Apocalyptica and Epica are two symphonic metal bands that have gained worldwide recognition for their unique blend of classical and heavy metal music. Both bands have been active for over two decades, and they have released several critically acclaimed albums and performed in numerous concerts and festivals around the world.
Apocalyptica was formed in 1993 in Helsinki, Finland, by four cellists who shared a love for heavy metal music. The band’s early works consisted of instrumental covers of famous rock and metal bands, including Metallica and Slayer. However, they later started incorporating vocals into their songs and collaborating with guest singers, including Corey Taylor from Slipknot and Adam Gontier from Three Days Grace.
Apocalyptica’s music is characterized by their use of classical instruments, such as cellos and a grand piano, combined with heavy metal elements, such as distorted guitar riffs and heavy drums. The result is a unique sound that is both elegant and intense. Some of the band’s most popular songs include “I Don’t Care” “Bittersweet” and “Not Strong Enough“
Epica, on the other hand, was formed in 2002 in the Netherlands by guitarist and songwriter Mark Jansen. The band’s music is also characterized by the use of classical instruments, such as a grand piano and a choir, combined with heavy metal elements, such as guitars and drums. However, their music is more symphonic and theatrical than Apocalyptica’s, with a strong emphasis on vocals and storytelling.
Epica’s lyrics often deal with themes of spirituality, mythology, and social issues, and their music is influenced by classical composers, such as Mozart and Bach. Some of the band’s most popular songs include “Cry for the Moon” “The Phantom Agony” and “Storm the Sorrow“
Despite their different approaches to symphonic metal music, Apocalyptica and Epica have collaborated in the past and have even toured together. Their joint concerts have been highly praised by fans and critics alike, who appreciate the unique and epic sound that the two bands create together.
The Helsinki-based band Wheel is another example of a successful Scandinavian-British musical collaboration, next to Hexvessel. The group was founded in the capital of Finland in 2015, and the British James Lascelles (vocals, guitar) and three representatives of the Land of a Thousand Lakes – Saku Mattila, Mikko Määttä and Santeri Saksala were responsible for it. Shortly after, the gentlemen recorded a three-track EP, which they called “The Path EP“. The material was released in 2017 and it can be heard that the quartet attaches great importance to the sound, arrangement and flavors, unusual divisions, poly rhythmic structures. The most important thing, however, was that all the intricacies of the studio can be perfectly reflected during live performances.
