Product Description
Content Introduction Epica, the Dutch symphonic metal band fronted by vocalist Simone Simons, has released their long-awaited new album! Maintaining their signature symphonic and progressive gorgeous arrangements, this album explores a new dimension, pursuing a more dynamic and organic sound! Epica is a band proudly representing the Netherlands, a powerhouse of symphonic metal. After leaving After Forever, Mark Jansen started a project called Sahara Dust in 2002. Simone Simons, now the face of the band, joined them, and in 2003, they changed their name to Epica and released their first album, "The Phantom Agony." Their heavy, symphonic songs and Simone's vocals became a major topic of conversation, and they quickly became a popular band. Since then, they have consistently released high-quality albums, becoming one of the leading symphonic metal bands in the Netherlands. Now, Epica is releasing their first new album in four years. Titled "Aspiral," the album's title is said to be inspired by the work of Polish sculptor Stanis?aw Szukalski. The keyword for this album is teamwork, with the theme being the elimination of individual egos. All members participated in the songwriting process, and the recording was done with everyone playing together to capture the energy of a live performance. The resulting work is organic and dynamic. Of course, the choir and symphonic and progressive arrangements have also been refined to an astonishing degree. The members' statement that "Epica has reached the next level" is certainly justified by this superb work! A must-listen for symphonic/gothic metal fans, and all heavy metal fans alike! - A leading symphonic metal band from the Netherlands - Their influence has grown even more in recent years, with appearances as a special guest on Metallica tours and large-scale performances collaborating with orchestras - Their iconic artwork is by Heidi Xandt, who has also worked with Rammstein, Ghost, and Parkway Drive [Members] Simone Simons (Vocals) Mark Jansen (Guitar/Vocals) Koon Jansen (Keyboard/Piano) Isaac Delahay (Guitar) Rob van der Roo (Bass) Arjen van Wiesenbeek (Drums) [CD Tracklist] 01. Cross the Divide 02. Arcana 03. Darkness Dies in Light - A New Age Dawns Part VII - 04. Obsidian Heart 05. Fight to Survive - The Overview Effect - 06. Metanoia - A New Age Dawns Part VIII - 07. T.I.M.E. 08. Apparition 09. Eye of the Storm 10. The Grand Saga of Existence - A New Age Dawns Part IX - 11. Aspiral Media Reviews and More Epica, the Dutch symphonic metal band fronted by vocalist Simone Simons, has released their long-awaited new album! While retaining their gorgeous symphonic and progressive arrangements, this album pursues a new dimension with a more dynamic and organic sound! (C)RS