First-time reaction to EPICA | Consign To Oblivion Live at the Zenith

Join me as I offer my reaction to ‪@epica‬'s live performance at Zenith, where they performed "Consign to Oblivion." EPICA has been a highly requested reaction, and here it is. Feel free to comment below if you have an EPICA song recommendation to further explore.
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#EPICA #ConsignToOblivion #reactionvideo #metalhead #metalreaction #metalmuse

[@samusahlsten5948]

I think Dom really needs more Epica. Very good reaction.

[@themetalmuse]

Expect more EPICA!

[@VeljkoNikolic-is5px]

@@themetalmuse I hope less NW.

[@chriso6719]

Welcome to EPICA, after you navigate through the cat sabotage. 😼. Yes, please take the journey down this rabbit hole. They are a Dutch symphonic metal band, formed in 2002 by guitarist and harsh vocalist Mark Jansen, after parting with his former band After Forever. Yes lead singer is Simone Simons, 17 in 2002, she was training for pop singing when she heard Tarja with Nightwish, and then switched to this style. Mark had co-founded After Forever, which is the first band Floor joined at age 16(Mark and Floor are not releated). Coen Jansen on keys is the other remaining original member. The current lineup seen here has been constant since 2012. Isaac Delahaye on lead guitar, bassist Rob van der Loo, and drummer Arien van Weesenbeek. Several EP's and 8 full albums to date, album #9 is in the works. The contrasting clean and harsh vocals are sometimes referred to as Beauty and the Beast. Most songs have the mix, but also have a few all clean, including some beautiful ballads. This song is one of their heavier songs, title track to the 2nd album from 2005. Often used as the show closer, like here, it is still played today. As you see, they are awesome live. There are only a few songs from this 2017 show online. But they have full concerts available. Retrospect 2013 10th anniversary and 2021 Omega Alive virtual show are 2 good ones. From Omega Alive, try "The Skelton Key" and "Kingdom of Heaven Part 3". From Retrospect, "Design Your Universe" and "Sancta Terra" (feat Floor). And for a newer performance, from 20223 in Amsterdam at AFAS Live, "Code of Life" and the ballad "Rivers" feat Apocalyptica.

[@themetalmuse]

Wow!!! Thank you for the info. Defo going on a journey 😁😁😁

[@whirledpeaz5758]

​@@themetalmuseRivers ft Apocalyptica is frankly the most beautiful song I have ever heard in my 58 years.

[@nightwishlover8913]

@@whirledpeaz5758 For me it's a close second to "Tides of Time".

[@2112666123]

YEAH SEEN THEM 5 Times and a very a cut above 👆 many bands an amazing band they are down home and greet fans waiting in line on the side talk to you and WOW MET THEM 5 times after the show in the lobby and souvenir area got pictures with all of them except for Isaac and Simone

[@scifimonkey3]

Glad to see that you enjoyed Epica, kind of knew that you would. Would suggest ‘Unleashed’ from the Retrospect concert for the next dip in the pool. Full Orchestra, full Choir, the band and Simone’s voice soaring above it all.

[@themetalmuse]

Great suggestion! 😎

[@whirledpeaz5758]

I concur

[@MountainMetal]

@@themetalmuse That whole show was amazing. Huge production. Took a year to organize.

[@HWaii]

Epica is very versatile and definitely worth to watch more of them. This was one of their heavier songs. Another song with lots of different elements would be "Kingdom of heaven part 1". "Rivers" is also nice and focusses more on Simone's vocals. You probably will also like "Sancta Terra" which features a guest singer you already know. But please watch that one later, after getting to know pure Epica. As with Nightwish, Epica shines in the live versions. The singer with the harsh vocals is Mark Jansen. Before founding Epica, he was in the band After Forever together with Floor Jansen. After Forever sounded similar to Epica, so you might like them, too.

[@themetalmuse]

Ohhhhh thank you for the recommendations and the info ❤️❤️❤️

[@toumpanis]

Epica + The Metal Muse =

[@themetalmuse]

😘😘😘

[@toumpanis]

@@themetalmuse Dom, Epica have done 2 live concerts in Athens in the past 2 years. The first was with Sabaton and the 2nd it was just them last fall, you can search my youtube channel "Comfuzio" and Epica to see the videos I made about Epica! Amazing experience both times and I hope they will revisit Greece :D

[@wildhoney126]

this group has everything: from epic heavy symphonic prog metal masterpieces and quite heavy symphonic death metal tracks and even a little black metal to soft beautiful ballads, jazz, folk, in their music they use a lot of different genres and by searching they can play and sing everything , anything. This band is a journey

[@2112666123]

Yeah I call them BEAUTIFUL METAL 🤘

[@gerrygrouwe70]

More more 🤘🤘🤘

[@themetalmuse]

Your wish is my command 😁😁😁

[@scotgregg4349]

Simone is the physical manifestation of her own voice, just beautiful.

