Metallica is crunchier for a good work out to listen to. Too many instruments take away from the classic thrash feel. I like thier stage presence and theatrics. I am not into this divine feminine stuff. They remind me of Dream Theater. Nothing wrong just Old Metallica still better for me as chugging, thrash and raw energy, and anger. They are very good though.
Epica! There's so many good 7 string riffs to be found in Epica's music if someone wants inspiration. For a heavier Epica song, Consign To Oblivion live at Zenith is a flawless performance, fucking heavy and chock full of music theory.
I never liked Epica until I saw them live.. My wife forced me into seing them cause I wasn't interested in going.. definetely not dissapointed at the end, they sounded great and lots of energy.. and I got to see Simon Simmons who by the way delivered such an astonishing performance that night. They literally blew up the place..
I Saw Epica with Sabaton in Dallas. Their set was killer! They sounded incredibly good and put on a hell of a show. Their finale was a face melter 🤘🏼. I’ve been a thrash metal enthusiast since the mid 80s, and the Dallas show topped any other show I’ve seen. No brutal pit, but The crowd was the best I’ve been around….Period. This was my fave opening and headliner line up….and I’ve seen many great bands, including the big4. Metal is Alive and well.
@@_colton_6452 the show was so good that we looked into going to Houston to see them again. In fact, I had never heard of Epica or Sabaton until a couple of months ago when my son asked to go see Sabaton. It was his first Metal concert. Both bands set an incredibly high standard for a live show. 🤘🏼💪👍. We will be at both bands next Texas show(s).
Epica is my favourite band hands down. I listen to them daily. I’m glad you’ve found this awesome band. Simone Simons’s crystal clear vocals blend beautifully with the wall of sound created by the guitar, keyboards and intense drumming. Marc Jansen is the creative force behind the band. They truly are EPIC! Thanks for reviewing my favourite band! 🤘🏼🔥🎸
I saw Epica this year they were on Mexico touring, amazing concert, incredible vocals, great music, they energy and stage presence is awesome. I was so lost in the music, absolute love this band 😉🤘🏻🔥
Great reaction. Seen Epica like a dozen times. Frankly, they never disappointed live. Big setting, small setting, doesn’t matter to them. Other great female singers: Diane van Girsbergen ( Ex Libris) and Marcela Bovio (Ayreon, MaYaN, Dark Horse White Horse) Go check them out if you haven’t already. Best show this year: MaYaN 10th anniversary show (well after been postponed, they called it 12.5th anniversary show.
@@Frankamaria Noora is awesome. Seen Ad Infinitum live in June. I have to admit, I was rather disappointed with her vocals live. But she just might have a bad day.
After years of hoping I finally got to see EPICA live in their Chicago show with Sabaton. Yes, I went there for EPICA as the opener, their set was like,, an hour. Very short. Felt like 10 minutes and it was amazing. I'm sure Sabaton did great but they've never been my thing so I left. Don't know how I ended up so happy with only an hour but I would gladly play thousands for another hour, favorite band, they never disappoint
This is probably the best reaction video I have seen. I like that you talk about composition and music theory and that the viewer is not only entertained, but can also learn something. (I found the video because Epica is my favourite band.)
@Rui Pinheiro saw their 20th anniversary show at 013, Tilburg (the Netherlands)... the evening started with Sahara Dust (the band from which Epica originated) at half past seven. Some of todays band members, including Simone Simons, played with that band as well. Than there was a half hour break between half past eight and nine o'clock before Epica itself got on the stage. They played untill half past elleven!! So simone Simmons sang for 3,5 hours that evening... and dhe never missed a note!!! What a party that was!!!
Simone toured while pregnant, gave birth and recorded that album with the baby on her hip. She took breaks to nurse the baby between takes. She might look delicate, but she's tough as nails and a hell of a dedicated singer.
Try again, it will only get better with more listenings, I promise! 😉 Make sure you also listen to its B-sides. Next album you can try is "The Holographic Principle" which came out 2 years after The Quantum Enigma.
Epica are at the top of their game. Smart writing and phrasing, brilliant performances, good dynamics. Now let's get all the elitist douchebags to disagree.
When Metallica losses its juices after the "And justice for all" I begun to focus to newer bands specially European bands Nightwish,Therion,Rhapsody back in the late 90s. Saw Epica live concert during "Divine Conspiracy Tour" They're frikkin" awesome.
This video is from one of their livestreams so it's not a typical "live" situation. I saw them in Nashville two weeks ago and they were excellent, even with limited space on the stage.
They are my favorite symphonic metal band. They always put on an amazing show. Just recently saw them and the keyboardist crowd surfed with his keyboard. It was awesome 🤘
Witness the Wastelands of American Metal having jack to bring to this table. I mean what here can touch this? Writing, performing, production and polish... all world-class, and Shmoon is such a well-crafted girl, and can really sing, (and own the stage and the audience), and she's gotten even better, and she was already impressive, and Jansen's writing skills are as good as it gets today and all these guys are long-seasoned pros now. How many live shows have they given? In epic, symphonic folk metal, I mean organically folk from their own old-world cultures and other non-mainstream metal scenes, with few exceptions I'm afraid Europe crushes us.
For 20 years they have continued to evolve. They don't sit on their asses and repeat the past. And Mark Jansen has so many irons in the fire--check out MaYaN.
