Epica & Amaranthe

A Night of Symphonic Metal and Modern Power: Epica & Amaranthe Live in Barcelona

Prepare yourselves for an unforgettable fusion of symphonic grandeur and electrifying modern metal as Dutch titans Epica and Swedish sensation Amaranthe join forces for a spectacular co-headline show at Razzmatazz 1 in vibrant Barcelona on Friday, 30 January 2026. This is not just another concert; it’s a meticulously curated journey through two of the most dynamic and influential forces in contemporary heavy music. Expect a night where soaring operatic vocals clash with blistering guitar riffs, intricate symphonic arrangements intertwine with infectious danceable rhythms, and a shared passion for pushing musical boundaries culminates in a truly exhilarating live experience. Whether you’re a seasoned follower of symphonic metal’s dramatic intensity or drawn to the cutting-edge blend of electronic and metal elements, this double bill promises to deliver a performance that will resonate long after the final note fades.

About Epica & Amaranthe

Epica, led by the formidable Simone Simons, have cemented their status as undisputed queens of symphonic metal since their inception in 2002. Hailing from the Netherlands, the band has consistently delivered a potent blend of epic orchestral arrangements, soaring operatic vocals, and blistering death metal growls, all underpinned by a profound lyrical exploration of philosophical, social, and existential themes. Their music is a grand tapestry, woven with intricate guitar work, driving rhythms, and soaring choirs, creating a sound that is both majestic and intensely powerful. Over their illustrious career, Epica have released eight critically acclaimed studio albums, each showcasing their evolution and unwavering commitment to their signature sound. Notable hits such as the anthemic “Cry For The Moon” from their debut, the powerful “The Obsessive Devotion”, and the more recent, chart-topping singles like “The Skeleton Key” and “Rivers” from their latest offering, The Alchemy Project, demonstrate their enduring ability to captivate audiences with their ambitious compositions and Simone Simons’ captivating vocal prowess. Their live performances are renowned for their theatricality, precision, and an unwavering energy that transforms every venue into a cathedral of sound.

Joining them on this monumental tour are the trailblazers of modern melodic metal, Amaranthe. Formed in 2008, this Swedish powerhouse has carved a unique niche for themselves with their signature sound that seamlessly blends the aggressive power of metal with the infectious energy of pop and electronic music. The defining characteristic of Amaranthe’s sound is their tripartite vocal attack: the melodic clean vocals of Elize Ryd, the powerful guttural growls of Mikael Sehlin (who replaced original growler Andy Solveström in 2022), and the dynamic screams of Nils Molin. This vocal diversity, coupled with razor-sharp guitar riffs, pulsating electronic beats, and soaring synth melodies, creates a sound that is both exhilaratingly modern and undeniably heavy. Amaranthe’s discography boasts a string of successful albums, including fan favourites like The Nexus, Maximalism, and Manifest, from which anthems such as “Hungry For More”, “Drop Dead Cynical”, and the universally beloved “Amaranthine” have become staples of their electrifying live shows. Their performances are a masterclass in energy and engagement, a vibrant spectacle of relentless rhythm and melodic hooks that consistently leaves audiences breathless and begging for more.

Venue Information

Razzmatazz 1 in Barcelona is one of the city’s premier live music venues, known for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent acoustics. With a capacity that allows for an intimate yet powerful concert experience, it’s the perfect setting to witness the sonic might of Epica and Amaranthe. Its central location makes it easily accessible for both local fans and international visitors. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a sonic odyssey that spans nearly four hours, showcasing the distinct yet complementary strengths of both Epica and Amaranthe. Each band will deliver a full, commanding set, ensuring you receive the absolute best of both worlds. Epica’s performance will transport you to a realm of epic storytelling and intricate musicianship. Expect to be swept away by the grandeur of their symphonic arrangements, the raw emotion in Simone Simons’ vocals, and the sheer power of their ensemble. Their setlist will undoubtedly weave a path through their extensive catalogue, featuring powerful renditions of fan favourites such as “Cry For The Moon”, the dramatic intensity of “The Phantom Agony”, and the cathartic release of “Consign To Oblivion”. You can anticipate moments of breathtaking beauty juxtaposed with crushing heaviness, a testament to their mastery of the symphonic metal genre. The band’s stage presence is both commanding and engaging, with Simone Simons commanding attention with her captivating vocal delivery and elegant stagecraft, while the instrumentalists deliver a technically brilliant and viscerally impactful performance.

Following Epica’s majestic journey, Amaranthe will explode onto the stage, igniting the room with their unique brand of modern melodic metal. Their set is a guaranteed explosion of energy, driven by their relentless rhythm section, electrifying guitar solos, and the unforgettable interplay of their three vocalists. You’ll be treated to an unforgettable display of their signature sound, with guaranteed performances of their most infectious hits like “Drop Dead Cynical”, the soaring “The Nexus”, and the crowd-pleasing “Hungry For More”. Expect a vibrant and dynamic stage show, characterised by infectious danceable beats, powerful anthems, and a high-octane energy that encourages enthusiastic participation from the audience. The seamless transitions between Elize Ryd’s angelic melodies, Mikael Sehlin’s ferocious growls, and Nils Molin’s potent screams will leave you in awe of their vocal dexterity and the sheer infectiousness of their sound. Together, these two powerhouse performances promise a night of unparalleled musical excellence and unforgettable live entertainment, a true celebration of the diverse and powerful landscape of modern heavy music.

FAQs

Will Epica and Amaranthe play full sets each? Absolutely. This is a co-headline show, meaning both Epica and Amaranthe will perform extensive, full-length sets, giving fans the ultimate concert experience from each band.

What is the expected duration of the concert? You can anticipate a substantial musical offering, with the entire event, including both bands’ sets and any necessary changeovers, likely to last in the region of three to four hours.

Will Simone Simons and Elize Ryd perform any songs together? While both artists will showcase their individual strengths, a specific collaboration between Simone Simons and Elize Ryd for a joint song during the main sets is not typically a feature of these co-headline tours, though surprise guest appearances are always a possibility in live music.

Can I expect to hear Epica’s older material or primarily new songs? Epica are known for honouring their extensive discography. You can expect a well-rounded setlist that includes beloved classics from their earlier albums alongside powerful tracks from their more recent releases, ensuring a comprehensive representation of their musical journey.

Will Amaranthe’s setlist feature songs from Mikael Sehlin’s era? Yes, Amaranthe are expected to prominently feature songs from their albums with Mikael Sehlin, showcasing their current vocal dynamic. However, their setlists are typically a blend of their most popular tracks across their entire career.

Is the venue accessible for attendees with disabilities? Razzmatazz 1 is committed to accessibility. For specific details regarding accessible viewing areas, facilities, and any required assistance, please refer to the venue’s dedicated accessibility information, which can be found on their official website or in our comprehensive venue guide.