[@themetalmuse]

Agree 👍 💯

[@MJ-xi5jg]

For something heavy with a fantastic breakdown: the Essense of Silence official live, for a wonderfull sort of ballad: once upon a nightmare, the Omega Alive version. Enjoy!

[@themetalmuse]

Thanks for the suggestions 👍🙏

[@pauloverbeeke2352]

I told you so ! long time ago ! Simone is also an guest singer in the Ayreon projects! There's much more from Epica to see !

[@themetalmuse]

I'll check it out!

[@apaysse]

You should try “Beyond the Matrix” from this same concert. Very fun song and I think you will really like that one. Cheers!

[@whirledpeaz5758]

I concur emphatically

[@themetalmuse]

I’ll check it out!

[@mikedown3219]

Simone Simons is the lead singer, she started classical training aged 16.5 and she joined Epica aged 17, back in 2002. So she has only ever sung with the band, apart from collaborations. However, they have done a couple of concerts with full orchestra and choir. In 2008 they played in Hungary and produced the live CD The Classical Conspiracy. No official video, but worth listening to Simone sing Ombre Mai Fu with the orchestra. The other concert is called Retrospect and was their 10th anniversary show in the Netherlands, in 2013. The full show is available on KZbin but here are some suggestions… 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

[@themetalmuse]

Thank you for the detailed comment 🤗🤗

[@mikedown3219]

@@themetalmuse 🤘

[@themetalmuse]

🥳

[@CyberBeep_kenshi]

my favourite band Ever 🤘😎🤘 A good song for some contrast is "Once upon a nightmare - omega alive concert". Basically a power balad, with gorgeous solos etc. And the 'default' others are: chasing the dragon - retrospect Design your universe - retrospect Kingdommof heaven part 3 - omega laive. list is endless lol. And its all good!

[@renejensen7799]

The live in Zenith performance is like 3 hours long i think, but its one of the shows i would advice ALL to watch, as its amazing all 3 hours!! Epica is oner of my favorite bands ever, and Simone Simons is actually soon releasing a solo album, first song is released just a few days ago from there, Atherna i think its called right, you could check that out to, Arjen Lucassen compsed this song, and i would belive Simone wrote lyrics, she also write about half the lyrics in Epica, Mark Jansen (ther growler) writes a lot to, but all in band actually write a little..

[@themetalmuse]

3 hours 🫢🫢🫢

[@eckligt]

Small correction, it's the Retrospect 2013 show that is 3 hours long. Not sure how long the Zenith, but it was a mostly normal Epica show so probably clocking in at around 1.5 to 2 hours. On the other hand, Simone the singer was 3 months pregnant during their 3-hour Retrospect concert!

[@frank1963]

Thank you for reacting to my favorite band. I am 💯 % sure you are going to become a great EPICAN by the looks of it. You have a lot of catching up to do,22 years, better late than never. I see Chris O already gave you a lot of information. I will follow your journey with you. Have a great weekend. 🫶🤘

[@themetalmuse]

Thank you 🙏

[@hver41]

Epica Journey - Yes please!

[@themetalmuse]

On it 😆

[@tazman66gt18]

well, you could to retrospect, but it is a 3 hour concert. Floor does two duets with Simone and they have a full live archestral backing throughout. but, if you want to start at the beginning go with their 2006 Live at Paradiso.

[@2112666123]

EPICA HAS ABOUT 25 songs like this all different U should get hooked if u give them time An amazing band seen them 5 times I know !!!!

[@GerritvanDoorn1]

For the other side of the spectrum of Epica have a look at: - Rivers (AFAS) - Once Upon a Nightmare (ΩMEGA ALIVE) -> Love this one - Dreamscape (Pinkpop live or Epica Universe) Slightly heavier: - Code of Life (AFAS) - Unleashed (OFFICIAL LIVE, Retrospect)

[@themetalmuse]

Thanks for the advice ❤️

[@Pilomaf]

Shivers down my spine.. Had not heard this track before. It's amazing! I love the contrast with metal, growl and "opera" like Nightwish and Tristania too.. There's just something about it those soprano/operatic voices that really gets me.

[@joppepeelen]

Go for the Retrospect !! relaly great ! also great ending song !! live ofcourse

[@felipecampos3045]

check out Design your universe live retrospect, they play with a full orchestra, it will give you goosebumps

[@kjvail]

Epica is so heavy and so classical at the exact same time. They’ve done several live DVDs, 2 of them with a full orchestra backing on stage. The last one in 2014. They also did the best of the live streaming concerts during COVID.

[@themetalmuse]

I will have to check those out

[@kjvail]

@@themetalmuse Retrospect 2014, The Classical Conspiracy 2006, Omega Alive in 2022. All on KZbin.

[@2112666123]

EPICA IS BEAUTIFUL METAL 🤘

[@themetalmuse]

💯💯💯

[@Kelly-pp1et]

Greatest symphonic metal band of all time. You need to go into the rabbit hole. Slowly . Most serious, in depth lyrics from any other band ever. Very few understand them fully. The sweetest voice and above all some exquisite musicians with pure talent and heart.

[@user-pi3hw5pb1g]

The essence of silence live official video ...

[@themetalmuse]

👍👍

[@manudude02]

The main concerts you'll find from Epica (in chronological order) are Paradiso, Retrospect, the Zenith, Omega Alive (covid e-concert) and AFAS Live. There are other concerts and festivals, but those are the main ones.

[@themetalmuse]

Thank you 🙏

[@Censeo]

Definitely do more Epica. They have so many good songs. My favorites are these epics that are 10 minutes or more. They really do hold your attention the entire time. There are good pandemic live performance streams (Not streamed live but audio and video of performance is a one take) of "kingdom of heaven part 1" and "kingdom of heaven part 3". Part 2 has no live I'm aware of, but it is not necessary to react to anything in order or more than one of the songs cause it's just songs on the same theme and not a storyline. I also love "once upon a nightmare" which is a metal ballad. That can also be found from the pandemic stream. It was such an amazing idea to stream a new performance during the time people couldn't see any bands live.

[@Babayega19]

Welcome to the rabbithole you have wished to open up way earlier. Just like i did, and i am dutch ffs.... this is all you need. Dont get me wrong, i love a whole lot of other bands, but this one has everything and more. By far the best ive ever heared, hands down....

[@themetalmuse]

Thank you for the warm welcome! Oh where to start 🤔

[@johnnybegood7]

1. Metal muse, at last, welcome to Epica journey, to Epica university. YOU 'VE GOT WORK TO DO! 2. Mark Jansen, the guitarist and the growler has a degree and master in Psychology. In his previous band, Aftet forever, Floor was the singer. No relation with her. 3. You reacted to their most heavy song, where Simone has a second role. The specific song is about the crazy way of our modern way of life, in this brave new world, full of stress and anxiety. "We capture time so time made us hostages without mercy". 4. Always, always, check their lyrics! 5. Wait until you hear some of their ballads. You'll be astonished by Simone, a L'Oreal model and a very creative mind, friend of Floor and Tarja! 6. Your next reaction should be Unleashed( Rectrospect show) with full orchestra and choir where Simone was 3months pregnant. 7.Since you're interested in all things about metal, I'll be glad to join my website (not a KZbin channel) coming on October, to listen to metal music...differently. I"ll keep you informed. Greetings from Greece!

[@themetalmuse]

🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@seanherskowitz5998]

If you lived that show there are actually two I think are vertex; Retrospective in 2013 and The Covid livestream concert from 2022 which I would suggest you check out Kingdom Of Heaven part 1 . The beauty and brutality of the piece … not song Epica makes pieces lol … is beyond anything I’ve heard anywhere in music Live the channel

[@themetalmuse]

I will! Thanks for the recommendation 👍

[@TheMateriaalkunde]

Simone and Floor are good friends, their combined contribution of Sancta Terra with the band and a full orchestra and choir is iconic. Also, Simone and Floor are part of the Ayreon family, where real rock operas are created. Watch Simone and Mark and Guus perform in Cosmic Fusion, a song from the Ayreon opera "Into the Electric Castle," where Simone plays the Indian contest candidate who is doomed because she adheres to death spirits, confusing them with the sun: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4u5qaKtlqiGq80si=teecqMsNtxyfqIy8 Another great song is the demise of the Egyptian candidate sung by Anneke van Giersbergen, the real Alma Mater of Dutch female fronted symphonic Metal, together with Marcela Bovio, expert in harmonics and Floor Jansen who sung this song in the early 2000s: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipPIk4Jrd7-cY6ssi=nl_gJaQkerCo6VbJ

[@LDBHX]

Welcome to pure Epicness Simone Simons and Floor are sisters in crime Epica rabbit hole is very important Definitely full support 🤘 Epica journey 🔥💜🎧💜🔥

[@themetalmuse]

Woohoo 🙌 new addiction to add to the list 😁

[@LDBHX]

@@themetalmuse OMEGA Alive Full concert stream Highly recommended 🔥🔥💜🤘💜🔥🔥

[@plantifulalexandra]

This band is AMAZING live. Finally saw them last year and damn - the show they put on for a FESTIVAL. They're absolute professionals and heavier than on the studio recordings. And Simone is GORGEOUS. I'd say Simone is very light and angelic (same as Sharon den Adel I'd say), Tarja is very dark and full, Floor is more... modern and metal?

[@themetalmuse]

🤘💯

[@omarjimenez8895]

I hope you continue reacting to Epica. Most people just react to this and her duet with Floor and that's it

[@themetalmuse]

There will be more!

[@aesbj9228]

Yes! Definitely a journey you should embark on! I'll tag along. 🤘😁🤘 I'd recommend anything from their Retrospect 2013 live show or from Omega Alive 2021.

[@themetalmuse]

Cheers 👍

[@troymetheny8805]

Simone has said in interviews that Floor was her inspiration to move from classical operatic singing to symphonic metal. They are great friends!

[@franshinlopen2166]

I am so fortunate to have one ticket to Amsterdam, and two Mexico City tickets. It will be my first time in Mexico, and almost surely my last time also.

[@wildylupous]

I had seen them in tiny Montpellier club in November 2008 during Chasing the Dragon.

[@robertocortez2124]

Welcome to the great band Epica, You will love the lyrics, music arrangement, and the masterful performance by the band, My favorite show is Retrospect 10th anniversary, i want to recommend a song from this show: Sancta Terra (feat. Floor Jansen), You will enjoy with the heavenly duet, and everything in this live show

[@berenicemendozarivera7799]

More Epica please!! ♥️

[@andreaswennberg9542]

Love the band, would love to see you explore more of them. EPICA - Design your universe (live Retrospect) would be my recommendation, that is with a full orchestra 😁.

[@themetalmuse]

I'll check it out! 😁😁😁

[@Dmitriy88S]

other songs from Zenith also great!

[@christophschmedes5975]

Simone start her singing by Epica with 17years now she is 39years and one of the best soprano in Metall i here Epica for 20years

[@theglanconer6463]

Ohhhh brilliant reaction. Love Epica (such nice people too (you just can see it on stage:). Which one to pick, pfff.. . perhaps ' Unleashed' ? Beautiful live orchestra. (At the same concert she also did a duet with Floor Jansen (her friend since college); Stabat Mater, it's just gorgeous. A metal crowd listening in total silence to a medieval hymn. Just... well. That's metal :) ! Cheers from the Low Countries and have a fantastic day ! (Ah, just listened to Delibes: Lakmé - Duo des fleurs . Didn't ring a bell, then I listened to it and saw a trillion movies floating before my eyes. beautiful song. Indeed it has quite some Simone-ish vibes :)

[@themetalmuse]

Totally right? She’d do a wonderful job as Lakme.

[@scottkenworthy5640]

Kingdom of Heaven Pt 3 from Omega Alive is my 'This is Epica.' go-to.

[@themetalmuse]

🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@MegaDog555]

sabaton epica and nightwish my top 3 bands epica kingdom of heaven pt 3

[@dac2007]

You should be on the journey, if you liked this one there's a good chance you'll love the rest of their music Epica is one of the most consistent bands out there, no holes in their discography Comparing with Nightwish which I see you are very much into, this is also considered symphonic metal but with a very different style, adding more heaviness to the music overall, the death metal growls (not all the songs, in this one is more prominent) and a lot of choir use The go to concerts for Epica are usually Retrospect anniversary show, Omega Alive livestream pandemic show (both are available full on YT) and there's some performances from other shows like Zenith, AFAS and Tilburg but they aren't full shows

[@NZWozza]

Welcome to Epica. They are all so very good. I’d recommend a song - but honestly, just pick anything live.

[@RoseForEverafter]

Welcome to the insane and amazing world of Epica!!!! Truly no more apt name for a band, because EPIC is the only word for their music. Yes, as they mentioned at the beginning, this was the last song of the night and it’s their typical show ender to really have some fun! Another concert staple is Beyond the Matrix, which also involves crowd participation! :D I’ve seen them in concert twice and the energy and joy they bring to stage is just unlike anyone else. You can tell they just love being together and doing this music. Simone is an incredibly versatile singer! You heard more of her classical tone here, but she has some real power too that’s surprising for how light and clear her voice sounds. She just has one of my favorite voices ever. I know you corrected yourself about saying Simone did a collab with Tarja, but you’ll like to know that she actually has sung with Floor-Floor was a guest for two songs during Epica’s Retrospect concert in 2013. Epica actually does tons of collabs-they and Apocalyptica have worked together on a few songs, Alyssa White-Gluz will be featured on Simone’s new solo album, and they have a whole album called The Alchemy Project which was about working with other metal bands/artists. Anyway, there’s tons to explore!!! it’s really an amazing group of musicians-most of the members have degrees in music theory/education and co-founder Mark Jansen also has a masters in psychology, contributing to the philosophical nature of many of their songs. All of the guys work on the compositions, while Mark and Simone split work on the lyrics. With that info, I’ll just leave you with a few of my personal favorites to recommend checking out: Unleashed - Retrospect 2013 (A show that’s *definitely* worth reacting to in full; it was performed with a live orchestra and choir!) Code of Life - Live at the AFAS Live (one of my favorites for showing off Simone’s talent and growth in recent years, cuz you’ve got it all-beautiful delicate runs, full rock belts, and soaring operatic highs) Rivers - Live at the AFAS Live (most gorgeous ballad in the world? Mayhaps) Cry for the Moon - Omega Alive (this one is special because it was their first song, and this particular version is from a 2022 online concert they did where they include a little throwback/reflection on their journey) The Obsessive Devotion - Pol’and’Rock 2023 (this one is a little more gritty and heavier on the growls, which I think you’ll enjoy since you liked Consign to Oblivion)