@@SaltyAlaskan79I knew there was gonna be someone like you. Haters are gonna hate but keep clicking on videos to leave hate comment it helps them while you just have hate in your heart
Fkn masterpiece!!! I am hearing this thru crappy ten-dollar speakers and it still sounds great. You have a good ear by the way Lord Shred. I have been learning a lot more theory it is nice to finally know what I am actually hearing and playing. Don't know how you caught that low C, but you did my ear training is not that developed yet, but I am working on it. Keep on Shredding knowledge peace out and stay Brutal!
You might forget somebody here Shred. Try Anneke van Giersbergen. She's called the godmother of Dutch metal and a inspiration for both Floor and Simone. The was the frontwomen of the Gathering from 1995 till 2007. You might check that out.
I'm happy they're finally getting the recognition they deserve! Been a fan for almost 20 years and they play regularly in Colombia. They have a huge latin american fanbase. Seen them a dozen times by now. There's so much great metal the world is completely obvlivious to.
They are the band I've seen most times in my life. They always put a hell of a show. I been following them almost since they started and their evolution musically speaking is something to envy 💜 also really nice people, down to esarth and humble every time I've had the chance to talk to them
Nightwish was the best show I've seen in years! May of this year in S.F. Floor's command of the space was impressive. It wasn't ego driven, it was fueled by her singular talent and love. I'm just now getting into Epica, hope to see them next year.
@@allandnothing5987 Epica just like Nightwish are the biggest name in symphonic metal, maybe with Therion. That's the holy trinity. Epica is not just "some modern metal". Their musical compositions are incredible. And, as Nightwish have been gradually shifting more and more toward folk metal in the recent years, Epica can be now considered the most symphonic and most metal band in the sympho subgenre. Also, Simone is a goddess, there's no doubt about it.
@@allandnothing5987 night wish with tarja and epica re my favs. New night wish is okay but I liked floor when she was with after forever..I just don't feel the same with her as lead with nightwish
@@cancelled_user Actually I find them all boring, can't listen to Epica or Therion except couple of songs. Even Nightwish can become monotonous but when they hit it, they really do it.
Thanks so much for the reaction Shred. I'm wondering, do you have perfect pitch? you certainly seem to hear all of those key changes and notes. I'm working on my voice again. I sang in various HS choirs for my 4 years and it was one of my favorite memories of school (there weren't enough good ones, theater was cool too). Also, you NAILED the pronunciation of my last name so +666 points to you.
First time viewer here. I wished you mixed the music a bit louder, but I do really enjoy the sports-style running commentary on the music. If the music career doesn't work out, you should become a sports announcer or radio dj! 😁
Brittany Slayes , Noora , Sharon Den Adel from within temptation, and the lead singer of Lovebites. Those are the best singers in metal right now. Along with Simone who seems to keep getting better and better every time I hear her.
And there is only one Simone Simons and only one Fabienne Erni. Simone, Fabi and Floor are for me on the same level, all three are my absolute favourites. But what I said, not everybody likes Floor. 😉
I saw them in Philly last week with Sabaton. Epica blew me away. I put them with OG bands like Emerson, Lake and Palmer, Yes, Rush and Kansas. Brilliant writing, incredible musicianship and fantastic crowd interaction. I can't wait to see them again.
Yes Epica is truly one amazing band I absolutely love there music I've talked to quite a few people who have recently seen the Iron Maiden w/ Within Temptation US tour and have been very impressed with Within Temptation another amazing Symphonic Metal band
If you want a powerful female metal vocalist; check out Unleash the Archers. Brittney Slayes is a monster. Their track Speed of Light is just super fun power metal
I've seen too many live performances from Pantera, Zombie, Disturbed, Napalm Death, etc... top 3 live performances are Rammstein for music and showmanship, Nightwish (Floor) for absolute raw talent and AVATAR even if their production isn't as expensive as the better known bands, their energy has no match. Looking forward to an Epica concert now.
I have been following Epica for many years...I started around 2006/7-time frame after I discovered their album, The Phantom Agony...best song, Sensorium. I have been with them ever since...seems American metal can no longer compete with these European metal bands any longer...specifically, Symphonic Heavy Metal. Check out Epica's Blu-ray/CD "Retrospect" that came out a few years back and enjoy watching and hearing an amazing live concert.
With a name like Epica you know everything they do has to be epic. From ladies with fire between their toes hanging from chandeliers to spinning keyboards to epic contrasts in voices and instruments to unexpected key and speed changes to epic light and fire shows... I could go on. And you mentioned Floor Jansen. Simone and her are friends. They also performed together. Check out Epica - Sancta Terra feat Floor Jansen. No growling in that one. But who needs that when there are 2 Dutch goddesses on stage?
It seems weird to me that you suggest people might not have heard of Epica, they've been going a long time now. Awesome band, so much talent! Cool reaction video, thanks \m/
I can assure you that in the US theres alot of people who haven't even heard of the name Epica. Just like theres alot who have heard Nightwish or Symphonic Metal in general.
@@paulriddle7818 Wow, that is crazy stuff to me, yeah. I'm in the UK, since the mid '80s I've always been into the European and US metal scenes equally, maybe a bit more of a leaning towards the European as I love my power, symphonic and folk metal.
