STRATOVARIUS Mainman Announces Second Vocalist For New Solo Album

After choosing classically trained American coloratura soprano Jennifer Sowle to sing the leading character in his "classic rock opera," STRATOVARIUS guitarist/mainman Timo Tolkki has chosen the second singer for his third solo album. He is Heikki Pöyhiä from Finnish band TWILIGHTNING.

"I got to know Heikki when I mixed their debut album and I really loved his versatile vocals immediately," says Tolkki. "I also saw him live and he was just as good. He has a very powerful voice, but he can also sing very softly when needed, and his character, like all the characters on this album, is very challenging for the singer, since they each portray a lot of different human feelings".

Tolkki continues: "This project will challenge the form and content of 'rock opera.' My aim has been to create something totally new and yet maintain the best parts from traditional rock opera and opera. I did not want to just compose 10 songs, come up with some quick story and invite seven famous metal singers and call that a 'rock opera.' I have spent a lot of time choosing the vocalists and that has been a very difficult job, because each and every one of them is unique, although they are not big names. The whole concept is quite unique… more about that later."

"Saana - Warrior of Light" will be released late 2007/early 2008 and will contain an exclusive bonus DVD with videos, interviews and lot of extras.

Timo Tolkki is still searching for vocalists for both "Saana" and for other projects his production company Goldenworks is preparing. Anything from opera to pop to whatever is welcomed. If you are interested and you think you've got what it takes, then send two MP3s, two photos (including one full-body shot) and a little bio about yourself to: goldenworks@elisanet.fi.