of Johatsu, people who deliberately disappear from their lives, ‘The Trace Outlives’ explores the emotional weight of leaving one’s identity behind to start anew in anonymity, while reflecting on regret, freedom, and the invisible marks that remain even in absence. Rooted in this concept, the song also incorporates the sound of the shamisen, a traditional Japanese instrument that resembles a guitar but carries a far more percussive character, as Tarja explained:

“I was looking for a sound that would take me to Japan and found a beautiful ancient instrument that resembles a guitar, but has a more percussive sound, the shamisen, traditionally used in puppet theatres. I invited the young talent Sayo Komada to blend her art with my song.”

The official music video, released alongside the single, brings the song’s atmosphere vividly to life through a cinematic visual language, unfolding like a love story shaped by tension, longing, and emotional depth. With its carefully developed narrative and striking imagery, it translates the track’s intensity into a powerful on-screen experience, merging performance and storytelling into a compelling and immersive whole.

‘I Don’t Care’ was the second single released, an uncompromisingly heavy track featuring Dani Filth as a guest. Intended to stand out as a fierce declaration of independence, it rejects imposed expectations and confronts the illusions society creates around morality, belief and success.

“I always believed in my dreams, and I have never allowed anyone to direct my life choices,” said Tarja. “I don’t necessarily fit in, but I don’t care. I have always admired how Dani has created a brand and image for his band Cradle Of Filth, and for himself, that stand out from the rest. I truly believe he is perfect for this song, where I praise individualism and simply don’t give a shit about what others have to say.”

The official music video captures this clash of worlds visually, bringing both artists together on screen and translating the song’s dark energy into a powerful, performance-driven setting.

For more on Tarja and the first Frisson Noir single, ‘At Sea’, check out our earlier coverage.

Frisson Noir is available in different formats.