EPICA – “REQUIEM FOR THE INDIFFERENT”
NUCLEAR BLAST (2012)
When Mark Jansen, lead guitarist and founding member of the Dutch Symphonic Metal quintet Epica, decided to relieve Helena Michaelsen (Trail Of Tears) of her duties in favour of the virtually unkown mezzo-soprano Simone Simons back in 2002, he probably did so thinking that he was mainly giving his then girlfriend a much-deserved break.
Little did he know that this redhead with an angelic voice would not only become an integral part of this musical ‘organism’ but also one of the leading figures of what many music journalists and music fans like to describe as the female-fronted metal scene. It is really from the position of power and ever-increased popularity that the Dutch outfit is about to release its fifth studio album “Requiem For The Indifferent” – one which needs to preserve the band’s upward momentum.
Even though it is a good five years since I last wrote a review for an Epica release (see 2007’s “The Divine Conspiracy”), I vividly remember thinking that, all being well, it would not be long before the Dutch quintent would reach such levels of quality that would enable them to openly compete with bands like Nightwish.
Well, some of you may well disagree with what I am about to say but I believe that the time in question has finally arrived in the shape of a thirteen track album full of passionate vocal performances, epic-sounding orchestral arrangements and unbelievably-varied rhythmical themes. Yes, ladies and gentlemen: Epica circa 2012 is a totally different beast – a blood thirsty ‘monster’ full of confidence, ready to devour anyone who challenges them or stands in their way.
Opening the album with the one and a half minute epic orchestral theme “Karma” was a very clever decision indeed, especially when the intension is to continue with the prog-inclined, Therion-influenced composition “Monopoly On Truth” – a song that quite early on portrays Epica as a trully technically skilful band.
The first song that stole my heart is the five minute “Storm The Sorrow”, featuring a beautiful melodic piano tune and equally impressive theme in the refrain, while “Delirium” stands out as a track that brings together in unison a huge variety of different styles and sounds. Fans of bombastic Symphony X sounding arrangements will love “Internal Warfare”, while the same-titled “Requiem For The Indifferent” will appeal as much to fans of Therion as it will to those of most melodic female-fronted bands.
Following the orchestral intro “Anima”, songs like “Guilty Demeanour”, “Deep Water Horizon” and “Stay The Course” reveal more of the band’s musical charms, while the complexity and dexterity of the six and a half minute “Deter The Tyrant” make it a true highlight. By the end of the dark melodic themes of “Avalance”, I thought I had heard the best of the album’s offerings, but Epica saved the absolute best for the end. “Serenade Of Self-Destruction” is, simply put, one of the best melodic compositions ever performed by a female vocalist – a song filled with outstanding piano melodies, haunting orchestral arrangements, epic-sounding choral themes and riffs of enormous power, worthy of respect!
Five years ago Epica were a group of highly skilled musicians who were aiming to reach the top spot of a highly-saturated scene – a place that they have finally occupied, having invested all their energy and passion along the way. It will not be long before the Dutch quintet have to consider preserving this position, but until then, Epica can relax and enjoy this glorious achievement! Well done!
John Stefanis
Rating: ****1/2 (4.5/5.0)
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