Band: Stratovarius

Stratovarius is one of Finland's longest-established metal bands with a history stretching back to a band called Black Water in the early 80s. At first the band played metal influenced by the likes of Black Sabbath but classical influences crept into the sound by way of original founding guitarist Staffan Stråhlman. By the time of their first album, none of the original members were left in the band and Tolkki had become the main creative element, a role he has maintained to the present day. By the early 90s they had developed their epic power metal style, along similar lines to that of German bands like Gamma Ray and Blind Guardian with Tolkki's virtuoso guitar-playing a highlight. At decade's end albums like Destiny and Infinite had established them as one of Europe's leading metal acts although later albums show significant signs of a band playing by numbers without seeking to further develop their style. In early 2004, Tolkki suffered a breakdown as a result of undiagnosed manic depression and fired Kotipelto and Michael, bringing Katriina "Miss K" Wiiala and journeyman drummer Anders Johansson into the band. However some weeks later it appears he changed his mind and Stratovarius was instead placed on ice. There has been speculation ever since (including an internet posting by Jens) that this entire episode, including an elaborate fake stabbing of Tolkki, was in fact an extended publicity stunt.  In January 2005, the band reconvened.

Tolki announced the band had split in April 2008, however, he has since signed over complete control of the group and its back catalogue to Kotipelto, Michael and Johansson.