Epica & Amaranthe

Epica & Amaranthe Live at Forest National, Brussels

Prepare for an unforgettable evening of symphonic metal grandeur and melodic modern metal intensity as Dutch titans Epica join forces with Swedish powerhouse Amaranthe for a spectacular co-headline show at Brussels’ iconic Forest National on Sunday, 18 January 2026. This is a rare and thrilling opportunity to witness two of the most formidable forces in modern extreme metal share the same stage, promising a night that will resonate with fans of soaring vocals, intricate musicianship, and earth-shattering riffs. The sheer calibre of talent on display, combined with the renowned atmosphere of Forest National, guarantees an experience that will be etched in your memory long after the final note fades.

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About Epica & Amaranthe

Epica: Formed in the Netherlands in 2002, Epica have ascended to the pinnacle of the symphonic metal scene, captivating audiences worldwide with their unique blend of operatic vocals, powerful orchestral arrangements, and blistering metal aggression. Led by the phenomenal vocal talents of Simone Simons, whose soaring soprano is matched by her captivating stage presence, Epica crafts epic soundscapes that explore profound themes of philosophy, mythology, and social commentary. Their music is characterised by its grandiosity, incorporating choirs, string sections, and a rich tapestry of instrumentation beneath a foundation of heavy, driving guitars and thunderous drumming. Over their illustrious career, Epica have released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including “The Phantom Agony,” “Consign to Oblivion,” “The Divine Conspiracy,” “Design Your Universe,” “Requiem for the Indifferent,” “The Quantum Enigma,” “The Holographic Principle,” and their latest masterpiece, “Omega.” Their live performances are renowned for their theatricality, intricate production, and an unwavering commitment to delivering a powerful and emotionally resonant experience. Notable hits that have cemented their status include the anthemic “Cry for the Moon,” the darkly beautiful “The Obsessive Devotion,” the epic “Storm the Sorrow,” and the powerful “Cry of a Dying World.” Epica’s music is a testament to the enduring power of ambition and artistic integrity, consistently pushing the boundaries of what symphonic metal can achieve.

Amaranthe: Hailing from Sweden, Amaranthe burst onto the international metal scene in 2010, immediately distinguishing themselves with their innovative and infectious “modern metal” sound. Their signature style is a captivating fusion of melodic death metal growls, soaring operatic vocals, and irresistibly catchy electronic and pop-influenced hooks. This unique tripartite vocal attack, typically featuring the clean vocals of Elize Ryd, the guttural growls of Nils Molin (who also contributes clean vocals), and the rapping/screaming of Olof Mörck, creates a dynamic and multifaceted vocal tapestry. Amaranthe’s music is characterised by its relentless energy, vibrant synthesizers, and incredibly accessible yet undeniably heavy guitar riffs. Their albums, such as “Amaranthe,” “The Nexus,” “Massive Addictive,” “Maximalism,” “Helix,” and “Manifest,” have consistently delivered anthemic choruses and an exhilarating sonic experience. Live, Amaranthe are a force of nature, known for their high-energy performances, infectious enthusiasm, and their ability to get any crowd moving. Their live shows are a testament to their masterful blend of extreme metal intensity and radio-friendly melodies, offering a vibrant and exhilarating spectacle. Essential tracks that showcase their electrifying appeal include the high-octane “Hunger,” the triumphant “Drop Dead Cynical,” the soaring “That Song,” and the powerful “Digital World.” Amaranthe have redefined modern metal with their bold experimentation and unwavering commitment to pure, unadulterated enjoyment.

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Venue Information

Forest National, located in Brussels, Belgium, is a premier indoor arena renowned for hosting a diverse range of major international concerts and sporting events. With a capacity that ensures an electric atmosphere, the venue boasts state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, perfectly suited to accommodate the scale and intensity of a co-headline show featuring Epica and Amaranthe. Its strategic location within Brussels makes it easily accessible for fans travelling from both within Belgium and across Europe. The arena’s design prioritizes a fantastic viewing experience from all seating and standing areas, allowing every attendee to feel fully immersed in the performance. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

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What to Expect

Get ready for a night that will push the sonic boundaries and ignite your senses. Epica and Amaranthe are not merely performing their songs; they are curating an experience. Expect a powerful and dynamic evening, where the symphonic grandeur of Epica seamlessly transitions into the high-energy modern metal of Amaranthe, creating a journey through diverse yet complementary sonic landscapes.