I did get to see them a good while back in 2012, in the Ruhr Area in Germany and I LOVED every minute of it 🥰 Definitely worth giving g them a shot if you've never heard of them 😊 Oh and that stream as well. I didn't do to many online stream shows during Covid, but that one was one of them 😁
I just saw them live for the fifth time on October 18th in Philly. They are my favorite metal band. They opened for the Swedish power metal band Sabaton.
Hi shred great video. For me I love Epica and Nightwish equally and the same goes for Simone and Floor I really enjoy what they do with their personality, talents and interpretation they feel the music needs. By the way great video.
I'm not in the business of saying who is the best because the can of worms is just too much so sometimes posts and videos like this turn me off but I will go on record as saying that I am from the United States and I keep telling my colleagues my family my friends and anyone else who is willing to listen that the metal scene in Europe Asia and I have to include Canada is just insane I personally think that the vocalists are top notch and these bands are so good live it's insane and auto-tune? They don't know what that is lol rock on !!!!!!!
It seems from alot of the comments that this video has angered a few to a lot of people. Especially the ones that like to throw their insults at Simone. I guess she's an easy target for them to degrade the band and show some hate
@@redfielduniverse we just spoke to one in another comment here. Really unbelievable that people like that go to Epica reactions. If I really don't like a band than I don't watch and stay away out of respect for the artists, or I give it a try but I will not spread my negative thoughts.
What's new. We know who they are surfing through YT video's and hastily trying desperately to downgrade this band. It doesn't work though and they know it, it's completely useless. 😉
@@fritsyt2090 Exactly. It seems a lot of people feel entitled to spread negativity. If they didnt like it, politely say it's not for them. Dont say rude things. But people have no filters so they just say whatever they want not caring about the impact
several shows of Nightwish I have been to this year (both festival and regular touring set) and it was fire! The Second best show for me this year was Battle Beast in a very small venue (a small rock club/bar in Nuremnerg/Germany, still some pyros 👀🌋🔥) while touring with their Circus of Doom album. That was awesome, also their suppirt Band Future Palace (German Newcomer Band) I heard, Battle Beast is also great in huge venues such as festivals, but I really enjoied the club athmosphere. Tomorrow I will see Evergrey in the same venue... let's see :)
Epica is the best I saw them in the Mexican Omega Tour and want to see them again, I World not care if the set list is the same. Listening to Epica has been a life changing experience for me.
Epica is magic like Nightwish. Both are out of this world live. 😊 Because I am still going to and haven't been to Nightwish (December) and Epica (Match 23) this year, the best Metal live performance has been... Blind Guardian. If you don't know them check out "The Bard's Song and Valhalla" Wacken live 2016. The hymn of Metal. No doubt at all. 90k people getting insane. 2nd recommandation is "Mirror Mirror" official live. This song is so great that Tolkien wrote some books about it. 😂😂😂
There are quite a few bands in this genre who do rather excellent work, all in their own style. The hardest part for me is picking just one as "the best"
Since 2000 easy, the best metal band musically and that gives you the best overall show is The Transiberian orchestra. Say Metal because if you see the quality of meal members in it is a Christmas metal show!!! You have pyro, lasers, huge screens, up and down platforms, up, down, sideways light racks, epic sound, snow, classic music (Beethoven, Mozart.....) married to metal, Christmas music married to rock, awesome vocal performances. Just all of it make it the best show you get and for the $$$... When was the last time you get a ticket for $89.00 and you are seated on first rows???
I saw Baroness first time this past year at Rockville Daytona Beach, Fl. Megadeth cancelled… but this band made the trip worth while. “Take My Bones Away” by Baroness. I believe there is live video from the crowd on TH-cam somewhere.
Epica is absolutely sensational... Simone is divine. But theyre still "only" second best. There is no better metal band live than Nightwish. All of the "Dutch Angels" are sensational and their bands are not second rate either. Check out Within Temptaion and Anneke van Giersbergen too if you like this genre.
I saw them with Lacuna Coil and Insomnium back in 2017, and they were certainly good. But best live band ever? I don't know. I did meet Simone after the show, and she might be one of the hottest women on the planet, though. She's twice as hot in person.
Best female vocals? Floor, Tatiana and Brittney... Best current metal band? Lovebites gets a vote from me. Picks up the best from 80s metal, and gives it a new refreshing twist. Recommend checking out their live video of "Set the world on fire" from 2021. That dual lead is so good.
As Symphonic Metal is concerned, yeah Epica is the epitome of that genre, with Nightwish. You really can't compare them to Metallica or Slayer or any American Metal Band for that matter. Because most American bands are not Symphonic in their sound so i'll set them all apart from the ones actually doing Symphonic Metal right.. And Symphonic Metal is extremely difficult to pull off too..
@@myracrystalhalilion9790 Nightwish kinda left symphonic metal for something more like folk metal. It is what it is, shouldn't discount their previous contributions to the genre. Who knows, Tuomas might get out of this phase and blow us away in the future.
