Epica- Sancta Terra ( Feat. Floor Jansen) Live Retrospect show

#epica #epicareaction #floorjansen #symphonicmetal #Simonesimons #markjansen #coenjanssen #isaacdelahaye #robvanderloo
• Epica - Sancta Terra (...
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[@michaeldecker3480]

now you need to listen to them sing Stabat Mater Doloroso. Then remember that this was metal concert.

[@DarrellW_UK]

Absolutely, it’s Dolorosa though!

[@erickvermeulen9734]

@@DarrellW_UK Now that sounds like Hermione correcting Ron 😀

[@bryancassels6130]

I concur

[@michaeldecker3480]

@DarrellW_UK thanks, I always get it wrong.

[@theuserformerlyknownas-ou7wd9]

A joy to see you hearing this for the first time! Simone Simons is one of only a handful of singers who can really hold their own in duet with Floor - and if you want a real heart-wrencher, listen to them sing Stabat Mater Dolorosa, a 17th Century setting by Pergolesi of a 13th Century poem., and all done in the middle of a Metal gig. It will blow your mind yet again.

[@DarrellW_UK]

Absolutely 100%, such a beautiful song and performance!

[@alexandersteinmetz6857]

i concur 100%!

[@mikeatwork3279]

I concur!

[@knutruther4964]

Hi Red, that's why it's called Symphonic Metal. This concert was the 10th anniversary concert , thats why there is an orchestra . This year Epica are playing with an orchestra again , you wouldn't believe how much I'm looking forward to it

[@snroos1860]

I have copied the following part from Wikipedia: Retrospect is the third live album by Dutch symphonic metal band Epica in celebration of their tenth anniversary. The recorded live show took part in Eindhoven, Netherlands on 23 March 2013 at the Klokgebouw, and was sold out.[3] Because of the great demand by international fans, Epica announced a live stream, called the Retrostream, on 4 March 2013.[4] Epica performed on stage with the same orchestra that accompanied Epica in the recording of the live album The Classical Conspiracy: the 70-piece Extended Hungarian Remenyi Ede Chamber Orchestra and the Choir of Miskolc National Theatre. The expanded ensemble mostly played Epica songs, including a whole new song called Retrospect, especially written for this live show with the same name. Like on The Classical Conspiracy, Epica played some classical music, excerpts from operas and movie soundtracks, however not as many as on the aforementioned show. The album was released on CD, DVD and Blu-ray on 8 November 2013, through Nuclear Blast Records.[5] Before the release of the show on Blu-ray and DVD, the show premiered at two movie theaters: Mathäser Multiplex Kino in Munich, Germany (6 November) and Service Bioscoop Zien in Eindhoven, Netherlands (7 November).[6] On the day of the release, the show was shown in a Belgian movie theater: Kinepolis in Kortrijk, Belgium. The day after, the show was shown a final time in a movie theater: Cineteca Nacional in Mexico City (9 November).[7]

[@gsparkman]

Red, Nightwish also has orchestral backing, which I believe you are aware of. This Epica concert was a special one, so they had the orchestra live with them for it. Nightwish records their orchestral backings with the London Philharmonic Orchestra and plays those recording during concerts. Touring with an orchestra like this is cost prohibitive and a logistical nightmare considering the amount of concerts they play around the world for a typical tour.

[@Babayega19]

I am going the 19th of september. The 20th as well... 🥰

[@NZWozza]

Me too, got a ticket. Now I just gotta sort flights from New Zealand. 🤣

[@Babayega19]

@@NZWozza if you were from the original Zeeland province in The Netherlands (which New Zealand got the name from), it would be much more practical.. 🤣

[@robertsheeler321]

The singer for Epica is Simone Simons (A Red Head) and close long time friend of Floor

[@gabriel.bardac]

Here, you have taken another step into the realm of Symphonic Metal - it seems absolutely normal to me that it should be Epica, since Floor and Simone, both Dutch, are good friends. What doesn't seem normal to me is that there are so many very talented Dutch symphonic metal bands that are much more popular outside their country than in Holland due to preconceptions about this musical genre. Floor managed to overcome this obstacle, after participating in the TV show Beste Zangers.

[@redheadedneighbor]

That is so very interesting to me. I can’t imagine not feeling pride at the talent and artistry these bands have, not to mention influence… look at the crowds.. the ARMY

[@jeffk1482]

⁠I’m with @gabriel.bardac - though my confusion over normal is more like “how does one little country like the Netherlands have so damn many exceptional vocalists and instrumentalists?????”

[@jonathanratliff4780]

By the Arie, the drummer for Epica has deathcore roots in his experience, he is a POWER talent percussionist elite

[@janvanleeuwen2535]

​@@redheadedneighborYes, I'm sorry to say but these bands are all totally neglected by the Dutch radio. Presumably because it's too hard and heavy. They get here and there just a little bit of attention through talkshows, for example if they have a new album out. But even the solo album My Paragon from Floor Jansen gets hardly any credits in the Netherlands. As a 60 years old Dutchy, I am both proud and ashamed of the Netherlands.

