ROADIE REACTIONS | "Epica - Consign to Oblivion (Live)" | [FIRST TIME EVER LISTENING]

[@smp7077]

If you like Epica and Nightwish..... Sancta Terra from retrospect show

[@GenDesperado]

great suggestion

[@cyberjarl]

Seconded (thirded?)

[@honooryu5374]

Oh he'll die if he does that. Good suggestion.

[@jimborumable]

Absolutely...Will be very entertaining :)

[@pietercommandeur6302]

he might lose his kewl with sancta terra

[@MilesDashing]

One of the (many) things I like about Tank is his authenticity, and that really comes across in this reaction.

[@ferrenberg]

Fun thing this song isn't even one of their heaviest. Epica is hands-down one of the most heavy symphonic metal bands, sometimes they're borderline death metal. Check more of them!

[@LunaBianca1805]

Definitely :) They got a lot heavier over the course of the past 4 to 5 albums. Cosign to oblivion is definitely awesome still, though.

[@ChuuniKaede]

I'd love to see him react to The Second Stone.

[@Kuroo21]

Yes. Epica is my favorite symphonic metal band. I love the heavy sound

[@Sarcasticron]

I can't think of anyone other band with a Tarja-esque lead vocalist that is this consistently heavy. Ex Libris maybe comes close, but I would classify them as progressive metal, not symphonic.

[@ferrenberg]

@@Sarcasticron tbh, I can only think about the usual suspects: After Forever and Mayan. Maybe some Trail of Tears albums too or the second Tristania album

[@erwindegroot8760]

I guess it's now time for Sancta Terra from the Live Retrospect Show with Simone and Floor Jansen.

[@evacody1249]

No there are better live Epica songs for him to react to such as Cry for the Moon, Kingdom of Heaven, etc.

[@pacmanpakkas]

@@evacody1249 not better songs, they are just as good :) just less reacted to

[@honooryu5374]

Yes this has to happen

[@nancylee2601]

Oh yes! While it's not my favourite Epica's song, I so love the energy on that one and I'm very curious on Tank's opinion on it!

[@daanvandee257]

You are going to love Epica - Kingdom of heaven. That's another of their masterpieces.

[@ozzman123]

I love the part 2 called Quantum Enigma as well,

[@rolsen1304]

@@ozzman123 And now we have an epic part 3!

[@jonkilowatt4442]

Kingdom of Heaven you definately need to check out, like John Williams meets metal

[@papparocket]

Fun fact, when they were studying music at university Floor and Simone were flatmates. The founder of Epica, Mark Jansen (no relation to Floor, though Floor has a sister Irene who works on Ayreon projects and is lead singer of the band Karma) formed the band After Forever in '95. In '97 Floor joined After Forever. In 2002 Mark left to form Epica with Simone. Floor stayed with After Forever to 2009 when the band broke up. Floor went on to form ReVamp which toured with Epica in 2010. Then Floor had some serious health issues and took over a year off to heal. When she was healed ReVamp went to work on a second album and it was nearly finished, but it was put on hold in October 2012 while Floor stepped in to sing with Nightwish to replace Anette Olzon who was fired in the middle of the Imaginaerum world tour (leading to the famous "Floor, can you learn the setlist in 48 hours before the next concert?" request from Tuomas). ReVamp finished their second album after the Nightwish tour was completed, but it was disbanded a year later in October 2013 when it was announced that Floor was joining Nightwish as a permanent member. And thus ends our history lesson of the small highly interconnected world of Euro gothic and symphonic metal.

[@Sonofhroft]

We need f..g metal sitcom with real voices 😂

[@taynarathais]

Simone wasnt the first option formed by Mark named Sahara dust, and they changed to epica thanks to kamelot(english is not my first language)

[@felipecampos3045]

oh man, you should hear Epica playing Design your universe Live. Chills every time

[@ARetiredPirate]

Definitely! Amazing song and lots of guitars for your facts in the beginning... Especially the live "retrospect" 10 year anniversary show is amazing, almost any song of that is worth commenting on, best show I have seen.

[@AlexA-lz3em]

@@ARetiredPirate Heck yeah

[@dac2007]

@@ARetiredPirate I have requested Chase to do the whole Retrospect show song by song, and I would do the same with Tank, probably not gonna happen since they would rather just go for the biggest sings directly, but I agree with you it's an amazing show worth watching entirely.

[@davidderricott3968]

Epica Retrospect was my introduction to symphonic metal, and remains at the top of my list for most epic concert ever.

[@patrickschardt7724]

That is one of my favorite Epica songs

[@zealeus]

You mention, "It looks like they're having fun!" I saw them (with Sabaton) in Atlanta this week, and that was part of what blew me away that you don't get from this video - it was evident from their showmanship and goofing around with each other on stage that they were having a blast and enjoy playing together! Just constant little interactions with the other band mates. That stage presence and feeling like the band actually enjoys playing together really adds to the feel of the show. And as you mention at the end - Epica and Sabaton totally should be playing on a bigger stage, but it's also fun to have a more intimate stage!

[@TankTheTech]

Yup, saw them in Nashville the day before the Atlanta gig, and it was the same. They look like they have so much fun together on stage.

[@Sarcasticron]

@@TankTheTech So glad you finally got to see them!

[@Sarcasticron]

When I watched their 20th anniversary livestream with my girlfriend, who had played a lot of small gigs with a small-town band when she was younger, she commented that Epica seems to have an unusually loving relationship with their fans. This made me think about how the 20th anniversary show was almost the opposite of Retrospect; it was very laid-back and casual. Kinda had the vibe of the band having an anniversary party with their friends, where they also played songs. I remember some dude in a comment complaining that Simone was "low-energy," and I think this was because, after 20 years of success, and some fans at the show who've been with them for 20 years, and were at their very first gig, the band felt like they were among friends, and didn't have anything to prove. To me it felt genuine, even intimate. Simone was "performing" during the songs, but talking in between them, she was just being herself.

[@randy13boston]

Small stage in Boston when I saw them and they sounded great and were definitely having a blast.

[@Alithia451]

Another fun fact: Simone likes anime, that is why they did Epica vs Attack on Titan.

[@TankTheTech]

Nice!

[@helenahey]

@@nicod1361 He has dedicated Wednesdays on this channel just for Nightwish! 😊

[@forkless]

@@nicod1361 I'm not quite sure how you equate frequency with enthusiasm. Personally I prefer a bit of longevity and variation.

[@TankTheTech]

So what are you saying, I should be doing Nightwish every single day and nothing else?

[@paisa20]

@@TankTheTech lol, i love your great reactions anyway

[@AweHitero]

since we're at it.. how 'bout "Kamelot ft. Simone Simons - The Haunting live at Norway (2006) ᴴᴰ"? =P

[@rocioiribe5841]

That was my introduction to Epica. And that live DVD is flawless!

[@AweHitero]

Rocio Iribe indeed, that concert was pure Legend =)

[@yssanne24601]

Omg pleeeeease! I need Roy-era Kamelot here so badly!

[@AweHitero]

Dregoth lucky you =)

[@lagiacrosm87]

Watch later remainder

[@Antonio-tn9cl]

Another great Ducht symphic metal band!!! Simone and Floor Jansen are good friends and you should check Sancta Terra Feat.F.J.....what a ride!!!

[@mannistef]

For sure

[@evacody1249]

No there are far better songs then that.

[@Neocoolzero]

@@evacody1249 considering he's a fan of Floor this is a very good sugestion, to see this 2 amazing singers together

[@alanfoster6589]

@@Neocoolzero Xena and Gabrielle.

[@patrickshelley09]

@@Neocoolzero If it's about the two of them showing off their skills together, Stabat Mater is a better choice. But why does Epic have to be tied to Floor? They stand on their own just fine. If he wants to see them together down the line, that's fine. But let him get a good understanding of what Epica is truly capable of on their own, first. KoH, DYU, Fools of Damnation, Once Upon a Nightmare, Facade of Reality, Serenade of Self Destruction etc are all much better examples of what Epica is, rather than Sancta Terra which is a middle of the road Epica song.

[@VIKINGKING95]

Was just listening to EPICA awesome band. You would love the kingdoms of heaven part 1 and 2 although it would be like a 40 minute reaction but well worth it Also congrats on 17k well deserved

[@TankTheTech]

Thank you!

[@maximus_siberius]

And part 3 is coming on a new album, yay!

[@nimedhel09]

@@maximus_siberius Yes! I'm way too excited for that :o

[@maximus_siberius]

Haha... Judging by your expression on this preview, these guys exceeded your expectations:) Now that you understand what to expect from this band, I hope Epica will be a regular on your channel. I had a privilege to listen to their music since the very first album and attended their shows twice. I will not make any suggestions because you can't go wrong with anything by this EPIC(a) band.

[@MadameChristie]

Now you HAVE to look at their live performance of Sancta Terra with Floor from Nightwish XD

[@Z_TPI]

At the live retrospect show^

[@patrickshelley09]

There are much better Epica songs to get to first and much better songs from that concert. Epica doesn't need Floor, they can stand on their own.

[@everett880]

Simone was pregnant there and Floor stole the show, doesn't do justice to Epica. I'd rather see Tank does Sancta Terra live at Summerbreeze 2017 because Simone was killing it there solo and Tank can see the gear they're using very clearly, especially Coen's curving keyboard.

[@Nitlda]

@@patrickshelley09 I'm so sick and tired of these people trying to push Nightwish and Floor over everything... Not sure if they realise how annoying they sound, like no other band matter unless Goddess Floor graces them with her presence. Barely any of them would ever recommend Epica if they hadn't featured Floor. Just look at the other reaction videos from any channel really, only Sancta Terra requests and then they're back to more Nightwish recommendations. They don't care about Epica, it's just a fancy Floor backup band with an orchestra to them. I stopped listening to Nightwish a while ago already, but these people really don't make me want to go back to the band. Nothing against Nightwish or Floor personally, just the overly obsessed "fans" 's repulsive and irritating behaviour.

[@patrickshelley09]

@@Nitlda Completely agree, that's why I made my comment. I do still listen to NW and think Floor is amazing. But you never heard anyone recommend Sancta Terra as one of Epica's top songs before the Floor duet. And there's good reason for that. It's not even in the top half of their songs. Regarding NW, I think their last two albums have been their weakest since Angels Fall First. Not that it's all bad, but for the most part it's mediocre at best, by their standards.

[@Cosmos_Titan]

Do I hear "I Want My Tears Back" in the background?🤭 Hahaha Epica is Nightwish's sinister sister.🤘🏼😁

[@Turambar88]

I loved your reaction at the beginning. "Did she just tell them to do a wall of death?"

[@fbjsfc]

"design your universe" one of their greatests...

[@OrpheusKrynn]

But the whole album! Their best so far in my opinion.

[@vigridr7614]

No one does symphonic like Epica. Not to say they are better than anyone else or vice versa, but they're completely different from other bands in the genre. Genuinely nice people too, I live in a tiny country in Europe and they had a gig here in 2004 barely 6 months after they released their first album or something, 200 ish people attended, small club, they hung out with pretty much anyone that wanted to just chill after the show. Few months later they come to a spot where some friends and myself knew the owners so we were there early - band was still super approachable and down to earth, talked a bunch and showed them around a bit, ever since then they whitelist all 5 of us for backstage and hook us up with tickets no matter how big the show is or where in the country it is. Fast forward to 2012, they played a 20000 person venue. 2016, headlining one of our biggest festivals alongside Kreator and Carcass. They deserve all the success they see, anywhere they see it. Hopefully the same trend we had here (and in Europe in general) continues on in the US. Props to you for recognising that, great video!

[@Leishtek]

It's so fun to watch all these reactors who have been spoon fed Nightwish and Within Temptation and maybe even Sancta Terra get run over by the Epica train. Not that NW or WT is bad at all, but Epica truly brings THE HEAVY like no other.

[@stevehill9167]

I love how Epica mix really heavy sounds that border on death metal with the symphonic sound and the operatic style, then add orchestral styles and choirs to the mix. At times they have a very cinematic sound too, absolutely amazing. 🤘🏻🙂

[@LordSummerisle100]

Funny how Rob van der Loo and his replacement in Delain, Otto Schimmelpennick both now play Dingwall bassses. Otto saying he bought a Dingwall second hand while touring Canada, before getting getting them to build him a custom bass. With you loving the symphonic metal of Epica and Nightwish - check out Delain and Within Temptation.

[@cranboogie]

KINGDOM OF HEAVEN! Your insight on the gear they use is just awesome by the way. You’re the first one who pointed it out. Thanks!

[@curtthomas7499]

I agree about these groups needing to be playing in large arenas in the US. I have seen Nightwish with Kamelot and Nightwih with Delain (should check them out) at the Diamond Ballroom in Oklahoma City - Nothing like watching an Epic Symphonic Metal Band in a dinky venue with portraits of Hank Williams, Buck Owens, Loretta Lynn on the walls - There's culture shock for you.

[@TankTheTech]

The Diamond?! Jesus. That’s almost insulting. Hahahaha

[@thehunterstruck]

RIGHT?!?!?!?!?! They would sell areans out in Oklahoma, if 5FDP can do it Nightwish and Epica cam do it!!

[@PittDaddy]

I'm looking back to see how far you've come. Seems hard to believe it's been four years. We were all just being introduced to these amazing artists. I still listen to Epica almost every day since learning about them with you and Chase and Elizabeth. Thank you.

[@juliettemcgee9055]

You know it's going to be epic when his hat's gone off. Fun fact: Coen the keyboardist actually plays the first few notes of La Marseillaise (the national anthem of France) at around almost 5-minute mark of the video. C'est magnifique!

[@TankTheTech]

I heard it. Haha

[@everett880]

@TankTheTech When I first saw this live video, that bit was kinda odd to me because it wasn’t featured in the studio version, yet sounds familiar. How cool of them to pay homage to 🇫🇷 and their fans there.

[@nightwishlover8913]

@@TankTheTech You and Chase are the only two reactors to notice the Marseillaise. Kudos!

[@Brombit]

I listened to this anthem now and couldn't find this melody :(

[@nightwishlover8913]

@@Brombit 08.57

[@slash-1971]

I'm almost jealous that you're going to listen to all these incredible Epica songs for the first time. Be prepared for some mind blowing epic songs! 🤘

[@DennisVlaanderen]

I know this video is quite old, but when this tour was happening, this show was on the forefront of Lighting tech as well. You can see a couple of Pyramid like structures on stage which kind of look like deco since they aren't used during this song. But they're actually laser-units by MinuitUne. They are full RGB lasers which refractiong hoods that channel the light rather than using oscillating mirrors like traditional laser units. The effects of these things are quite crazy looking when used in large scales. On top of that, this was one of the first tours to bring along ClayPaky A.leda BEye fixtures. They're wash-light moving-heads, but they have refractive lenses over every single LED. Which apart from zooming can actually also rotate individually per single lens. The K20 model used here, when used to their fullest extent, can only be used in groups of 4 per DMX universe before running out of channels. Where usually running anywhere between 20 and 200 fixtures per universe is quite normal.

[@Soviet_Saguaro]

My favorite band and the best concert I've ever been to. I can honestly recommend their entire discography because it's all fantastic

[@ladislaualbert2807]

Watching this reaction again- so good, hope you really enjoyed your Epica/Sabaton show!!! I really had a great time in TX and got my pic with Mark Jansen as he happened to walk through crown after the Epica setlist!!!

[@Journeyman09]

But you also didnt noticed the moving keyboard which Coen uses🤣🙈🤘🏻

[@christophersims3319]

Epica is the real deal live. They even pull off festivals in the day with no setup time. Seen them in Vegas with 150 people and festivals with 80 thousand, they pull it off the same. They are more of band than Nightwish, Four song writers. Where Nightwish is one person’s vision.

[@davidcoyne7291]

Its not Night Wish V Epica surely! its not a competition, we can enjoy them both.

[@dandyprime5338]

Epica is my favorite band and they are the most successful Dutch metal band in the world today. They are working on their 8th studio album right now. This song is the title track from their second album, released in 2005. Every Epica album has a title track and they are usually the most complex and lengthy songs on the album, with each being at least 10 minutes long. I recommend "Victims of Contingency", "Storm the Sorrow", "Universal Death Squad", and "Edge of the Blade". Thanks for checking them out, Tank!

[@hboplus1]

Amazing reaction, congrats. I can't stop headbanging this song too.

[@stevekoelliker6764]

Mark Jansen was in Floor Jansen’s first band I believe. He’s no relation to her. Floor and Simone are friends and Floor joined them for a live performance. Epica- Sancta Terra (feat Floor Jansen) Live Retrospect show. You should check it out. Awesome.

[@razzledazzleist]

Fun fact: the band name was inspired by a Kamelot album. Simone has sung with Kamelot (check out The Haunting with their first vocalist), and is married to Oliver Palotai, the keyboardist. I highly recommend Kamelot as a band, lots of great songs, and 2 'eras' - with Roy Khan as the vocalist and Tommy Karevik (who is featured on Ayreon material). Keeping with the Ayreon connection, I'd recommend Oceans of Slumber, the singer Cammie plays the lead female role in the upcoming Ayreon project Transitus (opposite Tommy from Kamelot). Have a listen to The Banished Heart, it's also highly recommended by a certain Mr Arjen Luccassen

[@nikolaforro8597]

The name of Ad Infinitum was also inspired by Kamelot, particularly by their song March of Mephisto. Also a band worth checking out :)

[@OrpheusKrynn]

Good request! Kamelot is awesome band too :)

[@Ericboy114558]

I recommend "Epica - The Essence Of Silence (OFFICIAL LIVE VIDEO) " for another great live perfomance from these guys! Loving your reactions!

[@marielaoquendorodriguez670]

Yessss

[@0rthogonal]

That live performance is so good, completely over shadows the studio recording. Incredible.

[@Hydrangea1971]

Your face, the first few notes of the song :D ...just Priceless!! Yes...they can be heavy like that. Their concerts are sooo great. I've been several times, never been disappointed! Heavy yet refined at the same time. Great lyrics and arragements too. Together with Nightwish, they are my favourite bands in this genre. Thanks for your reaction!

[@evaDrepuS]

Is nice to see more people reacting that appreciate the music and musicians, and don't just make shock or OMG Floor videos. You, Chase, Elizabeth @ The Charismatic Voice etc are the best ones to watch hands down.

[@TankTheTech]

Thanks a ton, man!

[@christophergehrke417]

Tank...kingdom of heaven pt3 is an absolute must!!!!! Soon please lol

[@piderman871]

Wintersun: Finnish Nightwish: Finnish + Dutch Epica: Dutch I'm starting to see a pattern ;)

[@onearthonelegion]

Epica: dutch / belgian Nightwish: finnish, dutch, english

[@sjeses]

Ayreon: Dutch (well, the masterminds of it)

[@onearthonelegion]

Metal is borderless gathering

[@olgahein4384]

@@sjeses You mean to say: Ayreon: Dutch + whatever comes his way while working on a new album.

[@sjeses]

@@olgahein4384 or Ayreon: earthlings from everywhere

[@lowcivic]

I got to see Epica a few years ago, and even though their shows here in the states are mostly smaller venues, the energy is still through the roof, just like with Nightwish. I'm loving the background that you and Chase are giving to the bands, the music, and the stage setups. You two are just awesome.

[@markfrancis6886]

I would leave Sancta Terra for a bit, great though it is. For more power and epic(yes, really) do kingdom of heaven. Design Your Universe is awesome as well. For a masterclass in vocals try Chasing the Dragon and if you want to cry do Tides of Time or Once upon a Nightmare. They have it all. If you do Sancta Terra follow it up with Stabat Matar Dolorosa from the same show, because that is beyond comprehension

[@Boerke]

I loved Chase's reaction to this one... So great that yours is just a day later. This definitely is one band to discover more of. Good luck, but most importantly, have fun on your EPICAL journey man!

[@sethbooze5954]

Epica is so dope! I love them. Arien is one of the coolest drummers I've ever seen.

[@sethbooze5954]

This band is one of my original Big 3: Nightwish, Epica, and Kamelot. They're so god damn good. Epica should most definitely be in am Arena. They need to have Epica and Nightwish play at Red Rocks here in Denver.

[@everett880]

Here for the Poison Ivy 🌹♥️

[@ThumperE23]

I saw them do this song, right down to the wall of death a few years back. It was the perfect storm, New York City at the Playstation Theater, on the last night of their North American Tour, they even had a few techs on stage moshing.

[@TankTheTech]

Hahahahaha. Wild. I’ve been in that room many times so I can imagine how nuts it was.

[@Zoza15]

Epica has a new album in the making too!.

[@spaceknave]

Hi, as to your comment about the venue size comparison from US to Europe, I saw Epica and Kamelot together in a very mid sized club in St. Paul, Minnesota, nothing very big. This was at least ten years ago so they were not as well known as they are now, but still... Amazingly they got the sound balanced just perfectly for the orchestral parts AND the guitar and rock band parts to be equally clear, it was one of the best shows I've ever seen, and I'm a middle aged geezer who has seen plenty.

[@tombland3779]

I saw epica at download festival in england and they were fantastic. I loved when the keyboardist skates around on his keyboard

[@ruy3467]

Their lyrics are very well thought and deep. Definitely worth reading them before or after you listen the songs. Great reaction!

[@PanDeSal.28]

Time to see design your universe!!

[@Aurinkohirvi]

Hah, hah, oh darn, your buddy reacting day earlier! Well, revenge will be sweet. Yeah this was way cool. A lot more harsh vocals than I expected. Epica is in my list of get to know bands, so very nice if I see you react them more. Man, the ending was so beautiful with that multiple voice singing and Simone rising above them male vocals! Actually I was hoping earlier when there was just harsh male vocals, that she would sing in the background, at least some of the time. My first hearing of this epic song, needs a few more listening. 👍👍👍👍

[@deniserodriguez7441]

As much as I enjoy the headbanging, watching you just stare in awe as they play and just absorb the music...priceless.

[@jamiestout142]

You should check out Design your universe live at their retrospect concert it has a choir and orchestra on stage

[@bloomsiee8867]

the two vocalists its like an angel and a demon singing together holy shit

[@Ggbvghxrujnlo]

Epica ,Nightwish,Within Temptation and Lacuna Coil

[@2112bigd]

I saw them open for Sabaton a few weeks ago at a large-ish club. I had never heard of them before that night but I was quite impressed with their set. Would definitely see them again if they play within an hour of me.

[@mikkolaine4883]

Fun fact from myself: I got known to Epica in the same day that I saw Nightwish live for the first time. Epica was the opening act, then played Amorphis and Nightwish had the main event.

[@DoraFauszt]

Such a funny coincidence!! I had the same experience! It was March 5th 2008 in Budapest! My first ever Nightwish concert. After the concert there were some people handing out flyers promoting the new Epica album and I gave it a shot. The rest is history, I am a total fan for 14 years now!

[@Sarcasticron]

Everyone reading your comment is SO jealous 😀

[@mikkolaine4883]

@@Sarcasticron even funnier I wasn't sold at that experience coz I was not a fan of growls back then in 2008. Two years later I saw Design Your Universe in the shop and I had the change to listen to it first before purhasingI gave it the shot and bought it. It took a bit to grt used to the growls but at this day it is one my favorites bu Epica 😁

[@darklocksly3615]

Another great reaction, Enjoyed it while having dinner. ps: Your Aryeon reaction was really top notch, Seeing someone put in the work to research..... well done.

[@TankTheTech]

Thanks a ton!

[@AntonNidhoggr]

True. Arjen actually shared it on Facebook, so what's why I'm here!

[@wojciechpedzich4773]

After several of your videos, I watch them not only for the reactions, but also for your background stuff, where you are very knowledgeable - thanks, Tank!

[@TankTheTech]

Thank you!

[@thehotbaker7853]

Thank you so much for that information about her reaching the device near her hip to adjust the volume. I thought it was because the device was installed on her back and it fell when she jumped and headbanged. Above all, thank you for all other information from stage design, pyro etc..to types of guitar and the companies.

[@Leishtek]

Consign to Oblivion is one of their oldest songs, released on their second album of the same name 15 years ago. If you want to hear the most bomb ass Epica songs, go straight for the title tracks. But they ALWAYS play this song at the end of their set. ALWAYS, as far as I know. It's interesting to go back and listen to the original studio version before they got THE HEAVY and really shows how a single song can evolve with the band over time. In '10 in Cleveland I basically sat on the stage in a dirty club (I mean, no doors on the toilet stalls; you walk in the bathroom and there is some guy taking a shit) along with maybe like 500 people... it's like you said, truly great musicians and music (even bands FROM America like Dream Theater, Symphony X, and Kamelot) are relatively unknown here, but we all know America has a culture problem. Anyway, because I was so close and was clearly a fan, Isaac bent over and let me hold down some frets while he played the slow parts at "LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWW". It's a great music memory of mine I'll cherish forever. He also started the first College of Metal and is just in general a great guy. Got a picture of me between him and Mark doing devil horns \m/ and a signed Design Your Universe poster on my wall. Mark told me about Mayan before there was any real news about it. This band has just been with me nearly every step of my underground musical journey. I really hated growls at first but between this band and Opeth I was forced to learn to love them because how in the fuck are you not going to listen to these guys?

[@jackstorm5649]

So let me vote for Storm the Sorrow, Design Your Universe, & Kingdom of Heaven for future Epica reacts. You Also might want to check out MaYaN Mark (rhythm guitar & harsh vocals) & Arien (the underrated drummer) are in both simultaneously. MaYaN is generally a little heavier than Epica with a more core sound. When you're ready for a another new band might I suggest Amaranthe (Viral, GG6, 1,00,000 Light Years) or really anything because Elize. 😍

[@steves.6918]

I think the founder of Epica (the growling guitarist) was also founder of After Forever. First band of... Floor Jansen, who of course had a great guest performance with Epica. Contrary to another vid I commented on, the growling fits better here. Good reaction.

[@jessegibson9890]

The library of kit knowledge in your brain is what I come here for (that and the good-dude vibes). Such a unique take on the reaction genre and always informative. Great vid.

[@TankTheTech]

Thank you so much for the kind words. Seriously appreciated!

[@burake.2440]

Lead guitarist has the smoothest headbangs ever. Don't miss out on them :)

[@ArvoR]

Drummer (Ariën van Weesenbeek) and lead guitar Isaac Delahaye were members of death metal band God Dethroned before forming Epica, both played also in MaYaN (Epicas sister band) and they often tour together, means 2 gigs in one evening, Isaaq quited MaYaN in 2014 but Arien is still in both bands. Also founder of Epica and MaYaN, Mark Jansen, has roots in death metal and it is visible in both bands, bit less in Epica and way more in MaYAN (symphonic death metal, like Fleshgod Appocalypse aso). Coen Jansen is the funny guy on keyboard, he makes orchestrations together with producer Joost van den Broek (the guy who played synth in Ayreon videos), keyboard stand is on small tracks to give him controlled movement ~5m, on some shows he uses NUmotion mobile keyboard to crowdsurf

[@Ubermonk01]

And just to add to that, Mark Jansen was in Floor's first band, After Forever, and Joost van der Broek, the synth guy from Aryeon, was also in After Forever from '04 to '09 (when they disbanded), but I think that was after Mark had already left the band to found what would become Epica.