@@rolsen1304 I will temper you hypeness about Nightwish, read in an interview with Tuomas that the new album will be in line with the latest ones and be part of a trilogy. I bought Human Nature CD, but I regret it of doing that because I skip half of the album which is just too mainstream for me and just not my thing anymore. Only good songs are for me are Shoemaker, Pan and Tribal.
you have to watch their "1000th concert, concert. i would have sold my soul to be there for that. FWIW, sometimes backing tracks take something away from the live show for me. i was really disappointed by visions of atlantis during their recent tour with dragon force and 7 spires. like a cheap karaoke show. normally, the epica stage has like railroad tracks for the keyboardist to wander all around rolling his keyboard. and finally: TARJA FOREVER!
Floor-bot's and Nightwish-trolls everywhere. They are like rabbits who pop out of their holes haha (there are really nice Nightwish fans too, my best friend is Nightwish die hard, but she start to love Epica more and more).
Epica is better tbh. I like nightwish however they are no longer symphonic metal band. They are pseudo symphonic metal with no orchestra or choir unlike in the past they sounded better.
@@kanashihito1214 Yeah, Nightwish is an amazing band, but I feel they are slipping recently. The covid break probably didn't help either. Floor is the main reason I'll watch their videos.
@Huh i agree...the studio sound of septicflesh is a bit better. also i wasnt comparing them to Epica. their music is great but a lot less complex i think, maybe thats why SF sound messy. it;s just that many bands put the orchestral parts in their songs as an afterthought
For modern thrash, Lovebites definitely hold their own. They don't do a ton of thrash, but what they do is Big 4 caliber. Check out Set The world on fire live or Break The World live 2020. They have 2 lead guitarists, one inspired by Dimebag...women of my dreams. Can't really compare Epica to Metallica genre-wise, can you? Metallica's SFO gig closest you can get I guess but two different genres altogether. Just my opinion.
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Hi Shred !! 🥰
Metallica is crunchier for a good work out to listen to. Too many instruments take away from the classic thrash feel. I like thier stage presence and theatrics. I am not into this divine feminine stuff. They remind me of Dream Theater. Nothing wrong just Old Metallica still better for me as chugging, thrash and raw energy, and anger. They are very good though.
Epica forever and ever!!! Simone is the Siren in metal!
Totally agree Shred about Simone and Floor have the best female voices in metal. They both blow my mind :D
Your name is not a Floor fan give away at all ;)
It´s a dead give away :D I would however classify myself as Nightwish fan. I love them all equally.
Enter Adrienne Cowan of Seven Spires.
Epica! There's so many good 7 string riffs to be found in Epica's music if someone wants inspiration. For a heavier Epica song, Consign To Oblivion live at Zenith is a flawless performance, fucking heavy and chock full of music theory.
I never liked Epica until I saw them live.. My wife forced me into seing them cause I wasn't interested in going.. definetely not dissapointed at the end, they sounded great and lots of energy.. and I got to see Simon Simmons who by the way delivered such an astonishing performance that night. They literally blew up the place..
Good to hear! Oh well read here lol :-)
You have a great wife, dude. But how could you not like Epica before? 🙃
@s1mperadicator13They make music for teenage goth girls. Enough reason for not liking them.
I Saw Epica with Sabaton in Dallas. Their set was killer! They sounded incredibly good and put on a hell of a show. Their finale was a face melter 🤘🏼. I’ve been a thrash metal enthusiast since the mid 80s, and the Dallas show topped any other show I’ve seen. No brutal pit, but The crowd was the best I’ve been around….Period. This was my fave opening and headliner line up….and I’ve seen many great bands, including the big4. Metal is Alive and well.
i saw them in houston it was freaking awesome!
@@_colton_6452 the show was so good that we looked into going to Houston to see them again. In fact, I had never heard of Epica or Sabaton until a couple of months ago when my son asked to go see Sabaton. It was his first Metal concert. Both bands set an incredibly high standard for a live show. 🤘🏼💪👍. We will be at both bands next Texas show(s).
Oh no, can’t believe they are here & I missed them!😩
Welcome to the magical world of Epica! Greetings from the Netherlands, the land of Epica! 🤘🏻
Have you been to a maiden show?
Epica is my favourite band hands down. I listen to them daily. I’m glad you’ve found this awesome band. Simone Simons’s crystal clear vocals blend beautifully with the wall of sound created by the guitar, keyboards and intense drumming. Marc Jansen is the creative force behind the band. They truly are EPIC!
Thanks for reviewing my favourite band! 🤘🏼🔥🎸
I saw Epica this year they were on Mexico touring, amazing concert, incredible vocals, great music, they energy and stage presence is awesome. I was so lost in the music, absolute love this band 😉🤘🏻🔥
Epica is a band to see live, I feel at home with them, I certainly wouldn't miss a concert.
Great reaction. Seen Epica like a dozen times. Frankly, they never disappointed live. Big setting, small setting, doesn’t matter to them. Other great female singers: Diane van Girsbergen ( Ex Libris) and Marcela Bovio (Ayreon, MaYaN, Dark Horse White Horse) Go check them out if you haven’t already.
Best show this year: MaYaN 10th anniversary show (well after been postponed, they called it 12.5th anniversary show.
Definitely agree with Diane. So glad shes gonna be doing some more symphonic metal
may I add Noora from Battle Beast and Melissa Bonny to that list? 🤘
@@Frankamaria Noora is awesome. Seen Ad Infinitum live in June. I have to admit, I was rather disappointed with her vocals live. But she just might have a bad day.