[@WardDorrity]

Both Epica and Nightwish create what I call cathedrals of sound. And I love your metaphor of Floor and Simones voices as crystal towers. Perfect.

[@orangeguppie6897]

cathedrals of sound, beautiful said and so true!

[@johan7170]

FYI : As you know, Floor is dutch. Simone (the lead singer from Epica) is also dutch. Before being in Nightwish, Floor was in a smaller dutch band called After Forever (1997 - 2007) and Mark Jansen - the guy who screams "Floooooooor Janseeeeeeeen !" in the end, the guy with the green guitar, was the co-founder of the band (and later he left After Forever and went to found Epica). Often times After Forever and Epica played in the same festivals and even after her band ceased to exist, Floor often appeared as guest on Epica shows. So Floor and Simone became good friends. And it shows in this performance, you can see they have chemistry with each other, you can see they like singing with each other

[@TheIpadfanatic]

EPICA is another rabbit hole for sure. They frequently perform with a full classical orchestra. They are the masters of light & dark.

[@syntheticsleep]

One of the best things about these reactions (Nightwish, Floor, Epica etc) is that not only do I get to see people be genuinely happy and awestruck, but I get to see people be introduced to heavy metal in a way that's not only palatable and accessible, but in a way that gives a glimpse into the vast expanse that metal encompasses. Just think, you've only seen a sliver of Nightwish and Nightwish is only a fraction of a sliver of the world of metal. And it's cool to just get your feet wet and spend as long as you like floating in the shallows.

[@mikedown3219]

Epica are the ultimate symphonic metal band. They incorporate orchestral and metal better than anyone in my view. Epica are a Dutch band and the lead singer is Simone Simons. This was their 10th anniversary show back in 2013. It was a 3 hour show which had just about everything. Generally Epica are heavier than Nightwish and they do incorporate harsh vocals as a contrast to Simone (be warned!). The drummer, Arien, is famous for his double kick bass drum patterns, he must have the stamina of an Olympic athlete! Here are a few other suggestions from this show including another duet between Simone and Floor, singing a 13th Century latin hymn… Unleashed (start here, symphonic metal at it’s best)- kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKnHZ6augd2Xr9U Chasing the Dragon (with sub-titles) (power ballad) - kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqfGkIqOl7udd9k Presto (classical instrumental duet between solo violinist and Epica’s lead guitarist) - kzbin.info/www/bejne/oXXWhp2YhL1mrsk Stabat Mater Dolorosa (13th century latin hymn, duet between lead singer Simone and Floor Jansen) - kzbin.info/www/bejne/pJnXgIKIjrl6rpo Delirium (soft ballad) - kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHK8gXecaL-eZ5Y The Divine Conspiracy (great collaboration with the orchestra)- kzbin.info/www/bejne/l2G3p6WqntOFjbc Design Your Universe (closing number, spectacular) - kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5_Pgatjfaqjebc

[@richardwest6358]

I would suggest you watch the whole three hour concert. It is an excellent demonstration of Epica's range and Simone's stamina as she was pregnant at this time

[@jonathanratliff4780]

There are many great symphonic metal bands out there like visions of Atlantis, Delain, The awesome Dimmu Borgir, Therion, within temptation and Nightwish who are all my gateway up to the supreme power and beauty of Epica!!! By the way you’ll never see Nightwish if they ever tour again but all their history of never performed with orchestra and choirs and Epica and within temptation and Dimmu Borgir have done it numerous times

[@sonet1978]

That is symphonic metal..and Epica is one of them..❤

[@jimmybumgardner8322]

The Epica singer is a red head, just like you, they are very good friends. Great reaction, more please.

[@papaverweg]

Retrospect is the celebration concert of Epica’s 10th anniversary. The recording of this live show took part in Eindhoven, Netherlands on 23 March 2013 at the Klokgebouw, and was sold out. Because of the great demand by international fans, Epica announced a live stream, called the Retrostream, on 4 March 2013. Epica performed on stage with the same orchestra that accompanied Epica in the recording of the live album The Classical Conspiracy: the 70-piece Extended Hungarian “Remenyi Ede Chamber Orchestra” and the Choir of “Miskolc National Theatre”. The expanded ensemble mostly played Epica songs, including a whole new song called Retrospect, especially written for this live show with the same name. Like on The Classical Conspiracy, Epica played some classical music, excerpts from operas and movie soundtracks, however not as many as on the aforementioned show. (The album was released on CD, DVD and Blu-ray on 8 November 2013, through Nuclear Blast Records. Same label as Nightwish and Floor’s own band: ReVamp) Before the release of the show on Blu-ray and DVD, the show premiered at two movie theaters: “Mathäser Multiplex Kino” in Munich, Germany (6 November) and Service Bioscoop “Zien” in Eindhoven, Netherlands (7 November). On the day of the release, the show was shown in a Belgian movie theater: “Kinepolis” in Kortrijk, Belgium. The day after, the show was shown a final time in a movie theatre “Cineteca Nacional” in Mexico City (9 November). Well, that shows how popular Epica is worldwide. Watch Epica live @ "The AFAS LIVE" feat. APOCALYPTICA - "Rivers" kzbin.info/www/bejne/bZrQgX-jq7Gsh6Msi=8As9IX5WjMK81Nkx The Epica singer (Simone Simons) has been a good friend of Floor since they started singing. Mark Jansen from the band Epica (no family connection between those two, just a name similarity: Jansen/Janssen/Janssens is a common name in the Netherlands), the one who chanted Floor's name after the song, was in After Forever with Floor when she was approached to become a background singer in After Forever (soon she took over the lead vocals).

