Dutch symphonic metal band Epica is a band that I just discovered this year so I will definitely be adding them to my list pleasant surprises in 2010. Symphonic metal seems to be a term I’ve heard a good bit pinned onto European bands but Epica seems to be the one that truly lives up to to descriptive term. Epica’s music is massive and so full of depth and character. It is quite a listening experience that is full of ear candy but to see it performed live takes it to an entirely stratospheric level. Where most bands have a hard time pulling off music like this live, Epica manages to pull it off with precision and ease.
The best way I can describe Epica’s performance is to say that it was visually stunning. Overseas the band is accustomed to performing in larger venues where they can have more elaborate stage sets and lighting. Here they were playing a small club and instead of just making do with what they have, Epica decided to do everything they could to give the American fans a taste of the elaborate and at times awe inspiring show. The band took to a loud and appreciative audience opening with Samadhi and Resign to Surrender from their 2009 “Design Your Universe” album and from the first note of singer Simone Simons I was completely floored. The contrast of Simon’s gorgeous operatic vocals the the snarling and dark growls of guitarist/songwriter Mark Jansen created a beautiful tension from song to song as the rest of the band each possessed stage presence that completely captivated me and drew me in. Each song was met with a huge response from the crowd showing me that Epica really doesn’t have “the” song that everyone dies to hear. All of their songs were received enthusiastically but the true highlight for me was the 10 minute epic “Consign To Oblivion.” Not many metal bands can pull of songs of this length besides Iron Maiden and Dream Theater yet they managed to completely pull it off all the while captivating and engaging the crowd chord for chord, note for note. This is what solidified them to me as one of the best around.
There isn’t a single slouch in this band. Bassist Yves Huts, guitarist Isaac Delahaye, drummer Ariën van Weesenbeek and keyboardist Coen Janssen throughout each song had ample opportunity to showcase their musicianship and stage presence as they engaged each other and the audience. It was so refreshing to see a band having so much fun on stage. Metal bands have the tendency to look like it’s not cool to have a good time on stage but these guys (and gal) were obviously having an absolute blast with each other and with the audience. The banter was kept to a minimum but when there was banter they were showing their appreciation and encouraging everyone to have a good time and to let loose.
Epica’s light show was something to be seen. There was so much thought and effort put into each songs performance and the lighting was nothing short of amazing. The elaborate lighting complimented the aggressive beauty of Epica’s songs yet the strength was purely in the band’s performance. I’ve seen so many bands that could benefit from a great stage production because of their lack of presence. Epica is one of the few bands that I feel doesn’t need to rely on such things as they use it as an enhancement rather than a crutch. Epica brings a touch of class to the metal world in a way that opens doors for their fans to experience something special. Epica’s live performance lyrically and musically swept me off my feet for nearly two hours. Epica creates a world for their audience where everyone is welcome and where everyone can become part of the epic stories and concepts that they have created. Epica is a band that truly lives up to their name. It’s a moniker that can be a hard one to live up to but they do it and they do it well.
Epica Setlist
Samadhi, Resign to Surrender, Sensorium, Fools of Damnation, Unleashed, Martyr of the Free Word, Cry for the Moon, Imperial March, Tides of Time, Blank Infinity, The Obsessive Devotion, Kingdom of Heaven
Encore:
Sancta Terra, Quietus, Consign to Oblivion
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