In a rare and deeply heartfelt conversation, AURI — the ethereal trio formed by Tuomas Holopainen, Johanna Kurkela, and Troy Donockley — sat down with Metal on Tap ahead of the release of their long-awaited third album, III – Candles & Beginnings, out August 15 via Nuclear Blast.
Known for their cinematic fusion of folk, progressive, and symphonic elements, AURI has always felt like a musical escape hatch — a dreamscape in sonic form. And for the first time ever, AURI will bring that world to the live stage, embarking on their debut European tour before hitting festivals in 2026.
For Tuomas Holopainen, the magic of AURI lies in its unfiltered spontaneity. “We don’t plan anything. The songs just appear — like magic. We’re just there to receive them.” It’s a sentiment echoed by vocalist Johanna Kurkela, whose hauntingly beautiful performance serves as the emotional centre of the band. “When we create, it feels sacred. We’re not chasing perfection — we’re following feeling.”
During the chat, Troy Donockley reflected on the band’s lack of pressure. “We’ve got nothing to prove. There’s no ego here. Just music, and a lot of love.” Donockley also shared details about their upcoming live shows, including a six-piece band that will feature Nightwish drummer Kai Hahto and close friends Johanna Iivanainen and Mikko Iivanainen.
As AURI steps from the studio into the spotlight, the band remains committed to creating music that uplifts rather than overwhelms. “We want people to come out of this album full of light and optimism,” said Johanna Kurkela, smiling. “In a world so full of fear, this is our way of offering something else — something beautiful.”
The interview also touched on the lush visual storytelling behind the Shieldmaiden video, the unpredictable process of building a live setlist, and the unexpected joy of writing an album described by one listener as “the sound of high fantasy.”
With Candles & Beginnings, AURI has truly arrived — and not just in the studio. For the first time in their journey, AURI is ready to share their universe face-to-face with fans across the world.
Whether it’s through the keys of Tuomas Holopainen, the pipes and strings of Troy Donockley, or the unmistakable voice of Johanna Kurkela, AURI continues to remind us that magic is real — and it sounds absolutely beautiful.
📅 III – Candles & Beginnings releases August 15, 2025 via Nuclear Blast Records
Watch the video for ‘Museum Of Childhood’ here: https://youtu.be/6HBF4KfMKsw
Listen to ‘Museum Of Childhood’ here: https://auri.bfan.link/museum-of-childhood
Pre-order the album here: https://auri.bfan.link/iii-candles-beginnings
The album comes in following formats:
CD Jewelcase, 20-page booklet
CD Earbook, 36-pages booklet – limited edition!
2 LP Gold, 16-page booklet
2 LP Green/White/Dark Green Splatter, 16-page booklet
Line-up:
Johanna Kurkela | voices, violin, viola, keys
Tuomas Holopainen | keys & backing voices
Troy Donockley | guitars, bouzouki, mandola, uilleann pipes, low whistles, aerophone, bodhran, keys, voices
AURI online:
