When two seemingly parallel worlds—metal music and a symphony orchestra—collide, a rarely heard soundscape is born. This remarkable ensemble is known as Bright & Black, driven by the creative force of Eicca Toppinen from Apocalyptica and our esteemed conductor Kristjan Järvi. Last year, this groundbreaking group made their debut on stage, stunning the Estonian audience. Now, you have the chance to witness this one-of-a-kind musical experience again as Bright & Black takes the stage on May 16, 2025, at the Alexela Concert Hall.
"Kristjan Järvi has been captivating audiences all over Europe with their innovative and refreshing approach to orchestral music for years," Kroonika raved about last year's concert. "An orchestra that performs without sheet music and standing, feels incredibly dynamic and organic, delivering a unique experience. Together with Eicca Toppinen, renowned from the world-famous quartet Apocalyptica, Bright & Black provided an unparalleled experience for both classical music lovers and heavy metal fans."
Bright & Black brings a new canvas to the forefront, allowing respected metal scene creators to explore new musical realms with a symphony orchestra. Alongside Toppinen and Järvi, other well-known names grace the stage: Fredrik Åkesson (Opeth), Erik Danielsson (Watain), Nico Elgstrand (Entombed AD), Lizzie Zackrisson (Houses and Gardens), and producer Jacob Hellner.
"Working with Bright & Black has been a real adventure for me," says Eicca Toppinen. "When Jacob asked me to join years ago, I had no idea what my role would be in the project. It has been a constant evolution, and at some point, I found myself stepping into the role of soloist."
"Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine we'd end up where we did with Bright & Black," says Jacob Hellner. "It all started with a simple idea: what if we combined an orchestra with the metal world? But it has become one of the most intense adventures of my career! It took longer than we ever expected, and it has challenged us on many levels—but wow, I'm incredibly proud of where we've landed. Bright & Black has so far been an extraordinary adventure beyond my wildest imagination. I’m very happy that we’re able to bring it back on the road again!”
Bright & Black defies boundaries, pushing artists to explore uncharted creative directions. Music can be magical, and that magic is most powerful when experienced live. Kristjan Järvi and the Nordic Pulse Orchestra have been wowing European audiences for years with their fresh, organic approach—no sheet music, no sitting! Add Eicca Toppinen as the Bright & Black soloist, and the result is sure to offer something entirely outside the norm, thrilling both orchestral and metal music fans alike.
Along with the announcement of the Live 2025 tour, Bright & Black are releasing a live track and music video for “And Flesh and Blood”, captured during their acclaimed show in Tallinn.
Watch “And Flesh and Blood” here:
The Bright & Black concert takes place at the Alexela Concert Hall in Tallinn on May 16, 2025. Live Nation Concert Club members can purchase tickets starting October 22 at 10 a.m. Public sales begin on October 23 at 5 p.m. through Piletilevi's website and sales points.