In what is perhaps the most unconventional and by far longest interview that I’ve ever conducted, I was recently given an opportunity to bring to light what I believe is the purest, the most honest heart of any musician I’ve ever spoken with. Former Stratovarius, and current Revolution Renaissance guitarist, Timo Tolkki reached out to me to share the latest happenings from within his world, as well as to clear up some dark past decisions. Entering into this conversation I really had no idea where it would lead and what to expect, but what I was given was a window into the soul of a man who is as loving and compassionate as they come. Being a heavy metal guitar player, you generally would not expect the kind of insight and thought provoking positive outlook that he delivered; but Timo is not your average metal musician by any means. Every time I thought that he would give a particular answer in a certain way he surprised me by giving me something completely different and unexpected. This interview, while it did cover the basics of what is happening with the band, served a much deeper purpose in revealing the very personal side of Timo and the highs and lows surrounding his life and philosophy. It also touched me in a way that I was truly unaware of until I began listening back to the recordings. Throughout the conversation much was revealed to me about myself and how I am affected by this world, as well as my part in the overall scheme of life. So for those now listening to the interview, this is the realist, rawest interpretation I’ve ever presented in an interview. Because of Timo’s unique perspectives I chose to do as little editing as possible on this project in order to preserve the genuineness. Rather than the run-of-the-mill question and answer session, this turned out to be an in-depth conversation between two friends who share a mutual respect for each other that transcends beyond journalist and artist. In Timo’s words, we discussed everything “between Heaven and Hell”, and I couldn’t have said it better. A few prominent points of interest found in this extremely candid interview include Timo’s desire to clear the air on some rather disparaging issues which encompass the untold truth behind his breakdown and the events staged by the members of Stratovarius to gain publicity, the spiritual and philosophical division between Tolkki and the rest of the band and how he has found new hope with his new band Revolution Renaissance. The bands line up is now finalized and complete; recording and touring plans have been laid and the launch of a new web site is forthcoming. Again, we covered a lot of ground in this four part discussion that took place over two days and I opted to leave everything as is in its purest form from broken English to stumbling over words to reminiscing about personal issues, family life, and business as usual. In the end this tell all conversation became one great big ball of enthralling information. In this way it is preserved as the deeply heartfelt conversation we had without resorting to the stereotypical approach to writing that is often presented. It’s a lot to take in and I don’t expect anyone to listen straight through but I do encourage all fans to listen to the entire interview even if it takes a few days and please listen with an open mind and heart.