After years of hoping I finally got to see EPICA live in their Chicago show with Sabaton. Yes, I went there for EPICA as the opener, their set was like,, an hour. Very short. Felt like 10 minutes and it was amazing. I'm sure Sabaton did great but they've never been my thing so I left. Don't know how I ended up so happy with only an hour but I would gladly play thousands for another hour, favorite band, they never disappoint
I did the EXACT same thing! Love EPICA!!! Left after their set. No thanks, Sabaton.
This is probably the best reaction video I have seen. I like that you talk about composition and music theory and that the viewer is not only entertained, but can also learn something. (I found the video because Epica is my favourite band.)
to me Epica is my most favorite band for alot of reasons
saw them in houston a couple weeks ago with sabaton! had never heard of epica before but man they blew me away love ‘em now 🤘🏼
Dude they are fucking awesome and Simone is gorgeous 😍
I was so tempted to make the drive down to Houston to see them there as well, but ya know, time and $$$.
Epica is simply amazing, they just celebrated 20 years, they keep pushing the boundaries of Metal.
@Rui Pinheiro saw their 20th anniversary show at 013, Tilburg (the Netherlands)... the evening started with Sahara Dust (the band from which Epica originated) at half past seven. Some of todays band members, including Simone Simons, played with that band as well.
Than there was a half hour break between half past eight and nine o'clock before Epica itself got on the stage. They played untill half past elleven!!
So simone Simmons sang for 3,5 hours that evening... and dhe never missed a note!!! What a party that was!!!
Wow!! La mejor reacción hacia Épica que he visto!! Me encantó, gracias por apoyarlos!! Saludos desdes México!
You have to see them live. Watch Consign to Oblivion, Live at the Zenith. This will blow your mind!
Epica was just here in Minneapolis with Sabaton. It was a sold out show and it was epic! They got me into my first wall of death.
Was listening to "The Quantum Enigma" album the other day without expecting too much, what a great album
Yep all their albums are insane
Simone toured while pregnant, gave birth and recorded that album with the baby on her hip. She took breaks to nurse the baby between takes. She might look delicate, but she's tough as nails and a hell of a dedicated singer.
@@SunOfTheSun even their b-sides
@@myracrystalhalilion9790 yep. In All Conscience my favourite song
Try again, it will only get better with more listenings, I promise! 😉 Make sure you also listen to its B-sides.
Next album you can try is "The Holographic Principle" which came out 2 years after The Quantum Enigma.
The quality of the music from my perspective as a musician is not beaten by another Metal band that I know.
Epica are at the top of their game. Smart writing and phrasing, brilliant performances, good dynamics.
Now let's get all the elitist douchebags to disagree.
They haters from the other band came already to spread their negativity about Simone and Epica to support their favourites. Lol
When Metallica losses its juices after the "And justice for all" I begun to focus to newer bands specially European bands Nightwish,Therion,Rhapsody back in the late 90s. Saw Epica live concert during "Divine Conspiracy Tour" They're frikkin" awesome.
This video is from one of their livestreams so it's not a typical "live" situation. I saw them in Nashville two weeks ago and they were excellent, even with limited space on the stage.
They are my favorite symphonic metal band. They always put on an amazing show. Just recently saw them and the keyboardist crowd surfed with his keyboard. It was awesome 🤘
1 of the greatest Dutch metal bands, and a shout-out to the Belgian 🇧🇪 guitarist Isaac Delahaye (on the Les Paul)
7 string Les Paul
Isaac is so freaking talented!
@@fritsyt2090 Agreed! He's also very smart, sweet, and has a great sense of humor. I want to see him and Coen do a buddy a comedy someday.
They where the best live band I've seen
Great reaction!! EPICA the BEST modern live METAL band EVER? probably you"r right! and in my opinion they surely are:)
rob van loo the bass player play on a 5 string dingwall d-roc hellboy edition , the tone of this bass is heaven and hell at the same time for my ears
Witness the Wastelands of American Metal having jack to bring to this table. I mean what here can touch this?
Writing, performing, production and polish... all world-class, and Shmoon is such a well-crafted girl, and can really sing, (and own the stage and the audience), and she's gotten even better, and she was already impressive, and Jansen's writing skills are as good as it gets today and all these guys are long-seasoned pros now. How many live shows have they given?
In epic, symphonic folk metal, I mean organically folk from their own old-world cultures and other non-mainstream metal scenes, with few exceptions I'm afraid Europe crushes us.
They celebrated their 1000'th show like 3-4 years ago so yes pretty impressive.
Kamelot is counted as American, right?
But yea, feels like europe has a stranglehold on symphonic metal.
For 20 years they have continued to evolve. They don't sit on their asses and repeat the past. And Mark Jansen has so many irons in the fire--check out MaYaN.
Best band in the world right now
😂😂😂 Yeah right! Well it's not really saying much. 99.9 % of all music produced nowadays sucks
@@SaltyAlaskan79I knew there was gonna be someone like you. Haters are gonna hate but keep clicking on videos to leave hate comment it helps them while you just have hate in your heart
Fkn masterpiece!!! I am hearing this thru crappy ten-dollar speakers and it still sounds great. You have a good ear by the way Lord Shred. I have been learning a lot more theory it is nice to finally know what I am actually hearing and playing. Don't know how you caught that low C, but you did my ear training is not that developed yet, but I am working on it. Keep on Shredding knowledge peace out and stay Brutal!
