After years of defining the symphonic metal genre with her unique voice and artistry, Tarja Turunen has delivered a live album that captures the raw emotion and power of her musical journey. Circus Life, recorded in January 2020 in Bucharest, Romania, is a breathtaking, 100% live performance that spans Tarja’s solo career with fresh arrangements of fan favorites like “I Walk Alone,” “Until My Last Breath,” and “Innocence.”
In an exclusive interview with Metal on Tap, Tarja reflected on reconnecting with Marko, and the meaningful impact it had on both her personal life and her music. The two had been distant for years, but when they finally reconnected, it was a pivotal moment in both of their lives.
“We hadn’t talked in a long time, but after we did reconnect, it felt like everything fell back into place. He has always been an important person in my life and career. Our conversation was like coming home, and it opened up a lot of things that I had kept inside for years.”
This emotional reunion was especially significant as the two shared a connection that went beyond music. They even discussed collaborating on Phantom of the Opera, a moment that reignited a spark of creative collaboration that had been dormant for years. Marko’s friendship and understanding helped Tarja push through personal barriers that ultimately led to her decision to perform such a raw, no-holds-barred live album like Circus Life.
The Power of Live Music
Recorded in the round, the Circus Life concert was a one-of-a-kind experience for Tarja’s fans, with the stage set to allow the audience to feel intimately connected to the performance. The setlist spans her entire solo career, featuring her greatest hits like “I Walk Alone,” “Until My Last Breath,” and “Demons In You,” as well as fan favourites. Each song was re-arranged specifically for this live performance, bringing new life to tracks that longtime fans know by heart.
With 16 accomplished musicians accompanying her, including her brother Toni Turunen, the orchestra-style ensemble delivered a sound that was as grand as it was intimate. The performance was powerful, showcasing not just Tarja’s technical skill but her passion and commitment to her art.
“I wanted to create something that could connect with everyone. A performance that was stripped of all the excess, and just raw, emotional music.”
100% Live – No Tricks, No Edits
One of the defining features of Circus Life is its authenticity. The album was recorded live in one take – no overdubs, no studio tricks, just pure, unfiltered music.
“There’s something incredibly freeing about recording like that. It’s real. You can hear the emotion, the imperfections – and that’s what makes it special.”
This commitment to a no-frills, live sound is what makes Circus Life stand out. It’s a celebration of Tarja’s voice and her music, a reflection of her career, and a testament to the powerful connection she shares with her audience.
Available Now in Exclusive Formats
Originally a bonus feature in the Best Of: Living The Dream box set, Circus Life is now available as a standalone release. Fans can experience the full two-hour performance on:
- Ltd. 2CD + Blu-ray Digipak – featuring the live show on both audio and video
- Ltd. 3LP Black Vinyl Gatefold – including an LP-sized booklet and Blu-ray
🎪 Pre-order now: https://tarja.lnk.to/CircusLifePR
🎤 Tarja’s Evolution: A Concert of Heart and Soul
More than just a live performance, Circus Life is a reflection of Tarja’s journey – both as an artist and as a person. Through reconnecting with Marko, performing in front of a live audience, and confronting her past, Tarja has created something truly unforgettable.
“This concert was not just for the fans, but for me too. It was a moment to reflect, to embrace the past, and to step into the future with my heart fully open.”