[@themetalmuse]

Perfect!!! I also love Alissa 😁

[@VerzoOchoa]

I recommend you the songs cry for the moon, unleashed and kingdom of heaven

[@jackjokers3533]

I have to recommend Epica Design your Universe from the Retrospect concert.... I can almost guarantee you will fall in love with that song

[@eddys.3524]

Dominique, You definitely ought to investigate Epica, it's awesome... Simone Simons ( Smoontje ) is one of the best singers in Symphonic Rock. Simone also did Classical work in cooperation with, yes you guessed, Floor Jansen.. (Stabat Mater Dolorosa) You really got to check that out too. Another great Dutch singer I can recommend is Dianne van Giersbergen ( not related to Anneke van Giersbergen, former singer in The Gathering) she is a former singer in Xandria a German Symphonic rock band, who also (like Floor and Simone) cooperated with Arjan Lucassen ( Ayreon ) in several productions. She now has a solo carreer..

[@MegaDog555]

🐕love me some Epica

[@geertjanssen8455]

Simone and Floor, her BFF, in Sancta Terra. And their classical tête á tête in Stabat Mater Dolorosa. You've got to check 'em out! ❤️

[@MrSh0110]

Welcome to Epica Dom! You’ve just discovered one of the finest hidden gems of the world’s art. From your reaction to this one, I’m certain Epica will blow your mind countless times. The musicality, creativity, diversity, consistency, beauty & brutality, lyrics, visuals, live performances.. everything is top notch. Enjoy your ride!

[@themetalmuse]

Your description is so perfect! 👌

[@MrSh0110]

@@themetalmuse thank you! Great to see we’re on the same page.. you after listening to a single song and me after knowing all their materials and the journey they did from 2002 till today :)

[@jacekjackson6903]

Epica is like Nightwish for adults. Symphonic metal it's not only Nightwish. Epica is ☯️ fantastic blend. Next stop Unleashed. Metal greatings 🤘

[@themetalmuse]

Can’t we like both without dismissing one? I love Nightwish too 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@HandleyR]

I am 56 which I think qualifies me as an adult and prefer Nightwish but think epica are epic 🙂🤟

[@jonathanratliff4780]

@@themetalmuse I think both bands are great I and everyone has their preference I like my music to be majestically beautiful but to often kick me in the face and Epica is the heavier darker brother to NW and lot of other symphonic bands, but I would have to say Simones tonality and perfect pitch voice has me 100%…. also if on relishes in the walls of sound of a live orchestra and choirs you will find that with Epica in several shows and some massive ones coming this fall also Within temptation will often do orchestras but Nightwish never has for some reason. Sadly when Nightwish lost Marco it was a big hole blown in their side. Enjoyed your reaction here I subscribe to your channel! 🤘🏻😎

[@jonathanratliff4780]

I am thankful to a lot of very good symphonic metal bands like Therion, Delian, visions of Atlantis, within temptation, Nightwish, and others that were my gateway eventually up to the greatness of Epica!! 🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@eckligt]

Also check out Tristania, Theatre Of Tragedy, Draconian and The 3rd And The Mortal, all broadly in the same style, with varying degrees of hardness.

[@jonathanratliff4780]

@@eckligt TY! Will do!! 🤘🏻

[@eckligt]

@@jonathanratliff4780 and Lumsk's first album, but that's folk metal, but SO heavy

[@themetalmuse]

👍👍

[@themetalmuse]

👍👍

[@MrFrikkenfrakken]

100% check this band out further I think you will enjoy what you discover.

[@themetalmuse]

I’m excited!

[@mehmetakifyalcn4334]

Epica is amazing🫡

[@moimeme8827]

I was in ! I was in ! A great birthday's gift from my friends ;). So, try from "live retrospect": Sancta Terra (feat Floor Jansen)" or "design your universe".

[@themetalmuse]

Added!

[@williamyates694]

This also makes me go back to Amaranth.

[@Cade1313]

I would recommend an older song by them; chasing the dragon live. I have been a fan of theirs since the beginning and they are one of my favorite bands

[@themetalmuse]

Good recommendation!

[@mariodriessen9740]

Oh, the number of times I wanted to shout “PLEASE, LISTEN TO EPICA!!!” 🤪 I KNEW you would love this! Welcome… 🥹

[@themetalmuse]

Hehehehe I’m slow but I get there in the end 😄

[@m.bbrendel2411]

sooooo great, check out Epica "beyond the matrix" live at the Zenith, you will love it!

