Epica have always struggled with the ‘new Nightwish‘ given that the focal point of their music has been the operatic soprano vocals of frontwoman Simone Simmons. The band have continuously quested to shake that tag off by producing album after album to define a distinct writing style that blends progressive, death and symphonic metal layered with diverse vocals and almost ancient melodies reminiscent of the Mayan ages. While Epica continued to succeed with this writing philosophy when it very much became apparent with 2007’s ‘The Divine Conspiracy‘, they have absolutely hit the nail on the head with 2014’s ‘The Quantum Enigma‘.

The album is Epica’s most well-written and well produced record to date, flowing from start to finish with a progressive concept that is matched with a consistent musical theme. Death-like drumming, epic symphonies, heavy riffing and a full flurry of vocals run ravenous on the record with each song having a distinct peak of interest to keep you entertained and amazed from start to finish. Tracks like ‘Victims of Contingency‘ and ‘The Quantum Enigma – Kingdom of Heaven Part II –‘ are defining tracks of one of the most well-rounded albums of 2014.

‘The Quantum Enigma‘ is certainly a high runner for album of the year, but it still has to compete with so much great music that has been released in 2014.

If you fancy decoding your Enigma this Christmas then pick up the album here!