[@damienmaynard8892]

Mark Jansen ( no relation to Floor other than being in her first band) was the founder of Epica - he's the one with the gruff vocals "Floor Janseeeeeeeen!". Epica took their name from a Kamelot album title and Simone is married to Oliver Palotai - keyboard player in Kamelot! That is Arien Van Weesenbeek on drums - hitting things since he was 3yo, according to his parents - lucky he found his dad's drum-kit before he wrecked the furniture! Rock, metal, operatic, choir, orchestra.... Epic Epica! and Simone's S-shaped microphone stand! "Stabat Mater Dolorosa" from the same gig or "Chasing The Dragon" - the latter my fave!

[@kimfabritiusdetengnagel2038]

Floor and Simone goes way back and have done some breathtaking duets - in Epica, Revamp and Ayreon (Arjen Lucassen uses both Floor and Simone a lot in his projects). This kind of music is something you don't have over there in the US. But there are a growing interest for it. In Europe where the composers, musicians and singers don't compete (and are being controlled) in the way they do in US - they cooperate a lot more, and this merge of genres appears, using the absolute top of the different worlds - to create the ultimate musically experience. As you know by now, it is only singers with extraordinary talent and skills that are able to perform this - otherwise you would have to use 2 - 5 different singers. In Ayreon Arjen often does this, to get this experience of a full musically story using the best of all genres. But the normal way is like most Symphonic Metal bands does it, having the symphonic parts controlled in the keyboards. And then in rare occasions like this with Epica - they uses live symphony orchestra on stage. But most of all - Symphonic Metal has to be live experiences - it is so full, rich, complete, complexed and deep, just like something a live, which you cannot catch in a studio. It adds another dimension to music, when you merge the genres.

[@NZWozza]

Love Epica, and yes - their drummer is solid.

[@scifimonkey3]

So glad to see that you bit the bullet and dipped your toe into Epica. Now you have unleashed the vocal joy of Simone Simmons please try ‘Unleashed’ from this same concert and for a gorgeous ballad by them ‘Rivers’Live with Apocalyptica from the AFAS Live.

[@zynius]

So Epica is quite different from Nightwish, but also similar. Nightwish draws a lot of their sound from nordic folk music and epic scores thanks to Tuomas, whilst Epica has a lot of middle eastern influences mixed with an operatic sound. Not all their songs, but quite a few. Their lyrics are often spiritual with some science merged in. They are a lot harder sounding than Nightwish because Simone (the main singer seen here) is not the only singer. They also feature death metal vocals in many songs from the founding member Mark Jansen (no relation to Floor but they did play in the same band once). Floor and Simone are good friends as you can see. Epica's live shows are awesome!

[@alexanderhall1917]

You'll have to love Epica. You and Simone are both beautiful red heads!!!

[@charlesfuller4363]

You have only scratched the surface! I can't wait to see you experience some more Epica. They have some mind blowing performances. I think you are really going to like them.

[@fredericFr]

My 2 favorite singers together for an epic performance 😍🥰🤩❤

[@robertocortez2124]

Thanks for your reaction! I enjoy watching your contagious smile, Epica's music is an epic experience, incredible musicians, awesome singer, great deep lyrics, phenomenal arrangements and performances, Greets!!

[@chuckhand8622]

Welcome to your introduction to Simone Simons!!n now you need to hear Charlotte Wessels with Dalain with Marco at the Masters of Rock Concert performing The Gathering 2017

[@randyboyles]

I concur.

[@albertkassenaar7735]

He Red proud Noord Brabander here Floor and Simone and Anneke van Giersbergen are born in this province angel voices beatiful woman especially there heart 😍🤩

[@Babayega19]

Simone is from Limburg.

[@BrendonChase_2015]

Ey watch it Brabo, Smoony is a Limbo! 😉

[@paulriddle7818]

@@BrendonChase_2015 I thought Simone was from near Eindoven?

[@BrendonChase_2015]

@@paulriddle7818 Hoensbroek, so Simone is from Limbabwe.

