Epica – Aspiral
Nuclear Blast Records
8,0/10,0
Brief:
The journey of growth follows a spiral, continuously widening and deepening with every cycle. By sticking to this fundamental principle, symphonic metal innovators Epica have again reinvented themselves on their ninth effort, Aspiral. The new studio album shows a band brimming with a newfound joy. Make way for a masterclass in storytelling, grandeur, and timeless melodies.
The album title is derived from the eponymous bronze statue made by Polish sculptor and painter, Stanisław Szukalski back in 1965. It stands for renewal and inspiration – keywords that define Epica in 2025. In Szukalski’s work every detail is a piece of art on its own and there’s always more to the story than you initially think.
The band saw this as the perfect analogy for the creation of this album: each song stands on its own with a distinctive vibe and meaning, while together they enforce each other into a monumental effort.
At the same time this symbolizes Epica’s group dynamic throughout this process: they have encouraged, inspired, and challenged each other repeatedly. Determined to achieve something that is greater than the sum of its parts, they left no stone unturned in their search for perfection. If it’s up to creative people to push boundaries, then this sextet sure did just that.
Epica destroys old underlying patterns to re-invent themselves and to create a bold new era for symphonic metal in general. The band felt the immense urge to focus on what really matters: emotions and melodies.
If the number 9 represents divinity, perfection, and spiritual growth, then this album is the modern interpretation of just that. Musically, lyrically, and visually.
This album shows their commitment to the game, distilling the very heart of the trademarks they are known for. Everything about “Aspiral” feels like a reminder that passion is energy.
[Edited Press Release]
Tracklist:
- Cross the Divide 4:18
- Arcana 5:02
- Darkness Dies in Light (A New Age Dawns, Part VII) 7:59
- Obsidian Heart 5:04
- Fight to Survive – The Overview Effect 5:02
- Metanoia (A New Age Dawns, Part VIII) 7:17
- T.I.M.E. 3:58
- Apparition 4:12
- Eye of the Storm 4:43
- The Grand Saga of Existence (A New Age Dawns, Part IX) 6:50
- Aspiral 5:39
Main Focus Tracks:
- Arcana 5:02
- Obsidian Heart 5:04
Other Recommended Tracks:
- Cross the Divide 4:18
- Darkness Dies in Light (A New Age Dawns, Part VII) 7:59
- Fight to Survive – The Overview Effect 5:02
Line-Up:
Simone Simons – lead vocals
Mark Jansen – harsh vocals, rhythm guitar, orchestration
Isaac Delahaye – lead guitar, backing vocals
Rob van der Loo – bass
Coen Janssen – keyboards, synthesizers, piano, orchestration
Ariën van Weesenbeek – drums, backing vocals
Comments:
Epica’s symphonic and modern heavy metal is in line with the current productions of the genre, without revolutionizing it, but respecting the established conventions enough to be effective. It’s worth listening to.
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Selected Discography:
The Phantom Agony – 2003
Consign to Oblivion – 2005
The Score – An Epic Journey – 2005
The Divine Conspiracy – 2007
Design Your Universe – 2009
Requiem for the Indifferent – 2012
The Quantum Enigma – 2014
The Holographic Principle – 2016
Omega – 2021
Aspiral – 2025
Photo Credit: Tim Tronckoe