You might forget somebody here Shred. Try Anneke van Giersbergen. She's called the godmother of Dutch metal and a inspiration for both Floor and Simone. The was the frontwomen of the Gathering from 1995 till 2007. You might check that out.
This song manages to be: Sexy, epic, metal and though-provoking at the same time.
Really enjoyed their newest release!
The Great Tribulation is such a phenomenal blend of Epica and Fleshgod Apocalypse...a heavy masterpiece!! 🔥🤘🏻
The title says everything, my favourite band since 2008.
Absolutely one of the best.
As a longtime Nightwish, Lacuna Coil, Evanescence fan, very thankful you brought these guys to my attention! 🤘💀🤘
I'm happy they're finally getting the recognition they deserve! Been a fan for almost 20 years and they play regularly in Colombia. They have a huge latin american fanbase. Seen them a dozen times by now. There's so much great metal the world is completely obvlivious to.
They are the band I've seen most times in my life. They always put a hell of a show. I been following them almost since they started and their evolution musically speaking is something to envy 💜 also really nice people, down to esarth and humble every time I've had the chance to talk to them
Nightwish was the best show I've seen in years! May of this year in S.F. Floor's command of the space was impressive. It wasn't ego driven, it was fueled by her singular talent and love. I'm just now getting into Epica, hope to see them next year.
Nightwish with Tarja was untouchable by any of these "modern metal" female bands.
@@allandnothing5987 Epica just like Nightwish are the biggest name in symphonic metal, maybe with Therion. That's the holy trinity. Epica is not just "some modern metal". Their musical compositions are incredible. And, as Nightwish have been gradually shifting more and more toward folk metal in the recent years, Epica can be now considered the most symphonic and most metal band in the sympho subgenre. Also, Simone is a goddess, there's no doubt about it.
@@allandnothing5987 night wish with tarja and epica re my favs. New night wish is okay but I liked floor when she was with after forever..I just don't feel the same with her as lead with nightwish
@@cancelled_user Actually I find them all boring, can't listen to Epica or Therion except couple of songs. Even Nightwish can become monotonous but when they hit it, they really do it.
I’ll take both and just enjoy ,seen both live 🎉
Thanks so much for the reaction Shred. I'm wondering, do you have perfect pitch? you certainly seem to hear all of those key changes and notes. I'm working on my voice again. I sang in various HS choirs for my 4 years and it was one of my favorite memories of school (there weren't enough good ones, theater was cool too). Also, you NAILED the pronunciation of my last name so +666 points to you.
First time viewer here. I wished you mixed the music a bit louder, but I do really enjoy the sports-style running commentary on the music. If the music career doesn't work out, you should become a sports announcer or radio dj! 😁
Brittany Slayes , Noora , Sharon Den Adel from within temptation, and the lead singer of Lovebites. Those are the best singers in metal right now. Along with Simone who seems to keep getting better and better every time I hear her.
No Floor or Tatiana?
Lovebites is awesome!
@@andreaspedersen3952 not everybody likes Floor and Tatiana, I guess you mean Tati from Jinjer right?
There is only one Valkyrie Queen
And there is only one Simone Simons and only one Fabienne Erni. Simone, Fabi and Floor are for me on the same level, all three are my absolute favourites. But what I said, not everybody likes Floor. 😉
I saw them in Philly last week with Sabaton. Epica blew me away. I put them with OG bands like Emerson, Lake and Palmer, Yes, Rush and Kansas. Brilliant writing, incredible musicianship and fantastic crowd interaction. I can't wait to see them again.
Yes Epica is truly one amazing band I absolutely love there music I've talked to quite a few people who have recently seen the Iron Maiden w/ Within Temptation US tour and have been very impressed with Within Temptation another amazing Symphonic Metal band
Epica is indeed epic. One of my favorites bands ever!! Simone is a goddess, that angelic voice gives
me the chills every single time.
If you want a powerful female metal vocalist; check out Unleash the Archers. Brittney Slayes is a monster. Their track Speed of Light is just super fun power metal
The best in this moment ❤
I absolutely LOVE EPICA and have ever since 2005 :D
I've seen too many live performances from Pantera, Zombie, Disturbed, Napalm Death, etc... top 3 live performances are Rammstein for music and showmanship, Nightwish (Floor) for absolute raw talent and AVATAR even if their production isn't as expensive as the better known bands, their energy has no match. Looking forward to an Epica concert now.
I have seen them live. I experienced Sabaton and Epica on Tour together. They are both incredible live!
I have been following Epica for many years...I started around 2006/7-time frame after I discovered their album, The Phantom Agony...best song, Sensorium. I have been with them ever since...seems American metal can no longer compete with these European metal bands any longer...specifically, Symphonic Heavy Metal. Check out Epica's Blu-ray/CD "Retrospect" that came out a few years back and enjoy watching and hearing an amazing live concert.
Retrospect is amazing. I want to get Live in Paradiso as well.
With a name like Epica you know everything they do has to be epic. From ladies with fire between their toes hanging from chandeliers to spinning keyboards to epic contrasts in voices and instruments to unexpected key and speed changes to epic light and fire shows... I could go on. And you mentioned Floor Jansen. Simone and her are friends. They also performed together. Check out Epica - Sancta Terra feat Floor Jansen. No growling in that one. But who needs that when there are 2 Dutch goddesses on stage?