[@BrendonChase_2015]

Lol, you were still awestruck when you finished and then Mark with his "FLOOR JANSûûûH!!!" gave you a bit of a jump scare. Great reaction to a song in which drummer Ariën van Weesenbeek did the helicopter (double bass pedals), Floor did the windmill, Simone did the skylark and all the rest did great. "Stabat" next? Cheers from Amsterdam! 🤘

[@timhutchinson8485]

Nightwish and Epica are two of the OGs of symphonic metal. Nightwish going back to 1996, and Epica to 2002.

[@fnglert]

This is a great song and a great performance, but it's not typical of Epica's sound. I hope you continue to explore Epica, they are surely worth the adventure. I might recommend Unleashed to start with.

[@TimoArula]

SO..... Epica... First: Simone Simons + Floor Jansen = POWER COMBO Epica is Epic (well deserved name for the band). Singers name is Simone Simons , and she and Floor are good friends (they are both Dutch) and both classically trained . WHEN Epica hit hard, they are heavier than Nightwish. But they also have some really beautiful, soft and tender ballads. And they often ”cover themselves” in completely different styles (jazz, Irish folk, klezmer…). Being familiar with almost all of their stuff, they still keep me amazed by their talent and epicness, which is just keep growing for almost 20 years. It’s like too much to be from this world, especially when you realize they have about 10 masterpieces in this scale, ballads that will make you cry, countless top-notch badass songs, great covers, orchestral and acoustic versions, insightful lyrics and great stage presence.. enough talent for 20 bands combined. And.. they’re so down-to-earth and generous to their fans. Epica fan's are Epicans . In that note , I highly recommend next : EPICA - The SKELETON KEY - (ΩMEGA ALIVE) (OFFICIAL VIDEO)kzbin.info/www/bejne/sHq9nKmenrSIi5o OR EPICA - Consign To Oblivion - Live at the Zenith (OFFICIAL VIDEO) kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpzUqqyLiaiAi7M AND HERE IS A CURVEBALL : Ayreon - The Day That The World Breaks Down - The Source (2017) kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXfYfn6ap9-Dp7c NWSU/FloorFan/Epican/Ayreonaut 🤘😎🤘.

[@LDBHX]

I concur 🔥💜🤘💜🔥

[@andreaswennberg9542]

Love the band, more Epica! 😄. Epica - Chasing the Dragon (Retrospect live) for a Recommendation.

[@texassendero4901]

Thanks! for all the new music you have given to my life ❤❤❤#redheadedneighbor #bestreactor #beautifulcountrygirl #redsarmy

[@redheadedneighbor]

🤯

[@bujin1977]

Epica is a strange one for me. They're obviously a very talented band, and Simone is an amazing singer. But for some reason, their music just doesn't seem to hit that emotional chord in my brain that I've found with Nightwish. I can't put my finger on what it is. When I found Nightwish a little under 2 years ago, their music made me go out and buy a whole load of their stuff immediately and I've been listening to it repeatedly ever since and just don't get bored of it. Same goes for a couple of other artists I've found over the years. But with Epica, it just hasn't hit me in that way, even though I recognise how good they are.

[@Paul_C]

For me it is exactly the opposite, Epica has a more interesting catalog, and is more relatable for how I live my life. The eternal struggle of living life. Sure, still like Nightwish but Epica 'my' choice. 😊 and yes, when I was discharged from hospital in 2011 and got a 'all clear, you won't die after all, I made sure to get to that concert (home town after all) and a lengthy revalidation I made it. Sadly I had to leave after 2½ hours in, I was dead on my feet. Just glad I made it.

[@ZenMorph]

Same here. I find Epica's music and composition interesting, but in terms of "feels", it doesn't resonate. I can't seem to make a connection with it. By all rights it should gel with me as it ticks all of the boxes, but there's something that's just ... off. The talent is there, for sure, but I'm emotionally flat when I engage with it. Nightwish, on the other hand, sends me on an otherworldly transcendent journey. But hey, we're all different in that way.

[@timhutchinson8485]

the fast drumming you heard around the 7-minute mark was the sound of a 'double-kick' pedal. Two foot pedals hitting the bass drum in rapid succession.

[@bobgross8761]

Yep. It's that good. I love the display of their friendship. Thanks!

[@DaveJ2717uk]

Epica is another fantastic rabbit hole to go down. So many great songs, as someone below said they are heavier than Nightwish, but so good.

[@hellrider224]

Perfection = Symphonic Metal = Nightwish & Epica 😎🤘

[@millerbeer01]

Even non-smokers need a cigarette after this performance. 🤘🏼

[@redheadedneighbor]

Lol

[@MegaDog555]

a classic an a real treat my two fav female singers together

[@redheadedneighbor]

I loved this one

[@ronaldderooij1774]

Floor and Simone were/are good friends since their teens. In fact there is a video on youtube where they try to practice in Simone's?? appartment as cheesy 20 ish year olds. (It did not really go well). Sadly for the Netherlands we lost both of them. Floor lives in Sweden and Simone in Germany now. Metal is not popular in the Netherlands. Just appreciate that Simone had a 23 song concert here whilst 12 weeks pregnant. As for the orchestra and the chorus, well they were Hungarian, so maybe not that expensive, but still Epica must have lost a lot of money on this 10 year anniversary concert.

