Epica & Amaranthe

Epica & Amaranthe: A Symphonic Metal Spectacle at Bristol Beacon

Prepare for an electrifying night as two titans of modern symphonic and melodic metal, Epica and Amaranthe, join forces for a sensational co-headline performance at Bristol’s iconic Bristol Beacon on Tuesday, 20 January 2026. This is not just another concert; it’s a convergence of distinct yet complementary sonic forces, promising a night of soaring melodies, brutal riffs, and unforgettable vocal prowess. Fans of intricate arrangements, powerful narratives, and sheer musical dynamism will be treated to an evening that showcases the very best of contemporary metal. The pairing of these two acclaimed bands offers a unique opportunity to experience two different facets of the genre, united by a shared commitment to musical excellence and captivating stage presence.

About Epica & Amaranthe

Epica, the Dutch masters of symphonic metal, have carved a monumental path through the global music scene since their formation in 2002. Led by the formidable operatic vocals of Simone Simons and the masterful growls and intricate songwriting of Mark Jansen, Epica crafts epic, often conceptual, albums that delve into profound themes ranging from philosophy and religion to social and environmental issues. Their music is characterised by its grand orchestral arrangements, soaring choral passages, blistering guitar work, and a relentless rhythmic foundation. Over their illustrious career, Epica has released eight studio albums, each a testament to their evolving sound and unwavering artistic vision. Notable hits such as “Cry for the Moon,” a fan-favourite from their debut, “The Phantom Agony,” the anthemic “Consign to Oblivion,” and the more recent, powerful “The Holographic Principle” from their 2016 album, showcase their ability to blend raw aggression with breathtaking beauty. Their live performances are renowned for their sheer scale and intensity, with intricate lighting, elaborate stage setups, and the band’s palpable passion for their craft leaving audiences spellbound. Epica’s dedication to exploring complex lyrical themes, coupled with their unparalleled musicality, has cemented their status as one of the most important and influential bands in symphonic metal.

Joining them are the Swedish melodic metal phenomenon, Amaranthe. Since their inception in 2008, Amaranthe have distinguished themselves with their groundbreaking fusion of electronic, pop, and extreme metal elements, creating a sound that is both accessible and intensely heavy. Their signature three-vocalist approach, featuring the clean, soaring melodies of Elize Ryd and Nils Molin, alongside the guttural growls of Mikael Sehlin, creates a dynamic and captivating vocal tapestry. Amaranthe’s music is characterised by its infectious energy, driving electronic beats, razor-sharp guitar riffs, and an undeniable sense of melodicism that has earned them a dedicated global fanbase. Hits like the electrifying “Hungry,” the instantly catchy “Drop Dead Cynical,” and the powerful “That Song” from their 2020 album Manifest demonstrate their knack for crafting anthems that resonate with a broad audience. Their live shows are celebrated for their high-octane energy, vibrant stage presence, and the seamless integration of their electronic and metal components, creating an immersive and exhilarating experience for every attendee. Amaranthe’s innovative approach to metal, their unwavering positivity, and their commitment to delivering electrifying performances have made them a unique and beloved force in the contemporary music landscape.

Venue Information

Bristol Beacon stands as a beacon of culture and creativity in the heart of Bristol, a city renowned for its vibrant arts scene. This world-class venue has undergone a significant transformation, emerging as a state-of-the-art destination for live music, performance, and community engagement. With a commitment to providing exceptional acoustics and a welcoming atmosphere, Bristol Beacon offers a truly immersive experience for concert-goers. Its diverse range of spaces can accommodate audiences of all sizes, ensuring an intimate yet grand setting for this unmissable metal spectacle. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Attendees of this co-headline extravaganza can anticipate an evening that pulsates with power, precision, and raw emotion. Both Epica and Amaranthe are known for their technically proficient musicianship and their ability to connect with their audience on a profound level. Epica is expected to deliver a setlist that traverses their extensive discography, likely featuring beloved classics like the epic balladry of “The Essence of Silence” and the crushing intensity of “Cry for the Moon.” Fans can also look forward to powerful renditions of tracks from their latest albums, showcasing their continued evolution and songwriting prowess. Expect a visual spectacle to accompany their sonic journey, with striking lighting designs and the band’s characteristic stage presence that conveys the grandeur of their symphonic soundscapes.

Amaranthe, on the other hand, will undoubtedly bring their signature high-energy performance to the Bristol stage. Their setlist will be a whirlwind of infectious hooks and powerful riffs, sure to include crowd-pleasing anthems such as “Maximalism,” “Amaranthine,” and their latest earworms. Their distinctive three-vocalist dynamic will be on full display, creating a captivating interplay of soaring cleans and brutal growls that define their unique sound. Amaranthe’s performances are synonymous with an electric atmosphere, often involving dynamic stage movements and a palpable connection with the audience, encouraging singalongs and enthusiastic participation.

The combined duration of the performances, including any potential intermissions, is anticipated to be in the region of three to three and a half hours, offering a substantial and thoroughly satisfying concert experience. This is more than just a gig; it’s an event that celebrates the diverse and exciting landscape of modern metal, delivered by two bands at the pinnacle of their careers. Prepare for a night where symphonic grandeur meets melodic ferocity, leaving you with memories of breathtaking performances and thunderous applause.

FAQs

Q1: Will there be separate set times for Epica and Amaranthe, or will it be a joint performance? This is a co-headline event, meaning both Epica and Amaranthe will perform full headline sets. There will be dedicated performance times for each band, likely with a brief intermission between their sets. Specific timings will be announced closer to the event.

Q2: Can I expect Epica to perform songs from their latest album, The Alchemy Project? While The Alchemy Project is a collaborative album and not a traditional Epica studio release, the band often incorporates material from their most recent studio efforts into their live shows. It’s highly probable that you will hear tracks from their latest studio album, Omega, and potentially some deeper cuts that showcase their continued musical exploration.

Q3: Amaranthe are known for their energetic stage shows. Can I expect a lot of audience interaction and dancing? Absolutely! Amaranthe’s live performances are renowned for their vibrant energy and crowd engagement. Their melodic and electronic-infused metal is designed to get audiences moving, so expect plenty of opportunities for dancing and singing along to their infectious anthems.

Q4: Are there any specific age restrictions for this event at Bristol Beacon? Bristol Beacon typically has a general admission policy, but it’s always advisable to check the specific ticketing information for this event. Generally, concerts of this nature are open to all ages, though parental guidance may be recommended for younger attendees due to the nature of the music and potentially late finish times. Please refer to the ticketing provider for definitive age restrictions.

Q5: What kind of merchandise can I expect to be available from Epica and Amaranthe? Both bands typically offer a wide range of merchandise, including band t-shirts, hoodies, posters, and sometimes exclusive items like vinyl records or signed merchandise. It’s highly recommended to visit the official merchandise stalls at the venue during the event to explore the full selection.

Q6: Is there any chance of acoustic or stripped-down versions of songs in either band’s set? While Epica and Amaranthe are primarily known for their full-force electric performances, it is extremely rare for them to perform acoustic or stripped-down versions of their songs within their standard festival or headline setlists. Their live shows are designed to showcase the full power and production of their music.