It seems weird to me that you suggest people might not have heard of Epica, they've been going a long time now. Awesome band, so much talent! Cool reaction video, thanks \m/
I can assure you that in the US theres alot of people who haven't even heard of the name Epica. Just like theres alot who have heard Nightwish or Symphonic Metal in general.
@@paulriddle7818 Wow, that is crazy stuff to me, yeah. I'm in the UK, since the mid '80s I've always been into the European and US metal scenes equally, maybe a bit more of a leaning towards the European as I love my power, symphonic and folk metal.
@@paulriddle7818as the person who lives in USA. People need symphonic metal in there lives they are rilled up to shaking their butts 😊
If Beethoven would have had P.A. and Electric Guitars, he would had composed Metal-Music.
I did get to see them a good while back in 2012, in the Ruhr Area in Germany and I LOVED every minute of it 🥰 Definitely worth giving g them a shot if you've never heard of them 😊
Oh and that stream as well. I didn't do to many online stream shows during Covid, but that one was one of them 😁
They are Epic🥰 love them
I just saw them live for the fifth time on October 18th in Philly. They are my favorite metal band. They opened for the Swedish power metal band Sabaton.
Alright, you've sold me, I'm gonna have to get your Patreon now. I need more of those jokes. Oh, and the music stuff, yeah, I'm down with that too.
wow! that's all i can say
My favorite metal band in the last 20 years 🤘🏻
The best live show this year? Epica :)
Hi shred great video. For me I love Epica and Nightwish equally and the same goes for Simone and Floor I really enjoy what they do with their personality, talents and interpretation they feel the music needs. By the way great video.
Best live show I have seen this year is Iron Maiden, always a great show from them.
I'm not in the business of saying who is the best because the can of worms is just too much so sometimes posts and videos like this turn me off but I will go on record as saying that I am from the United States and I keep telling my colleagues my family my friends and anyone else who is willing to listen that the metal scene in Europe Asia and I have to include Canada is just insane I personally think that the vocalists are top notch and these bands are so good live it's insane and auto-tune? They don't know what that is lol rock on !!!!!!!
EPICA IS BEAUTIFUL METAL
I saw Epica in Houston, I missed the first half of their show but the other half was amazing!!!
Do Therion next please
Seen EPICA 5 times they are the Real deal Hope they play And tour 20 more years
Seen every Epica show in Florida since 2000
I ❤️ Epica
Yes, together with Nightwish they are the best show out there
It seems from alot of the comments that this video has angered a few to a lot of people. Especially the ones that like to throw their insults at Simone. I guess she's an easy target for them to degrade the band and show some hate
You are correct about that and to let you know. They will always degrade Simone and Epica to promote their favourites. I know which fans you mean.
@@fritsyt2090 Oh we know!
@@redfielduniverse we just spoke to one in another comment here. Really unbelievable that people like that go to Epica reactions. If I really don't like a band than I don't watch and stay away out of respect for the artists, or I give it a try but I will not spread my negative thoughts.
What's new. We know who they are surfing through YT video's and hastily trying desperately to downgrade this band. It doesn't work though and they know it, it's completely useless. 😉
@@fritsyt2090 Exactly. It seems a lot of people feel entitled to spread negativity. If they didnt like it, politely say it's not for them. Dont say rude things. But people have no filters so they just say whatever they want not caring about the impact
several shows of Nightwish I have been to this year (both festival and regular touring set) and it was fire! The Second best show for me this year was Battle Beast in a very small venue (a small rock club/bar in Nuremnerg/Germany, still some pyros 👀🌋🔥) while touring with their Circus of Doom album. That was awesome, also their suppirt Band Future Palace (German Newcomer Band) I heard, Battle Beast is also great in huge venues such as festivals, but I really enjoied the club athmosphere. Tomorrow I will see Evergrey in the same venue... let's see :)
This is an Epica video tho.
Nothing beats Epica's 10th anniversary show Retrospect and their 20th anniversary show last month. :)
I wish more symphonic metal bands would come to Dallas. Many of them won't make the trip. Epica has been here multiple times.
Lovebites Rules!!!
Epica is the best I saw them in the Mexican Omega Tour and want to see them again, I World not care if the set list is the same. Listening to Epica has been a life changing experience for me.
Lacuna Coil on steroids? Count me in, fam!
will you review Within Temptation as well? curious for their musical analysis
Epica is magic like Nightwish. Both are out of this world live. 😊 Because I am still going to and haven't been to Nightwish (December) and Epica (Match 23) this year, the best Metal live performance has been... Blind Guardian. If you don't know them check out "The Bard's Song and Valhalla" Wacken live 2016. The hymn of Metal. No doubt at all. 90k people getting insane. 2nd recommandation is "Mirror Mirror" official live. This song is so great that Tolkien wrote some books about it. 😂😂😂
Nightwish with Tarja was on another level.
There are quite a few bands in this genre who do rather excellent work, all in their own style. The hardest part for me is picking just one as "the best"
Check out the live version of Chasing The Dragon from Epica's Retrospect show. Live with a choir and orchestra.