[@glenngunnis6642]

The choir got your attention at the end!🤘🎸

[@LuvtheJEm]

The drummer is Ariën van Weesenbeek, he used double kick bass drums to make the rapid fire sound you heard. I don't know how familiar you are with drum kits, forgive the explanation if you already know, but each bass drum has it's own foot pedal which allows him to alternate in rapid succession. Sort of like running while sitting down.

[@fredriknilsson6042]

Epica is a heavier band then Nightwish. Its a matter of opinion witch you prefer.. For me its Nightwish its fits my ears more

[@bertwinblok9524]

I like both but prefer Epica. They got beautifull ballads as well

[@blake86303]

Hey...good call. It's Elevated Symphonic Metal!!!

[@strabel803]

👍So Red,you met "our" Dutch red queen ,Simone Simons.😉😆The guy at the end screaming Floor's name,was the guitar player/composer ,for the first few years,from Floor's first band "After forever". He ,Mark Jansen (no relative to Floor) wanted to go a other direction (Epica) so he stepped out the band and Simone is a little younger than Floor and they are good friends. So ,this was Epica,maby some Ayreon with Floor now. 😅 Floor's carreer is so diverse and she did lot's of collaborations ,it's almost impossible to choose from but,let me tell you,it's always worth checking out.🤘

[@Roddrummer]

I love heavy music, and I love symphonic music, and when you expertly put the two together, it's pure DYNAMITE. And when you wack two of the greatest voices on the planet out front of it, the effect is OUT OF THIS WORLD.

[@jeffk1482]

I concur!

[@fjnw]

So much to take in. Welcome to the marvelous world of Symphonic Metal. Nightwish of course you know, Epica is a dutch band, and their singer Simone, one of the founders, is a good friend of Floor. If you like to enjoy their voices some more, from this same concert is their rendition of the classical piece Stabat Mater Dolorosa. Stunning to see a few thousand metal fans fall silent at such a beautiful performance.

[@berniehand5528]

I believe you are understanding why people flow towards these bands. There are only a few singers that can hold their own with floor, and you just saw one. Simone is high quality and entertaining. We have no one in present America that can match up to these 2 gems. I am glad you are looking at the over all picture of their music. I hope you get to night wish and "the greatest show on earth." I know it will blow your mind. Tampere or Wembly shows are my favorites.

[@Pravdacz-tp8zu]

Yes, you do. Adrienne Cowan from Seven Spires. Not quite the same type of singer as Simone and Floor, but one of the few female singers who can potentially match Floor's skillset and versatility. Insane talent, insanely underpromoted.

[@diedzjeeoudshoorn7726]

Hi, you stumbled upon a phenomena called "the Dutch metal female Goddesses" . The number of mindblowing metal Front women from the Netherlands is amazing. Anneke van Giersbergen is called the Grandmother Goddess. She was and is the inspiration for for instance Floor Jansen. Then there is Simone Simons from Epica that you can hear singing in this clip. In a project called Ayreon ( please check that out, it is on the same epic level as for instance Nightwish) you can see a lot of Dutch singers like Irene Jansen ( yes, Floors sister) and Marcela Bovio, besides Anneke. And of course you know Within Temptation with Sharon den Adel, well known world wide.... So I guess there is something in the water over here 😂😉

[@BrendonChase_2015]

Yup, Marcela is an honorary Dutchie ;) Let's also mention Dianne van Giersbergen and Zora Cock.

[@DarrellW_UK]

Floor’s main influence was Henk Poort, he was her childhood musical hero.

[@johnfreeman5310]

The 'helicopter rotors' you heard was the drummer playing double bass drums very quickly. Imagine it's like a drum roll but on the bass drums. By the way, Simone, Epica's singer wrote this. Floor and Simone are great friends and shared a flat back in the day. Both are classically trained. Check out Sabat Mater Dolorosa and you'll see just what I mean. Sabat Mater Dolorosa is a 13th century hymn about Mary's pain seeing Jesus on the cross. Now, remember, this is at Epica's concert. See how the metalhead audience reacts. That'll tell you something about metalheads.

[@rogerballoujr.6244]

Your reaction was priceless!! Your smile said all that needed to be said. Epica is a great band just like Nightwish, the symphonic metal genre is a very vast and deep ocean to explore, and it will be wonderful watching your reactions to other bands that I love in the genre. Simone Simons, Floor Jansen, Anneke van Giersbergen, and Sharon Den Adel are the Mount Rushmore of female symphonic metal lead vocalists.

[@Pravdacz-tp8zu]

How dare you make up Mount Rushmore of symphonic metal and not even mention Tarja?

[@rogerballoujr.6244]

@@Pravdacz-tp8zu I limited it to 4 and since she left Nightwish I don't really consider her solo stuff as symphonic metal, though to be fair I have not listened to much of it. If I were to allow a few more I would definitely include her and Charlotte Wessels...

