ALBUM REVIEW: Epica – ‘Aspiral’

Dutch symphonic metal giants Epica have traversed many diverse musical plains over their long-standing career. Now, with their ninth studio album Aspiral, renewal is the key theme that bleeds through the lyrical and thematic concepts and is also reflected throughout their music. The significance of the number nine is that its representative of spiritual growth and perfection. This significant milestone in Epica’s discography marks and celebrates their journey to this point. Aspiral is clearly identifiable as Epica. The band’s characteristic theatricalities produced through the strong use of orchestral instruments and choirs remains prominent and, of course, Simone Simons’ meticulous vocals showcase her technical prowess.

Epica invite us to Cross The Divide on a powerful opener establishing the tone of Aspiral with high intensity. The captivating blend of the orchestra with driving metal instruments, and Simone Simons’ enduring vocal doesn’t cease to evoke a sense of enchantment. Aspiral is undoubtedly a highly dynamic album, with the structures of the tracks rising and falling across maximalist and minimalist sections, venturing across seas of serenity but also through murky waters of chaos. Arcana demonstrates this with the contrast between the calmer verse arrangements which erupt into a theatrical chorus. The sound is immense comprised of layers of choired vocals and strings that soar alongside brass that boosts the low end. The sudden shift into the thundering breakdown outro injects a fierce and unexpected explosion of heaviness.

A sense of heroic grandeur arises through the progressions and vast textural composition of Darkness Dies in Light – A New Age Dawns Part VII. The addition of harsh vocals alongside the metal instrumentation emphasises the authoritative impact of the song. Movement is driven by the guitars in the verses carrying an electrifying element. Arriving at the breakdown, a shadow descends as fast-paced riffs and racing percussion bring an intense contrast to the soaring aspects of the song. The heaviness of this album is notably striking. The guitar tones have been elevated with a meatier, more modern-metal-esque tone. When the heaviness in this album is unleashed, it is done so menacingly. Obsidian Heart holds nothing back. The ludicrously heavy opening sees the metal side of Epica’s sound fully unchained. Guitars take the lead, holding a prominent space in the mix, while orchestration delivers an otherworldly backdrop. The haunting contrast of the slow and heavy with Simons’ ethereal vocals, rises into the all-powerful chorus; it’s certain to send shivers down your spine.

The darkness continues in Fight To Survive. Bringing a touch of the dystopian, relentless chugging guitars and staccato strings give way to a rhythmic and catchy chorus. The addition of fiery harsh vocals enhances the distorted textures amidst the dramatic breakdown. A moment of calm arrives in Metanoia – A New Age Dawns Part VIII, though the anticipation soon builds as the orchestration soon leads into a symphonic metal epic. The uncanny T.I.M.E. enraptures with an eerie lullaby. Filled with groove and movement, T.I.M.E. brings the unexpected encased in a dark and alluring offering. A ghostly manifestation awaits in Apparition. Its distortion fuelled introduction emerges into an intriguing concoction of tones and textures, including the most gorgeous and rich resonating full-bodied piano chords.

The enticing Eye Of The Storm incorporates an oriental feel—a side of Epica greatly explored in previous albums but less so in Aspiral. Strings soar while distortion grounds the sound, creating an emotive effect. The track’s distinctive melody hook evokes an uplifting feel. An awe-inspiring and dynamic soundscape awaits in The Grand Saga of Existence – A New Age Dawns Part IX. Journeying through a collection of moods, brighter and more muted tones, light and shade, it’s a thrilling exploration seeing the many facets of Epica’s sound collide. Amidst the anguish, there’s also a sense of triumph. Aspiral pays homage to its inspiration and namesake in the final offering—the title is derived from the 1965 work by Polish sculptor and painter Stanisław Szukalski, and a voice clip from the artist is also included in the track. The spectral piano, soft lead vocals and accenting strings is peaceful and angelic. Building into full strength, Epica’s fully encompassing sound soon dissipates leaving Aspiral with a delicate, dreamy end.

For fans of: Nightwish, Kamelot, Ad Infinitum

‘Aspiral’ by Epica is released on 11th April on Nuclear Blast Records.

Words by Holly Royle