[@dac2007]

I'm discovering Epica after fully exploring NW and been enjoying the fact that they are so different being from the same "symphonic metal" background. Simone of course was inspired by Tarja so early NWs is more similar, but still Epica is unique with the male growls by Mark and overall "darkness" in their music. I would suggest you to do the whole Retrospect live DVD which is a celebration show for their 10 years, with a full live orchestra, 3-hours setlist. Since of course that would take a lot of single videos you probably just want the highlights, in that case Design Your Universe or Cry for the Moon would be my choices. There's also another popular request from that DVD which you probably already heard of, a certain song with a certain guest vocalist from a certain band I've already mentioned in this comment. That's also a great song, the vocal duet is delicious.

[@mahdie7530]

Epica kingdom of heaven is one of the symbolic songs of symphic metal style. Be sure to listen to that song

[@grimgorlefort]

I love your reactions !! That remembered me 2 years ago at a show with epica in paris that was huge. !

[@mannistef]

I am glad you are liking Epica. My favorite song from them might be Universal Death Squad which has a nice video even showing their gear well. And who does not want to hear a song about apocalyptic robots?

[@sylviemanson9761]

as a french, +1 for the Zenith crowd and the performance!

[@XH13]

I've seen Epica the last 2 times they were in Paris. First time was in fact that concert at the Zenith, Paris' 3rd largest indoor venue for 7000 spectators. Second time was in a smaller venue with a 1300 people capacity. And honestly, the second concert was better. In a smaller venue, you can actually see the band playing. The US/Canada fans are not that disadvantaged with these bands. Anyway, the next time I see Epica will be back at the Zenith, hopefully in December (or more probably next year) And as for the Marseillaise, if I remember correctly, earlier during that show, Coen Janssen started to play it, and the whole crowd went to sing the first verse and chorus

[@shoemaker688]

Like your constant smile Tank. I had to listen several times and now this hits me every time. Another great Dutch band in the metal scene. great reaction too! Some more Tank. I have no hair left, but I'm headbanging like you. This is EPIC indeed! Update Tank: Gonna be there in Tilburg september 2022. Just can't wait!

[@simonriches77]

"Abyss of Time" and "The Skeleton Key" from Epica's most recent album "Omega" are incredible. Actually the whole album is incredible. It's a masterpiece.

[@1947dd]

Your tank facts where interesting as always and gave me a chuckle with the "I was headbanging so much that I missed a..." What you said at the end is something that I have noticed. All these great bands seem to play smaller venues here in the States. I found that rather socking when I first noticed it. Well, looking forward to the next reaction Tank, peace out.

[@fernandochinchilla4979]

I´ve seen this reaction, and other reactors, for tenths of times, but no one reacts to Coen going mad running through the stage from back and forth while his keyboard goes on the rails. It´s crazy awesome!!

[@odell4625]

Can't thank your channel enough for introducing me to this band. Definitely checking more of them out. Thinking you'll have a very similar reaction to Dimmu Borgir-Gateways live.

[@TankTheTech]

I love Dimmu but I’ve never seen them live. I’ll check it out!

[@ericswannie2504]

Storm the Sorrow, that's my jam. Oh, and Design your Universe...plus Sancta Terra with Simone's friend...what's her name...Floor Jansen! (Best Hair Video Ever)

[@SpitFireShad]

They guys are insane live. Not my favorite genre (not looking to argue peeps), but I can appreciate the talent!

[@matthewanthony]

So glad to see you get around to Epica - they're incredible. Please add another tally mark for their live performance of Sancta Terra with Floor!

[@yssanne24601]

Oooh, but now come check out Kamelot! Epica got their name from Kamelot's album - Epica. Also, Simone is married to Kamelot's pianist, Oliver Palotai. Oh, and she has an aaaamazing duet with Kamelot - The haunting (somewhere in time). My recommendation: live Norway, 2006. That whole concert is just perfect.

