Alcatraz Line up: 2010, 2018, 2021

The Netherlands have a unique tradition in terms of female-fronted metal bands with the likes of Delain, Izegrim, Within Temptation and ... Epica. Since 2002 they’ve been a staple on the Dutch metal scene. This Dutch symphonic metal band owes its popularity in large part to the contrast between the operatic vocal style of lead singer Simone Simons and founder Mark Jansen’s fierce grunts. Epica also features a Belgian lead guitarist with Isaac Delahaye, who was previously in God Dethroned and MaYaN. ‘The Phantom Agony’ (2003) got them off to a good start and they’ve kept growing artistically over the years. Their two last CDs in particular were really impressive. ‘The Quantum Enigma’ is a stunning return to form following the rather indifferent reception of ‘Requiem for the Indifferent’, with less intricate but much more effective tracks. Follow-up ‘The Holographic Principle’, builds on the heavier sound of its predecessor with more modern and darker compositions. Known for their visually attractive live shows, Epica have a huge following in Belgium so this is one to look out for!