THE HOLOGRAPHIC PRINCIPLE

Epica is one of the more notable bands of the ever-growing operatic female-fronted metal acts. One of Its distinguished characteristics is how the quasi-symphonic elements play not just a supporting background role, but often lead the music as much as the typical metal instrumentation. Another is the beauty-and-the-beast formula, with ethereal acrobatics of Simone Simons and the often symphonic pop melodic inclinations contrasted with the harsh metal riffs and growls. The growls are annoying as always, of course, but I know, I know , it's kind of Epica's schtick it can't be itself without. I've previously said that all Epica sound is the same, and it kind of still is, but what I marvel about is their consistency in proving high quality and catchy material with so many 70-minute-plus albums to their credit.