[@Macklan400]

Sensorium from the 10th anniversary show. That performance makes me SO HAPPY....you may already have reacted to it though (I'm 5 months behind :P)

[@xzaxyll9158]

To the list of awesome bands you need to hear Amaranthe, for me they are in a line with Nightwish and Epica. And they have made a cover of a sabaton song which is epic

[@music2seeconcertphotograph457]

What an awesome show. From my photographers point of view I would have loved to shoot this show from FoH with a long lens for some special moments on stage (the keyboarder screaming, Simone with nice lights, ...). But even more a wide angle lens to catch this incredible light setups and pyro effects would have been a concert photographers dream.

[@kemal2442]

Yes they do the wall of death, I got cought in one on an Epica concert. That night I lost my leather wristband...

[@KoreThanatos]

Within Temptation's "Angels" is another band that has a really good sound. Also Lacuna Coil are great. A song for them would be "Our Truth"

[@robinallen3516]

watching the back catalogue of reactions, and yeah Epica slay, thanks Tank

[@jasonfisher8529]

Dammit, Tank, as someone who has never been on the stage side of a concert, I just learn so much from you every time. Thanks!

[@rsprenger79]

Hi Tank, thanks for a great video! This video popped up when I was watching an other KZbinr's reaction to this performance. I like your perspective on things, meaning the technical perspective. Brings something different to the table than other reactors I've seen so far. Now, about this band, I've been fortunate enough to watch them live a couple of times, and at some point I noticed something. You might have missed it through all the headbanging, but that keyboard not only turns around on a stand, the stand itself actually moves too. It's on a set of rails going all around that raised stage around the drummer (sorry for my lack of the right technical terms here). That keyboard player has so much energy, it's crazy. If you're going to watch more live performances of Epica, you'll see what I mean. Pushing his gear around like he's on a skateboard.... I mean, from a technical point of view, what's with all the cables then? Probably some wireless transmitters or something, like the microphones.... ? Anyways, I'll be sure to check your other videos out. Take care!

[@OrkarIsberEstar]

Well done explainign the fire and mist effects. Im learning =) thanks

[@donottrusty5911]

I love how in the intro you had I Want My Tears Back in the background

[@cyberdan42]

The folks in this band are some of the nicest folks you'll ever meet. I fell in love with this band in the late 90's (before my Nightwish love) and with family in the Netherlands was lucky enough to travel over and see them do a small gig near the hometown of several of their members. Several of them mingled with crowd, including me, was great. Also at that gig in the crowd was a tall, stunning and friendly woman, then I think After Forever singer, Floor Jansen, and she is more amazing in person, which seems to defy logic.

[@Sarcasticron]

Epica was formed in 2002, so you couldn't have seen them in the late 90s. Bet it was nice meeting Floor, though. She says she turns into a different person on stage, which I believe because the normal version seems quite self-effacing, like she’s trying to make up for her intimidating height by being almost meek. It's nice that Mark doesn't hold a grudge for the way she and Sander kicked him out of After Forever right before they were about to go on tour with Nightwish. I guess the fact that Epica became way more successful than After Forever took some of the sting out.

[@cyberdan42]

@@Sarcasticron Truth, time distorts as one grows older, I found them Classical Conspiracy, so the late 'Oughts'. Shit, I've lost a decade.......

[@Sarcasticron]

@@cyberdan42 I feel you, man, I really do. Sometimes I find myself remembering the music I listened to in the 90s and thinking of it as "recent."

[@roonekoos6146]

Hi Tank, great reaction again. Tbh, I think the reaction video.s might make bands from Europe more known and even let bands as Nightwish/Epica fill up an America big stadium next year. Greatings.

[@Neonbob]

One of the Greatest Concerts I ever watched & Played for my Neighbors Wish I was there. Reason they are called EPICA

[@rxd3556]

awesome! that's me screaming in the pit at 2:24! It was such an incredible show Fun fact: This was the biggest show of Epica out of their country, so they were having so much fun on stage it was really cool

[@ackos2488]

Last song of the night, and the amount of energy they put into into it was epic

[@robertthompson8199]

Listening to your reactions have introduced me to so many bands I would not have know about. Keep it up this is awesome

[@yohannabarnes7578]

Men!!! I see the band live in Buenos Aires. OMFG! Mi big 2 Nightwish and Epica

[@theseanie9958]

i absolutely love the ending of this song

[@Aurinkohirvi]

So do I, just made a comment few minutes back, and that was my high point of the song.

[@simonriches77]

I listened to Epica's most recent album "Omega" yesterday, and I absolutely love every song. It's a masterpiece. I am a Farley new fan of Epica, and having listened to their newest album I wish I had heard of this band years ago. As their name states they are epic.