Epica - The Classical Conspiracy
Nuclear Blast ( 2009 )
There have been various attempts to mix metal and orchestras and many of them were, in my opinion, less than impressive. This is altogether a different kettle of fish. For a start the music of Epica and orchestral music share many principles and therefore, a 40 piece orchestra and a 30 piece choir fit like a glove with the Dutch, and vice versa.

I must admit I never thought that drums could sound so outstanding with Verdi's Dies Irae, just as if the maestro, in a moment of futuristic divine revelation, had written an alternative score for future generations. It takes a special musical mind and sensitivity to put all this together, but then again we're talking about Epica. I can only imagine how spectacular the concert must have been! Close your eyes and you can get very close to the real thing.

This is a magnificent, exquisite and classic album that will send shivers down your spine and if, like me, you are of the emotional kind, tears to your eyes. Unmissable!