Auri

Auri is a Finnish band that blends cinematic folk, ethereal prog, and atmospheric rock into something truly unique and immersive. Formed in 2017, the group includes Tuomas Holopainen (keyboardist and primary songwriter of Nightwish), his wife Johanna Kurkela (vocals), and Nightwish multi-instrumentalist Troy Donockley (known for his work with uilleann pipes and other traditional instruments). The three longtime friends created Auri as a creative outlet outside of their main musical projects, with a focus on evocative, emotional storytelling and lush, expansive soundscapes.

Their self-titled debut album, Auri, arrived in 2018 and was followed by their sophomore release, II – Those We Don’t Speak Of, in 2021. In 2024, they released III – Candles & Beginnings, continuing their tradition of crafting dreamy, introspective music that transports listeners to a mythical realm. Auri’s music is a blend of folk, Celtic, ambient, and progressive influences, built around Kurkela’s delicate vocals, Donockley’s array of traditional instruments, and Holopainen’s cinematic arrangements. It’s music made for dreamers, imaginative and deeply atmospheric.

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