Since 2000 easy, the best metal band musically and that gives you the best overall show is The Transiberian orchestra. Say Metal because if you see the quality of meal members in it is a Christmas metal show!!! You have pyro, lasers, huge screens, up and down platforms, up, down, sideways light racks, epic sound, snow, classic music (Beethoven, Mozart.....) married to metal, Christmas music married to rock, awesome vocal performances. Just all of it make it the best show you get and for the $$$... When was the last time you get a ticket for $89.00 and you are seated on first rows???
I saw Baroness first time this past year at Rockville Daytona Beach, Fl. Megadeth cancelled… but this band made the trip worth while. “Take My Bones Away” by Baroness. I believe there is live video from the crowd on TH-cam somewhere.
Epica is absolutely sensational...
Simone is divine.
But theyre still "only" second best.
There is no better metal band live than Nightwish.
All of the "Dutch Angels" are sensational and their bands are not second rate either.
Check out Within Temptaion and Anneke van Giersbergen too if you like this genre.
Epica are much better
Epica is great, Nightwish is right there too.
@Huh I understand, Therion is a band I love and they get no attention in reaction videos.
I love epica, but you really can't compare metallica with epica. Both are extreme different genres and styles.
I saw them with Lacuna Coil and Insomnium back in 2017, and they were certainly good. But best live band ever? I don't know. I did meet Simone after the show, and she might be one of the hottest women on the planet, though. She's twice as hot in person.
She's ultra hot . But sux as a vocalist.
Best female vocals? Floor, Tatiana and Brittney... Best current metal band? Lovebites gets a vote from me. Picks up the best from 80s metal, and gives it a new refreshing twist. Recommend checking out their live video of "Set the world on fire" from 2021. That dual lead is so good.
@Huh epica sucks
@@SaltyAlaskan79 Funny to hear this from someone who can't even name 5 songs by Epica.
@@cancelled_user your mom is funny
Lovebites suck they are like bandmaid to satisfy and appeal for weeb fetishes.
They are great, i saw them live in Athens, Greece in July...
As Symphonic Metal is concerned, yeah Epica is the epitome of that genre, with Nightwish.
You really can't compare them to Metallica or Slayer or any American Metal Band for that matter.
Because most American bands are not Symphonic in their sound so i'll set them all apart from the ones actually doing Symphonic Metal right..
And Symphonic Metal is extremely difficult to pull off too..
At this point, i don't think you should include Nightwish here. Epica surpassed them a long time ago.
@@myracrystalhalilion9790 Nightwish kinda left symphonic metal for something more like folk metal. It is what it is, shouldn't discount their previous contributions to the genre. Who knows, Tuomas might get out of this phase and blow us away in the future.
@@rolsen1304 great thing. Eluveitie my other absolute favourite band are by far "The Kings of Folk Metal" 🤘🏻
@@rolsen1304 I will temper you hypeness about Nightwish, read in an interview with Tuomas that the new album will be in line with the latest ones and be part of a trilogy. I bought Human Nature CD, but I regret it of doing that because I skip half of the album which is just too mainstream for me and just not my thing anymore. Only good songs are for me are Shoemaker, Pan and Tribal.
@@fritsyt2090 Exact same songs for me, and honestly I haven't listened to the album beyond the week it released.
my fav summer live show was Infected rain i twisted my knee in the pit ouch they are so good live
you have to watch their "1000th concert, concert. i would have sold my soul to be there for that.
FWIW, sometimes backing tracks take something away from the live show for me. i was really disappointed by visions of atlantis during their recent tour with dragon force and 7 spires. like a cheap karaoke show. normally, the epica stage has like railroad tracks for the keyboardist to wander all around rolling his keyboard. and finally: TARJA FOREVER!
Simone, forever and ever.
Said no one.
LMAO, the way that I knew this title was going to trigger the Nightwish fans before I even clicked in.
Floor-bot's and Nightwish-trolls everywhere. They are like rabbits who pop out of their holes haha (there are really nice Nightwish fans too, my best friend is Nightwish die hard, but she start to love Epica more and more).
EPICA! EPICA! EPICA! LOL, we need an Epica army.
@@Beulzabob we have and we are called Epicans! Forever and ever! 🤘🏻
Epica is better tbh. I like nightwish however they are no longer symphonic metal band. They are pseudo symphonic metal with no orchestra or choir unlike in the past they sounded better.
@@kanashihito1214 Yeah, Nightwish is an amazing band, but I feel they are slipping recently. The covid break probably didn't help either. Floor is the main reason I'll watch their videos.
have you ever checked Septicflesh out? they are integrating orchestra in their music as a band member/intrsument...
@Huh i agree...the studio sound of septicflesh is a bit better. also i wasnt comparing them to Epica. their music is great but a lot less complex i think, maybe thats why SF sound messy. it;s just that many bands put the orchestral parts in their songs as an afterthought
Seen EPICA 5 times an amazing band
Gojira is it for me! Epica is great tho. But Simone does not always have the energie live. Saw them 5 times live.
For modern thrash, Lovebites definitely hold their own. They don't do a ton of thrash, but what they do is Big 4 caliber. Check out Set The world on fire live or Break The World live 2020. They have 2 lead guitarists, one inspired by Dimebag...women of my dreams. Can't really compare Epica to Metallica genre-wise, can you? Metallica's SFO gig closest you can get I guess but two different genres altogether. Just my opinion.
Awesome reaction
a new fav Crypta form the ashes live wacken 2022