[@Pravdacz-tp8zu]

@@rogerballoujr.6244 She pretty much popularized the genre though.

[@rogerballoujr.6244]

@@Pravdacz-tp8zu She was one of the first, I can't deny that...the same can be said for the others I mentioned though they all started between like 1996 and 2002 if I am not mistaken. I'll say that maybe the list should include her and Charlotte as well.

[@cobra427me]

What just happened? Oh Symphonic Metal! Simone, Floor with Epica and orchestral. It's pure heaven. Thanks for the stunned reaction. Need to have a lie down after that song. Cheers!

[@redheadedneighbor]

So good!

[@Ieeho98]

Nice Reaction Neighbor! Their voices together will just captivate you, but they did another song together at this concert. Stabat Mater Dolorosa. It's Opera.

[@darkaether2798]

Both operatic sopranos, with a similar vocal style. The orchestra adds a depth and power you don’t normally get. This is awesome.

[@frenkwd1]

Simone and Floor are not only Dutch. They've also been friends for a long time. Greetings from the Netherlands.

[@WakefieldTolbert]

These two women are goddesses. May they rule 10,000 years.

[@LDBHX]

Epica is a pure Epicness 🔥🤘💜 Can't wait for more Embrace for Epic impact 🔥 Simone's voice is so beautiful and angelic ❣ Also Arjen Lucassen 🤘 later DIANNE ft. A L Symphonic Tragedy 🔥❣💜🎧

[@elfes.schmitt2284]

It is pure art and unlimited talent and devotion. 😊

[@whirledpeaz5758]

Symphonic metal, the bleding of beautiful classical with invigorating metal. Tickles the intellectual and the primal parts of the brain. Perfection.

[@boba6890]

Breathtaking! Complex composition, classical orchestra, full chorus, metal band, 2 remarkable classically trained female vocalists. Floor: a classically trained Dramatic Soprano, an operatic soprano with a powerful, rich, emotive voice that can sing over, or cut through, a full orchestra. Simone; Coloratura Soprano, lighter, bright, agile, ornamentation in the high upper extension. Floor and Simone, both Sopranos, sound amazing together; very different complementary voices. Many argue opera is dying, yet Metalheads love Symphonic Metal with 2 classical vocalists, Floor and Simone. The better argument is that opera hasn't died, just changed, as it can't be dead if millions of Metalheads are entranced listening to 2 remarkable classically trained female vocalists sing music based on opera and classical music. Even greater proof is Simone and Floor singing Stabat Mater Dolorosa which was written by Giovanni Battista Pergolesi n 1736! (Yes, Floor and Simone sing Pergolesi's legendary Baroque music from 1736 in front of a massive audience of Metalheads at a Metal Concert, and everyone, who was headbanging and yelling just moments before, falls totally silent, entranced as they hear these two remarkable women sing an Italian Baroque masterpiece that's almost 300 years old!) (If you want to check out some other amazing women vocalists who sing opera within Symphonic Metal start out with Dianne Van Giersbergen, who is a Spinto Soprano, which is very different from both Floor Jansen and Simone Simons. Floor; Dramatic Soprano-- very powerful, rich, emotive voice. Simone; Coloratura Soprano - lighter, bright, agile. Dianne; Spinto Soprano -high range, darker timbre-tone, dramatic climaxes).

[@leeblack3335]

This happens only in the Netherlands! wait till you explore Ayreon The man that discoverd floor as a teenager!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@markclements7767]

I concur

[@jimwells4240]

What I love most about your channel is that you're so "available" to be amazed by truly amazing music and musicians.....

[@redheadedneighbor]

That is beautiful. Thank you

[@reddiamondstone]

Despite Nightwish being by far my favourite group - followed by Xandria (try one of theirs too!), this live version is my favourite all time song... So far. Just something about it. Keep those reactions coming... Nightwish, Epica (and Xandria). 😊

[@ChrisEchoes]

Hi Red, you have been introduced to the one of the most fascinating metal bands out there with the Red Headed Metal Queen Simone as lead vocalist. The Epica rabbit hole is really deep. The music is heavy both musically and lyrically. Vocally Simone was from the beginning very classically based but the last few years IMHO has grown immensely to be very well rounded in that department developing much more colours in her voice. Check out they recent AFAS Live videos they released for the scope of her talent and that of Epica as a whole.

[@javadan]

Those drum fills you heard were double kick pedals. They are not the easiest to use properly, but Arjen is a double kick master. Welcome to Epica. Nightwish has the Nightwish Army, Epica has the Epicans. If your interest in Epica is peaked, you will find this to be another rabbit hole. I suggest watching Epica at this same concert performing Unleashed, and/or Design Your Universe, and their Omega Alive performance of Kingdom of Heaven Part 3. They will blow your socks off. BTW - The Epica front woman, Simone Simmons, and Floor are long time friends! Unleashed : kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKnHZ6augd2Xr9Usi=gzW4ctIMuQ84Bl7N Design Your Universe : kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5_Pgatjfaqjebcsi=gj04FE34wkkCNlx4 Kingdom of Heaven 3 (13 minutes!) : kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJWldImDeZ2Hn68si=mYiNL0fVAO6vrtQZ Enjoy!