[@themetalmuse]

I'll check it out!

[@PixTax]

Since you asked; in her native language her name is pronounced See-moh-nuh. See doesn't really care how you pronounce it though. Epica has a huge backlog, and you can't go wrong with your picks. Some of my favourites are 'The Essence of Silence'and 'Kingdom of Heaven of Heaven part 3'. Always look for live performances.

[@themetalmuse]

Thanks for the tip!

[@TheDwoolensnider]

Kingdom of Heaven Part 3, In All Concious, and Once Upon a Nightmare - (Omega Alive), Rivers and Code of Life - (AFAS LIVE), Unleashed and Design Your Universe - (Retrospect), Cry for the Moon - (Official Video). These are all must watch videos and even at that it is just scratching the surface.

[@themetalmuse]

😀😀😀

[@PittDaddy]

As you figured out, this was the last song. It is their usual closer. If you want hard, Kingdom of Heaven, Part 1 and Part 3 from the Omega Alive virtual concert are the easy to go. To see Simone's voice in it's ultimate beauty, listen to Rivers ft Apocalyptica at the AFAS concert.

[@themetalmuse]

Thanks for the advice. I’m seeing apocalyptica this year.

[@williamyates694]

I love youre baxter mention lol. I also love your music reactions. You bring a bit of deprh that we all need. I hope your well. We love. Ya. Take care of your loved ones! You're awesome. 🍻🤟👏

[@astral7080]

Completly trancendental, avatars. and the godess Simone

[@VeljkoNikolic-is5px]

For Flower Duet you should listen, among others, Amira Willighagen.

[@themetalmuse]

Thank you I will! Love the flower duet. Sumi Jo is amazing and Katherine Jenkins.

[@wally837]

I have been a metalhead since the mid to late 80's. I did not discover symphonic metal till about 10 years ago. It has become one of my favorite sub-genres of metal. IMHO Epica is the best example of this sub-genre, followed closely by Nightwish. The only advantage Nightwish has is Floor/Tarja, but I like the overall composition and harsh vocals of Epica better.

[@themetalmuse]

Well put! I can’t wait to explore them more.

[@stefanstock953]

greetings and love from Germany again. 💚 It's been a while since I've been here. It's been a tough few weeks for you, I know. Seeing you again, even with your beautiful smile on your face, warms my heart. I think 'Sad people have the most beautiful smiles because they know what happiness means'. 'Memories are important because sometimes there is nothing else left.' I wish you a peaceful and wonderful weekend, my dear & stay safe 🌻

[@themetalmuse]

Wow that’s so poignant and true. 🥲

[@stefanstock953]

@@themetalmuse awe, you like it. That is nice. I wasn't entirely sure about it, even though I speak from self experience. I do care bout you, MyLady

[@DemonicTrucker]

‘Run for a fall’ live at paradiso and ‘Cry for the moon’ also live from paradiso should be next to check out

[@themetalmuse]

👌👌👌

[@eckligt]

Great to see you finally getting into Epica, and kudos for going in completely blank! I think you picked the exact right song to start with, it's one of Epica's heaviest and gives the growling its due place in the limelight, with Simone walking off stage for a short break (probably to turn on the tea kettle, since this is the last song of the set). What a time to go into this band, as Simone launched her solo project just two days ago. You could also plan for a reaction to her song "Aeterna". But when it comes to Epica-proper, I think you in particular would like some of Epica's more proggy songs, in particular "The Skeleton Key" and "Kingdom of Heaven" (parts 1 and 3). All three of these songs were performed during Epica's "Omega Alive" concert, which was their pandemic project, a concert without an audience. The videos from that set look like music videos, but are in fact the actual performances. The other main concert to look out for recordings from was their 10th anniversary show in 2013, dubbed "Retrospect", a 3-hour extravaganza with a full orhcestra and choir on stage. From that show, "Unleashed", "Chasing the Dragon", "Monopoly on Truth" and "Design your Universe" are great songs to react to. Please make sure to find HD videos, as some of the ones floating around on KZbin are not. Obviously, there will never be a dearth of material to listen to with a band that has put out 8, soon 9, albums across 21 years. This little comment cannot do the band justice. PS: I like your jacket.

[@themetalmuse]

Thank you for the tips! And it’s a dress 😁

[@aleksastojanovic-yq9oh]

Loved the reaction! If you want you can react to EPICA + FLOOR in the song "Sancta Terra" :D (Simone is 3months pregnant there too XD)

[@Razgriz218]

I don't know a lot of Epica songs but I knew this one and it's a very, very good song! Would be cool if you did some more of their songs so I can enjoy them with you. But since you said you can appreciate a good growl, you should put this song on your to do list as well. You will love it! (I think haha) It's a song by Wintersun and it's called 'Time' and then the (TIME I Live Rehearsals At Sonic Pump Studios) REMASTER version. Also pretty damn Epic(a)! 😁

[@themetalmuse]

👍👍

[@eddiesteele7108]

Yes, more Epica please! You won’t regret it.

