Epica & Amaranthe

Here’s the event page content for Epica & Amaranthe at Palladium Köln:

Epica & Amaranthe Unleash Symphonic Fury and Modern Metal Mayhem at Palladium Köln!

Prepare yourselves, metal aficionados! On Friday, 16 January 2026, the hallowed halls of Palladium Köln will reverberate with an unholy alliance of symphonic grandeur and electrifying modern metal as Dutch titans Epica and Swedish melodic metal maestros Amaranthe join forces for a truly unforgettable night. This is not merely a concert; it’s a dualistic spectacle, a seismic convergence of two of the most dynamic and captivating bands currently gracing the metal landscape. Fans can anticipate a breathtaking journey through intricate orchestral arrangements, soaring vocal harmonies, ferocious guitar riffs, and the relentless energy that defines both these exceptional acts. This co-headline tour promises a night where symphonic drama meets pure, unadulterated metal power, delivering a comprehensive and exhilarating experience for every attendee.

About Epica & Amaranthe

Epica, hailing from the Netherlands, have cemented their status as pioneers and undisputed queens of symphonic metal. Since their formation in 2002, led by the formidable Simone Simons, they have consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre, blending operatic vocals with crushing guitars, intricate orchestral passages, and thought-provoking lyrical themes that often delve into philosophical, social, and personal introspection. Their music is a meticulously crafted tapestry of bombastic soundscapes and raw emotional power, characterised by Simon’s angelic yet commanding voice weaving through Mark Jansen’s guttural growls and soaring melodies. Over their illustrious career, Epica has released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including “The Phantom Agony,” “Consign to Oblivion,” “Design Your Universe,” “Requiem for the Indifferent,” and their most recent opus, “The Holographic Principle.” Beloved hits such as “Cry for the Moon,” “The Obsessive Devotion,” “Storm the Sorrow,” “Edge of the Blade,” and “Omega” have garnered them a devoted global following and established them as a must-see live act, celebrated for their theatrical stage presence and impeccable musicality. Their performances are an immersive experience, transporting the audience to worlds of epic fantasy and profound reflection.

Meanwhile, Amaranthe, formed in Gothenburg, Sweden, in 2008, have carved out their own unique niche in the modern metal scene with their signature blend of melodic death metal, power metal, and pop sensibilities, all delivered with a dazzling, high-energy spectacle. What truly sets Amaranthe apart is their innovative vocal trio: the powerful operatic soprano of Elize Ryd, the soaring clean vocals of Nils Molin, and the brutal growls of former member (and current touring member) Andy Solveström, creating a dynamic vocal interplay that is both exhilarating and incredibly diverse. This unique vocal approach, combined with their infectious, anthemic songwriting, intricate instrumental work, and a penchant for vibrant stage production, has propelled them to international acclaim. Their breakthrough came with their self-titled debut album, and they have since released a string of highly successful records, including “The Nexus,” “Massive Addictive,” “Helix,” and “Manifest,” each showcasing their evolution and unwavering commitment to their distinctive sound. Chart-topping singles like “Hungry, Beautiful, Alive,” “Drop Dead Cynical,” “Maximalism,” “Boomerang,” and “Strong Ambitious Forever” have become fan favourites, renowned for their catchy hooks and explosive energy. Amaranthe are known for their electrifying live shows, a vibrant explosion of colour, light, and pure, unadulterated musical joy, leaving audiences breathless and exhilarated.

Venue Information

Palladium Köln stands as one of Cologne’s premier live music venues, renowned for its atmospheric charm and excellent acoustics. Housed in a historic building, it offers a grand setting for concerts, boasting a capacity that strikes a perfect balance between intimacy and spectacle. The venue is well-equipped to host large-scale productions, ensuring that every attendee, regardless of their vantage point, can enjoy a superb audio and visual experience. Its central location within Cologne makes it easily accessible, further enhancing the appeal for concertgoers. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a sonic and visual extravaganza that transcends the ordinary. Epica and Amaranthe are renowned for their electrifying stage presence, and this co-headline show promises to be no exception. Audiences can anticipate a carefully curated setlist that seamlessly blends the iconic anthems of both bands. From Epica’s majestic symphonic epics that transport you to realms of grand fantasy and profound introspection, expect powerful renditions of fan favourites like the sweeping drama of “Cry for the Moon,” the relentless intensity of “Cry for the Moon,” and the emotionally charged narratives of “The Obsessive Devotion.” Simone Simons’ breathtaking vocal prowess will undoubtedly be a highlight, commanding the stage with her ethereal grace and immense power, supported by the intricate musicianship of Mark Jansen and the band.

Amaranthe will counter with their signature brand of high-octane, modern melodic metal. Their set will be a vibrant explosion of energy, featuring their most infectious hits that are guaranteed to get the crowd moving. Prepare for singalong-inducing anthems like “Drop Dead Cynical,” the pulsating rhythms of “Boomerang,” and the undeniable charisma of “Hungry, Beautiful, Alive.” The unique vocal synergy between Elize Ryd, Nils Molin, and Andy Solveström will be on full display, creating a dynamic and unforgettable vocal tapestry. Expect dazzling light shows, impressive stage production, and the unparalleled energy that Amaranthe brings to every performance.

The combined performance is expected to last approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with each band delivering a substantial set, creating a comprehensive and exhilarating evening of metal mastery. This is a night for dedicated fans and newcomers alike to experience two distinct yet equally compelling facets of the metal genre, delivered with passion, precision, and an unwavering commitment to leaving the audience in awe.

FAQs

Q1: Will Epica and Amaranthe play full sets, or will this be a shorter joint performance?

This is a co-headline tour, meaning both Epica and Amaranthe will be performing substantial, full-length sets. You can expect each band to deliver a comprehensive showcase of their discography and live capabilities.

Q2: What is the expected setlist length for each band?

While exact setlist lengths can vary, both Epica and Amaranthe are known for delivering around 75-90 minutes of music per set. This ensures a lengthy and satisfying experience for all attendees.

Q3: Will there be any special guests or unique collaborations during the show?

While no specific guest musicians have been announced, both Epica and Amaranthe have a history of incredible stage chemistry. Their combined energy and vocal dynamics are often the highlight, but there’s always the possibility of unexpected moments that make live performances so special.

Q4: Is it likely that Epica will play songs from their older albums, or will the focus be on newer material?

Epica typically balances their setlists to include a mix of their classic hits and newer material. Fans can expect to hear beloved songs from albums like “The Phantom Agony” and “Consign to Oblivion,” alongside tracks from their more recent releases.

Q5: Given Amaranthe’s energetic performance style, what kind of crowd interaction should I expect?

Amaranthe are masters of crowd engagement. Their high-energy performances are designed to get the audience involved, with plenty of opportunities for singing along, dancing, and responsive energy. Prepare to be actively part of the show!

Q6: How long is the overall event expected to last, including intermissions?

The entire concert, including potential brief intermissions between sets, is anticipated to run for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. This provides ample time to enjoy the full experience of both Epica and Amaranthe.