[@ladydalida6917]

Nightwish Army South Germany Division here The Goddess of Valkyries and THE Queen of Epice together on one Stage - This is epic pure ! And at the same time it opens another window into a fantastic band in terms of symphonic metal: the world of Epica... "Consign to Oblivion", "Beyond the Matrix" and many other works are waiting for you... Many greetings from Germany The lady

[@watchtheskies]

Hi Red, welcome to the wonderful world of EPICA, I think you will like this one, this is an awesome performance from a concert last year in Amsterdam 🙃 EPICA - Unleashed (Live At The AFAS Live)

[@PittDaddy]

The word you were looking for is EPIC. Please continue your Epica journey. Try the song Unleashed.

[@leesidor7363]

Hello Red, I luv your reviews of these 2 fab bands. Your smile and wide eyed look of surprise is very entertaining. Please keep up the good work Want to try something different but similar? Give Ayreon a look. Arjen Lucassen writes and performs with many artists including Floor, Simone and so many more talented musicians, and their all here on KZbin to enjoy

[@progoholic]

Well, you heard Simone Simons, the second most beautiful redhead on the planet (Guess who's #1? 🥰😍😘). I saw a lot of your first Nightwish listen in that reaction. And yes, Epica is a similar deep and fascinating rabbit hole. But you have to be careful in the song choice. Their whole catalog is fantastic, but some songs are also much heavier than Nightwish. Your reaction as Mark Jansen, one of their guitarists thanked Floor at the end, well, you better get used to it, these harsh vocals are in many Epica songs. To ease you in, just to get an idea what great songs this band can perform, I recommend 'Rivers' and 'Once Upon a Nightmare', both from their Ωmega Alive show. I promise, you will love 'Rivers'. Its complete Acapella with a stunning choral arrangement. Here are the links: 'Rivers (Acapella)': kzbin.info/www/bejne/bZjIeKedn96Eoqs and 'Once Upon a Nightmare': kzbin.info/www/bejne/paTIg32MZc54gNU Thanks for a great reaction, your body language says it all... And made me smile... Again. Much love from Germany, Prog O'Holic

[@progoholic]

As Epica has released the whole Ωmega Alive show today on YT (in 4K!) here are the links to the Epica official release with the according timestamps (I think they deserve it... 🤘❤🤘❤🤘 ) Rivers: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o6PToXiNfNGSqdU Once Upon a Nightmare: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o6PToXiNfNGSqdU

[@orangeguppie6897]

Hi Red thanks for your reaction! The voices, like crystal towers, beautiful said, bye

[@redheadedneighbor]

Thank you too!

[@nevermore5168]

Floor and Simone are really great friends as well as all the band members. Epica as well as Nightwish are in the symphonic metal family, however Epica there band members do some growling vs Nightwish that doesn't as much ( Floor does some) but their music is powerful and mystical like Nightwish in my eyes. They've both toured together in the past but make no mistake they are worth it. So my redheaded Bettie Page (remember compliment) enjoy!!💋🌹🎼

[@SteveCoronado2]

Your reaction actually brought tears of joy to my eyes Symphonic Metal at its best 🤘🏻💥🔥🙏🏻💯

[@redheadedneighbor]

That makes me so happy

[@MiniLemmy]

It’s uniqueness is very magnetic - it combines metal, classical and opera in a way that’s never been done before, making it very complex with multiple layers to it and not easy to categorise apart from ‘Symphonic metal’ The genius that goes into the composition of these tunes is another level of songwriting altogether IMO - glad you enjoyed it as much as I do…

[@riverdragon17]

Nightwish and Epica are the very top of the symphonic metal genre. Both are kind of their own genre, actually. Is very classically influenced. Floor and Simone are besties from way back, Which explains their great stage prescence.

[@roblaw4554]

Sooo much to explore, eh? That's a really good thing. And this performance was a Great choice to begin noticing the numerous side trails and rabbit holes on your journey. Will love to see you share it. Thanks! Cheers rl 🤘👹🤘

[@Calumetto]

Love that little "WooHoo" from Floor at the end. (-: ••• Stratus! FEAR!!!

[@jennienoppers210]

For me the discovery of Floor and Nightwish have made me listen to more Metal. From most I do like some songs, some I find intriging (Ayreon) and one I realy like (Sabaton). For me I like clear singing and melodic music. It is great to discover what you learn to love by hearing it!

[@tatters2072]

"Stabat Mater Dolorosa" from the same concert. 13th century lyrics, 18th century music, 21st century performance.

[@stpfs9281]

Lots of connections, Floor and Simone are friends, there is a nice clip of them together at Simones home practicing. They supported each other as guest appearances. Mark Jansen (no relation), the gravelly voice at the end, was with Floor in their former band. Simone was expecting, not as vigorous as Floors windmills.