[@themetalmuse]

No doubt!!

[@eddiesteele7108]

@@themetalmuse I just recently discovered them too thanks to channels like this. Haha, color me obsessed. Enjoy the journey!!

[@sonjaschweinsberger1637]

more Epica ...... Simone and Floor together ? Epica - Sancta Terra (feat Floor Jansen) Live Retrospect show kzbin.info/www/bejne/mamVY4yrn5ehsMk

[@themetalmuse]

🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@_666_Sorrow]

Nice reaction. You should check out Within Temptation as well. You have done Epica and Nightwish. Within Temptation has Sharon den adel as the kead singer snd she is also dutch. I think there is something in the water over ther fkr these women to sing so beautifully. . They have atleast 5 or 6 great singers. Sharon wasnt trained like the others. Floor,Simone,Charlotte, Tarja are all trained. Anneke van giersbergen wasnt trained in opera. Shes another fantastic singer.. Within Temptation start with Ice Queen and also Angels. Sharon does songs with Tarja and Anneke as well. Theatre of tragedy is also another band you should check out.

[@themetalmuse]

👍 good idea

[@sonet1978]

..I think Lady Simone is much closer to Lady Floor, than Lady Tarja...they are such a beautiful persons..let's love a rock'n'rool..❤

[@themetalmuse]

Rock on!

[@SteveCoronado2]

Simone and Floor from Nightwish are actually friends and do a sing together called Sancta Terra. It’s live as well and a must see 🤘🏻🔥💥🙏🏻💯 Great to see you again Dom 🤗

[@themetalmuse]

Thanks for the info! I’m going to check that out.

[@hiufernando7340]

Great reaction. Anyway, can i request your reaction to superb band from japan? The band is call "Lovebites" They all The Beautiful Queens Metal band right now in the earth. They are really really World class musicians. Phenomenal. And they have a lot die hard fans too. The song is "Set the world on fire" Hope you check out, and can enjoy it too. Big thanks🙏

[@calanor4130]

Simone's first name is pronounced a bit like "see-moh-neh", but she's fine with how you pronounced it. 🙂 Thanks for checking out this superb band, one of symphonic metal's absolute giants!

[@aegars]

heres Simone herself pronouncing her name kzbin.info/www/bejne/oF7bY6Rvm9qnodEsi=cjZHbzRM4Kyh7cCJ&t=14

[@themetalmuse]

🥳🥳🥳🥳

[@CyberBeep_kenshi]

the word Epic is basically a watered down version of Epica ;)

[@pauloverbeeke2352]

Nice to begin with to get an idee from Ayreon. :::: Ayreon - The Day That The World Breaks Down (01011001 - Live Beneath The Waves) ::::: And there's a lot more ! Read something about Ayreon first to get some back round information ! because there's a storyline ! This is a song of te last show ! In other song's you will also see Floor.

[@jdm188]

If you want a journey check out Kingdom of heaven part 1 (omega alive)

[@MegaDog555]

oh yeah the show with epica sancta terra live with Floor

[@pauloverbeeke2352]

This one: Epica - Sancta Terra (feat Floor Jansen) Live Retrospect show. Also Nice but very special: EPICA - Stabat Mater Dolorosa w/Floor Jansen (Retrospect 10th Anniversary DVD I)

[@jonathanratliff4780]

Enuf Floor…. this is the awesomeness of Epica focus here please mercy

[@DerHerr-ni2wr]

🤘🤘🤘

[@themetalmuse]

😎😎🤩🤩🤩

[@user-si4fi1iw4x]

Once Upon a Nightmare ( Omega Alive }

[@themetalmuse]

👍

[@_666_Sorrow]

You should do a reaction to Within Temptation and Sharon Den Adel's vocals. She has no classical training basically self taught and a fashion designer. She makes her own clothes for her performances. Start with Ice queen then Angels. Now back to Epica. Someone mentioned Unleashed. Yes a great song as well as Sensorium. Kingdom of Heaven parts 1-3. Yes there are three different chapters. After that listen to Sancta Terra with Floor Jansen. Finally, give Sirens of blood and water a listen featuring Charlotte Qessels and Myrkur. Lastly, give a band called Theatre of Tragedy a listen. Liv Kristine is amazing in her own right. They do two songs that i will put a link here. One called Cassandra thats in english and the other is Der Tanz Der Schatten thats sung in German. Keep rocking. Enjoyed your reviews. Kool ass cat you have, I'm a cat guy myself lol. Anyways heres the link.. enjoy.. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIG2p6egZq2Barssi=tgawXFGNqCs5tMV1

