A History of Tarot — MetalStorm

Formation and Early Years (1981–1986)

Tarot, a pioneering heavy metal band from Finland, emerged onto the scene in the early 1980s. With their raw energy and powerful sound, they quickly gained a loyal following in their home country. It was during this time that they released their iconic album Spell of Iron in 1986, featuring the unforgettable track 'Wings of Darkness.'

Despite their underground popularity in Finland, Tarot remained relatively unknown on the global metal scene. However, their fortunes would soon change with the addition of Marko Hietala, who would go on to become a key member of the band and later achieve worldwide fame with Nightwish.

Resurgence and Re-recording (2002–2011)

In 2002, Tarot experienced a resurgence in popularity as Marko Hietala joined Nightwish, bringing newfound attention to his roots in Tarot. This renewed interest led the band to re-record their classic album Spell of Iron in 2011, marking its 25th anniversary with a fresh perspective and a global audience.

The re-recorded version of Spell of Iron allowed fans old and new to appreciate Tarot's timeless music and solidified their place in the annals of heavy metal history. The band's powerful sound and enduring legacy continued to resonate with metal enthusiasts around the world.

Tarot's impact on the Finnish metal scene and their ability to captivate audiences with their electrifying music have solidified their place as legends in the genre. Despite their humble beginnings, Tarot's influence continues to inspire generations of metal fans and musicians alike.