Tarja Turunen has released the official music video for her powerful new single “The Trace Outlives,” the third track from her upcoming studio album Frisson Noir, due June 12.
Watch the official video here:
“The Trace Outlives” offers a more introspective and emotionally charged side of Frisson Noir, while maintaining the signature heaviness and symphonic grandeur that define Tarja’s solo work. The single explores the Japanese phenomenon of “Johatsu”—people who deliberately disappear from their lives—using it as a lens to reflect on identity, absence, regret, and emotional liberation.
The track also features the sound of the shamisen, a traditional Japanese instrument, performed by young talent Sayo Komada, adding a distinct percussive and atmospheric layer to the composition.
Tarja comments on the collaboration:
“I was looking for a sound that would take me to Japan and found a beautiful ancient instrument that resembles a guitar, but has a more percussive sound — the shamisen… I invited the young talent Sayo Komada to blend her art with my song.”
Musically, “The Trace Outlives” blends crushing heaviness, orchestral arrangements, and operatic vocals, reinforcing Tarja’s reputation for combining classical influence with modern metal intensity.
Frisson Noir continues Tarja’s exploration of cinematic orchestration and emotional storytelling, weaving together themes of fear, beauty, nostalgia, identity, transformation, and resilience. The album features collaborations with artists including Dani Filth, Apocalyptica, Marko Hietala, and Chad Smith, and is mixed by GRAMMY-winning producer Neal Avron.
Frisson Noir will be released on June 12 and will be available in multiple formats, including CD, vinyl editions, and a limited collector’s box set. Pre-order now
Following the release, Tarja will embark on the International Frisson Live Tour 2026, beginning September 30 in Berlin, with additional dates to be announced.