Epica: Biography

• Overview
• Discography
• Biography
• Related Artists

• Angel
• Lacuna Coil

• Hans Zimmer
• Danny Elfman

• Aerium

Genres:

Rock Music, Progressive Rock Music, Adult Contemporary Rock Music

Originally calling themselves Sahara Dust, The Netherlands' Epica formed in early 2003 when After Forever guitarist Mark Jansen decided to break away and start an operatic metal project all his own. After drafting teenaged mezzosoprano Simone Simons, guitarist Ad Sluijter, keyboardist Coen Jansen, bassist Yves Huts and drummer Jeroen Simons, Epica entered Wolfsburg, Germany's Gate Studio with a classicallytrained choir and string section to lay down their ambitious debut The Phantom Agony. Released by Transmission Records in late 2003, it was licensed for American release by The End Records early the next year.

- Ed Rivadavia, All Music Guide