[@2112666123]

EPICA IS BEAUTIFUL METAL 🤘 THEY PLAY DEATH METAL HEAVY METAL MIXED WITH OPERA ORCHESTRA PIANO SOUNDS ITS AMAZING UNLIKE ANY MUSIC FROM THE PAST !!!! 25 more songs like this to go through !!!

[@MountainMetal]

Yep. That whole show was incredible. You could just start at the very biginning (with the orchestral intro before the curtain drops) and do every song and not go wrong. Took a year to organize that show. Huge, expensive deal to use a whole live orchestra and choir, obviously)

[@Ireksojkowski]

Very beautiful, thank you 🥰🥰🥰

[@redheadedneighbor]

You’re welcome 😊

[@MrDijaru]

tnx for your great reaction 🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@tomk51]

Great reaction Red. A beautiful song by Epica is Tides of Time. This really features Simone's vocals without being buried by too much of the instrumentals and is more of a ballad than a heavy in-your-face piece. Just listen to the album version.

[@ManuelGuajardo-zd7hx]

Wintersun sons of winter and stars 1.5 lyric video your first wintersun reaction. By the way your a very pretty Redhead. Thank you ❤️

[@DarrellW_UK]

I was hoping that sooner or later you would check this song out, so if you were impressed by this go to Stabat Mater Dolorosa from the same concert again a duet of Simone and Floor but a Latin hymn this time, but sung in Italian. You will hear (or not) a very big crowd of metalheads being as quiet as mice! It’s a beautiful song and next level up from this one!

[@jerrymail]

There are so many good artists in Metal, it's a shame that the mainstream media has put an embargo on it.

[@juanmendez3770]

You make us smile 😊. It’s wonderful to see you embark on this journey. Greetings from Alabama 😎

[@redheadedneighbor]

Awesome! Thank you! Hello!!

[@mirjamvond1731]

I always find it weird when people are proud of their country. But at moments like this I cannot deny being proud of our Dutch music talents ❤

[@redheadedneighbor]

You should be.💕💕

[@hermenw.huiskamp8555]

You may enjoy the next song in the set 'Design your universe'. 🤘

[@SRMWorkshop]

I think that sound you heard was a pair of double kick drums. A double kick strikes the drum when you press down on the pedal and when you fully release it, he had them timed perfect to make 4 hits in the space of 1.

[@jamieforte8627]

Its like being force fed fast food music all your life until someone takes you to a 4 star restaurant 😂 you don't know what to order but you want to taste everything!!!

[@markclements7767]

That is a great analogy 😂

[@greeniesr]

Your friend BuckeyeCreeker just reacted to "Dead Boys Poem", time you listen to one of Floor's finest vocals....

[@mattmid7012]

There's a lot to take in. lol. And the guy didn't "sing" in that one. That might blow your mind further and the jury is out on it for me still as I generally find it annoying in other bands. lol I really want to get into them, Simone Simons is an incredible singer, the music is great but... well I won't spoil it wait and see what you think. To be fair I haven't listened to that many of their songs either although I knew this one. Next stop could be Sabaton. It's not Christmas, obviously, lol, but the song Christmas Truce (official video) would be a great place to start. A great storytelling song and video of a true event. All their song lyrics are based on historical events/wars and this one is the Christmas Truce during World War 1. Also the drummer in Sabaton is Floor's husband.

[@anitabons6034]

try Ayreon > both Floor and Simone (and many othter great artists) sing with him

[@hajovelt3083]

Nightwish: Finland, Epica:The Netherlands/Holland, Sabaton: Sweden, Rammstein: Germany. It's metal music from good old europe...

[@stuartmcivor2276]

Epica are at the same time both heavier and more orchestral than Nightwish. Floor used to be in After Forever with Mark Jansen (no relation) the founder of Epica.

[@sebastienwaslet9440]

Floor and Simone Best friends in real life

[@Babayega19]

I would recommend storm the sorrow (videoclip), unleashed ( live at retrospect, same show as what you have been watching), beyond the matrix (live at zenith paris), and after that some of the more heavier songs like: consign to oblivion (at the zenith again), the essence of silence. But they have many more beautiful songs, even ballads. Please open up this can, ill bet you will love it...

[@henkhummel6782]

Simone Simons leadsinger of Epica is a dear friend of Floor, i think you would like some more songs from Epica as well, i recomment Consign to Oblivion especially the live version in Paris , love your comments and you have a very nice smile.

[@fabrizio_prina]

If you like Floor you will like Simone Simons. Btw they, both, are really good friends ;-) These two magnificent women and singers also collaborate with many other artists, both alone and together, and projects. I advise you to look for their collaborations with Sabaton, Avantasia and others but above all with the Ayreon project, a project born from the Dutch musical genius Arjen Anthony Lucassen. In any case these two women will never disappoint you. PS: Epica's drummer is wonderfully insane ;-)