EPICA – Aspiral (2025) *HQ*
2025 marks a new chapter for symphonic metal innovators EPICA, with the release of their 9th studio album titled “Aspiral“. For more than 20 years now, Epica have been standing tall. And while already their last efforts clearly showcased their commitment to the game, it is “Aspiral” that truly distills the very heart of their trademark sound.
It’s still the same kind of epic, theatrical symphonic metal fans have come to expect, with all the expected elements, such as a big focus on orchestral elements and choirs, heavy guitar work, and plenty of catchy, melodic sections where Simone Simons takes over with her always beautiful and fantastic lead vocals. There’s also some speedy power metal sections, and a few more complex and progressive tracks.
However, I’d say the approach and structure of the album is a tad different, compared to normal. Unlike any of their past LPs, “Aspiral” is more song-focused. There’s a good amount of variety, with some heavier tracks, some lighter, more melodic songs, and obviously the three lengthier tracks are more complex, as well as being some of the most classic Epica sounding tracks the band has done in quite a while.
01 – Cross the Divide
02 – Arcana
03 – Darkness Dies in Light – A New Age Dawns Part VII –
04 – Obsidian Heart
05 – Fight to Survive – The Overview Effect –
06 – Metanoia – A New Age Dawns Part VIII –
07 – T.I.M.E.
08 – Apparition
09 – Eye of the Storm
10 – The Grand Saga of Existence – A New Age Dawns Part IX –
11 – Aspiral
Simone Simons – lead & backing vocals
Mark Jansen – guitars, growled vocals
Isaac Delahaye – guitars
Coen Janssen – piano, synthesizer
Rob van der Loo – bass
Ariën van Weesenbeek – drums, vocals
Pre order:
shop.nuclearblast.com/products/epica-aspiral