Setlist Highlights: While setlists are always subject to the artists’ final decisions, you can anticipate a career-spanning selection from both bands. For Epica, this will undoubtedly include beloved anthems like “Cry for the Moon,” the emotionally charged “The Obsessive Devotion,” and potentially newer, equally impactful tracks from their latest albums. Be prepared for the majestic orchestrations, the soaring vocals of Simone Simons, and the intricate musicianship that define their live performances. Amaranthe are guaranteed to unleash their infectious energy with crowd-pleasers such as “Hunger,” “Drop Dead Cynical,” and “That Song.” Their set will be a vibrant explosion of catchy hooks, dual vocal fireworks, and driving rhythms that are designed to get the entire audience on their feet. The beauty of a co-headline show lies in the contrast and synergy – witness the epic, sweeping narratives of Epica complemented by the electrifying, modern anthems of Amaranthe, each band bringing their distinct flavour to the stage.

Performance Style: Both Epica and Amaranthe are celebrated for their electrifying stage presence. Epica are known for their theatricality, often incorporating dramatic lighting and visual elements that enhance the epic scope of their music. Simone Simons commands the stage with grace and power, her performance a mesmerising blend of vocal prowess and captivating artistry. The band as a whole delivers a tight, polished performance, showcasing their exceptional musicianship and their deep connection with their audience. Amaranthe, on the other hand, are pure, unadulterated energy. Their shows are a high-octane spectacle, filled with vibrant lights, dynamic movement, and an infectious enthusiasm that is truly contagious. The interplay between their vocalists – Elize Ryd’s powerful clean vocals, Nils Molin’s versatile range, and Olof Mörck’s driving presence – creates a visually and sonically engaging performance. Expect a relentless pace, an abundance of crowd interaction, and a palpable sense of joy radiating from the stage. The combination of these two distinct yet complementary performance styles promises a night of continuous exhilaration.

Duration: This is a full-scale event designed to leave you breathless. While precise timings will be confirmed closer to the date, expect a substantial programme. Each band will deliver a headlining-worthy set, meaning you are looking at an evening that will likely run for a considerable duration, offering ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the exceptional music and artistry of both Epica and Amaranthe. It’s a marathon of metal, designed for maximum enjoyment.

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FAQs

Q1: Will Epica and Amaranthe perform full sets? Yes, as this is a co-headline show, both Epica and Amaranthe will be delivering substantial, headlining-length sets. You can expect each band to perform a comprehensive selection of their most popular and impactful songs.

Q2: Will there be any special guests or collaborations between Epica and Amaranthe during the show? While no official announcements have been made regarding collaborations, the nature of co-headline shows can sometimes lead to surprise guest appearances or unique on-stage moments. However, fans should primarily expect each band to present their own distinct and powerful performances.

Q3: What is the best way to get tickets for this event? Tickets will be available through official ticketing partners. We recommend checking our website and social media channels for direct links to purchase tickets once they go on sale to ensure you are buying from legitimate sources.

Q4: Are Epica and Amaranthe suitable for fans new to symphonic or modern metal? Absolutely. While both bands are established titans in their respective genres, their music often possesses a strong melodic sensibility and accessibility. Epica’s orchestral elements and Simone Simons’ vocals are incredibly captivating, while Amaranthe’s blend of catchy hooks and energetic metal makes them highly engaging for a broad audience. This show is an excellent introduction to the diverse world of modern metal.

Q5: Can I expect any merchandise for Epica and Amaranthe at the venue? Yes, it is standard practice for bands of this calibre to have dedicated merchandise stands at their concerts. You can expect to find a wide range of official band merchandise available for purchase, including t-shirts, hoodies, albums, and other exclusive items.

Q6: What is the general atmosphere like at an Epica or Amaranthe concert? Concerts featuring Epica are typically marked by a sense of awe and shared appreciation for powerful, intricate music and stunning vocals, fostering a passionate and engaged audience. Amaranthe concerts are renowned for their vibrant, high-energy atmosphere, with crowds enthusiastically singing along, dancing, and feeding off the band’s infectious exuberance. This co-headline event promises a dynamic blend of both intense, appreciative fandom and exhilarating, party-like energy.