Published: June 2, 2026
Former Nightwish vocalist explores the Japanese phenomenon of Johatsu on the third single from ‘Frisson Noir’, due June 12 through earMUSIC
Tarja Turunen has released the official music video for “The Trace Outlives”, the third single from her upcoming studio album “Frisson Noir”, scheduled for release on June 12, 2026 through earMUSIC. The song offers another look at the album’s darker and more introspective side while maintaining the symphonic heaviness that has defined Tarja’s solo work for more than two decades.
Rockum previously covered the album announcement in Tarja Announces 'Frisson Noir,' Her Heaviest Album Featuring Dani Filth, Marko Hietala and Chad Smith. Tarja was also recently featured on Gino Alache’s Rockum Radio Show on CFRC 101.9 FM.
Inspired by the Japanese phenomenon known as Johatsu — people who voluntarily disappear from their lives and identities — “The Trace Outlives” explores themes of absence, reinvention, regret, freedom, and the invisible marks people leave behind even after they are gone.
A distinctive element of the song is the inclusion of the shamisen, a traditional Japanese instrument known for its percussive character. The instrument is performed by Sayo Komada, whose contribution adds an additional cultural and sonic dimension to the track.
Speaking about the recording, Tarja explained that she wanted to find a sound that would transport listeners to Japan and ultimately discovered the shamisen, whose unique character became an important part of the composition.
Released alongside the single, the official video presents a cinematic interpretation of the song's themes through a narrative built around longing, tension, emotional distance, and human connection. Rather than functioning as a simple performance clip, the video expands the atmosphere of the song through visual storytelling that mirrors the emotional weight of the lyrics.
According to the information released so far, “Frisson Noir” continues Tarja’s exploration of the space between classical music, cinematic orchestration, and modern metal. Throughout the album, orchestral arrangements, choirs, piano passages, and heavy guitar-driven sections are combined into a sound that remains closely associated with her solo identity.
The album also features several notable guest appearances, including:
Marko Hietala (ex-Nightwish)
Dani Filth (Cradle Of Filth)
Apocalyptica
Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers)
Sayo Komada
Mervi Myllyoja
Niklas Pokki
Julián Bedmar
Valter Freitas
The album was mixed by GRAMMY-winning producer Neal Avron, whose previous work includes recordings by Linkin Park, Skillet, and Disturbed.
FRISSON NOIR TRACKLIST
1. Frisson Noir
2. The Eternal Return
3. Leap Of Faith (feat. Marko Hietala)
4. At Sea (feat. Mervi Myllyoja & Niklas Pokki)
5. Blaze Forever
6. The Trace Outlives (feat. Sayo Komada)
7. Tango (feat. Apocalyptica)
8. Anemoia (feat. Julián Bedmar & Valter Freitas)
9. I Don't Care (feat. Dani Filth)
10. Against The Odds (feat. Chad Smith)
FORMATS
The album will be available in the following formats:
CD Digipak
Black 2LP Gatefold (180g)
Limited Purple 2LP Gatefold (180g)
The first pressing of all editions features copper foil finishing and logo embossing. Additional collector editions and signed versions will also be available through the official store.
TARJA — FRISSON LIVE TOUR 2026
September 30, 2026 — Berlin, Germany — Huxleys Neue Welt
October 1, 2026 — Hamburg, Germany — Markthalle
October 2, 2026 — Rostock, Germany — M.A.U. Club
October 4, 2026 — Dresden, Germany — Parkhotel Ballsaal
October 5, 2026 — Jena, Germany — F-Haus
October 6, 2026 — Munich, Germany — Backstage Werk
October 8, 2026 — Innsbruck, Austria — Music Hall
October 9, 2026 — Pratteln, Switzerland — Z7
October 11, 2026 — Lindau, Germany — Club Vaudeville
October 12, 2026 — Cologne, Germany — Essigfabrik
October 13, 2026 — Frankfurt, Germany — Batschkapp
October 15, 2026 — Osnabrück, Germany — Hyde Park
October 16, 2026 — Gersthofen, Germany — Stadthalle
October 17, 2026 — Vienna, Austria — Szene
Since launching her solo career following her departure from Nightwish, Tarja has built one of the most successful and enduring catalogs in symphonic metal. Across multiple studio albums, international tours, and collaborations, she has remained one of the genre’s most recognizable voices while continuing to expand her musical palette through classical, rock, and metal influences.
With “The Trace Outlives,” Tarja offers another glimpse into the thematic and musical world of “Frisson Noir”, introducing Japanese cultural influences and deeply personal subject matter while continuing the symphonic metal approach that has defined her solo career for more than twenty years.
Written by Gino Alache – Music Journalist
Watch the official music video for “The Trace Outlives” below.