[@marcogruble5408]

Hi there beautiful soul, Thank you for this reaction. First you were very much into Nightwish, one of my absolute favorite bands, Now you are reaction to my other absolute favorite band, Epica. I am glad you liked it. I will help you a little with some recommendations, feel free to use them, or not. Regarding Simone sing with another female vocalist, then you could see Sancta Terra, (kzbin.info/www/bejne/mamVY4yrn5ehsMk) it is a live concert for their 10th anniversary, with a guest singer you know....Floor. From the same concert is another great song, Design Your Universe (kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5_Pgatjfaqjebc), also with the growls of Mark Jansen. If you really want to jump back in time, then there is 18 year old Simone (and also the rest is young) with Cry For The Moon (kzbin.info/www/bejne/aKOkd4Wkls16qrs), also with growls from Mark. Something more recent showcasing the vocals of Simone would be Once Upon A Nightmare (kzbin.info/www/bejne/paTIg32MZc54gNU), no growls, but very beautiful. If you want to hear something with tissues next to the microphone, then Tides Of Time (kzbin.info/www/bejne/g3ezn2Sie6mfr6c) is a good one, it is written for the grandmother of Mark when she past away. All the texts of Epica have deeper meaning, listen to The Final Lullaby (kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5qtZqVumLOcp5o) a cooperation with the artist Shining. The bassist, Rob van de Lee also write songs, the man with the long hair, beard and tattoo's wrote this one, Rivers (kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5SveJqcrrSgkKc). Back to some more growling, also more recent is Kingdom Of Heaven Part 3 (kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJWldImDeZ2Hn68), this a live concert during COVID lockdown, so no audience. Another cooperation with other artists is Sirens Of Blood And Water (kzbin.info/www/bejne/qaeqgmCnbsyrbJo), three beautiful woman where right fit in. Last suggest from me would be Code Of Life (kzbin.info/www/bejne/n2acaKNnZtZ2h9E), also with some growls, but with an eastern vibe. I think enough to react to, if you want of course, the choice is yours.

[@themetalmuse]

Thank you!!!🙏

[@eddybulk1992]

It is not Tarra but Tarja(Tarya)greetings from The Netherlands

[@pauloverbeeke2352]

Nice next song from Epica ? Do: EPICA - Kingdom of Heaven Pt 3 - (ΩMEGA ALIVE) (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

[@johan7170]

Welcome ot your Epica Journey A lot of people here will tell you about the songs that are commonly recommended for such a journey so I'm gonna focus on a songs that are great but not as often recommended : Epica - Run for a Fall, live à Paradiso 2006 : kzbin.info/www/bejne/h2imlJqPbZysh7M It's a 2006 performance so the band memebers are much younger (and some have changed).

[@themetalmuse]

Thank you for the recommendation!

[@williamyates694]

We are loving Baxter!!! I know you will be great with him. But we love YOU too ok. Take care out there. I have a question. Do you prefer Floor or others? 🍻🤟

[@themetalmuse]

I am not a person of black and white or this over that. Sure I have strong preferences but beauty doesn’t have one set standard for me. I don’t think I’d ever compare Floor to Simone in the sense I hear them on different wave lengths. However I’m neurodivergent so I can’t articulate the difference correctly. Words and sounds resonate in different parts of my brain, 🧠 if that makes sense and their sounds go to different parts. Like I couldnt compare Maria Callas to Alissa White Glutz, both are super talented but light up different parts of the brain for me. 😁🤣😂

[@williamyates694]

@@themetalmuse Gotcha. I get it!!! Thanks for answering articulately. 🤟🍻

[@TheReuby667]

Sancta Terra next 🤞

[@soloridertv]

You pronounced "Wacken" properly so you pass the metalhead test. Nice video! Off to watch some of your other videos.

[@themetalmuse]

🤣🤣🤣 got quite a few German friends who would promptly disown me if I said it wrong

[@notvochkin]

How about Simone (Epica) and Floor singing Stabat Mater Dolorosa kzbin.info/www/bejne/pJnXgIKIjrl6rpo for a little opera or Sancta Terra kzbin.info/www/bejne/mamVY4yrn5ehsMk for something a little more metal

[@Doppeldropper]

... and also "Sweet Curse" 🤘😊👍 kzbin.info/www/bejne/rp68q39_d5uCoLcfeature=shared

[@themetalmuse]

Thank you 🙏

[@noneofyerbeeswax8194]

Yes please! I can see the hardcore Epicans getting butthurt already.😂

[@jonathanratliff4780]

@@noneofyerbeeswax8194what do u mean? 🤷‍♂️

[@SokolRock]

@@jonathanratliff4780 He is a troll who is trying to stir up a feud between Nightwish and Epica fans by convincing everyone that most Epica fans hate Floor Jansen.