Epica & Amaranthe

Epica & Amaranthe Live at Haus Auensee, Leipzig - Saturday, 7 March 2026

Prepare yourselves for an electrifying double-header as symphonic metal titans Epica and the melodic powerhouse Amaranthe descend upon Leipzig for a night of unparalleled musical intensity. On Saturday, 7 March 2026, the iconic Haus Auensee will play host to a sensational concert that promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for fans of both exceptional bands. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a convergence of two distinct yet equally compelling forces within the modern metal scene, offering a diverse and thrilling sonic journey that will leave you breathless. From Epica’s grand symphonic arrangements and Simone Simons’ soaring vocals to Amaranthe’s infectious blend of modern metal, pop sensibilities, and three-part vocal harmonies, this event is meticulously crafted to showcase the very best of what contemporary heavy music has to offer. Get ready to be swept away by intricate melodies, powerful riffs, breathtaking vocal performances, and a stage show that will ignite your senses.

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About Epica & Amaranthe

Epica: Masters of Symphonic Metal Grandeur

Hailing from the Netherlands, Epica have carved an indelible legacy as one of the most influential and revered symphonic metal bands of the 21st century. Since their formation in 2002, led by the visionary guitarist and vocalist Mark Jansen, Epica have consistently pushed the boundaries of their genre, weaving intricate orchestral arrangements with crushing guitar riffs and Simone Simons’ signature operatic vocals. Their music is renowned for its thematic depth, often exploring philosophical, environmental, and socio-political issues with a lyrical complexity rarely found in heavy music. This intellectual prowess is married with a theatrical flair that makes their live performances true spectacles.

Over their illustrious career, Epica have released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including “The Phantom Agony” (2003), “Consign to Oblivion” (2005), “The Divine Conspiracy” (2007), “Design Your Universe” (2009), “Requiem for the Indifferent” (2012), “The Quantum Enigma” (2014), and their latest masterpiece, “Omega” (2021). Their discography is a testament to their artistic evolution, consistently delivering powerful anthems and captivating ballads that showcase their unwavering commitment to musical excellence. Notable hits like “Cry for the Moon,” “The Obsessive Devotion,” “Design Your Universe,” “Storm the Sorrow,” and the epic “The Holographic Principle” demonstrate their mastery of both the accessible and the complex. Live, Epica are an unstoppable force, renowned for their dynamic stage presence, the sheer power of their musicianship, and Simone Simons’ mesmerising vocal delivery, which effortlessly transitions from delicate beauty to formidable strength.

Amaranthe: Pioneers of Modern Melodic Metal

Swedish-Danish outfit Amaranthe have revolutionised the melodic metal landscape since their inception in 2008. Their unique sound is a daring and remarkably successful fusion of high-octane modern metal, blistering guitar work, and electrifying electronic influences, all underpinned by a groundbreaking three-part vocal attack. Olof Mörck (guitar, keyboards), Johan Lundgren (guitar), and Morten Løwe Sørensen (drums) provide the formidable metal foundation, while the distinct vocal talents of Elize Ryd (clean vocals), Nils Molin (harsh vocals and clean vocals), and Mikael Sehlin (harsh vocals) create an unparalleled vocal tapestry. This intricate layering of styles results in music that is both incredibly powerful and undeniably catchy.

Amaranthe’s career is marked by a series of chart-topping albums, including their self-titled debut (2011), “The Nexus” (2013), “Massive Addictive” (2014), “Maximalism” (2016), “Helix” (2018), and their most recent release, “The Catalyst” (2020). Their ability to seamlessly blend aggressive metal with irresistible pop hooks has garnered them a massive international fanbase. Anthems such as “Hungry,” “Amaranthine,” “Drop Dead Cynical,” “Dynamite,” “Maximize,” and “The Catalyst” have become staples of modern metal radio and festival stages worldwide. On stage, Amaranthe are a force of nature. Their performances are characterised by relentless energy, infectious enthusiasm, and a joyous celebration of their unique musical vision. The interplay between their vocalists, the thunderous rhythm section, and the shredding guitars creates a truly electrifying atmosphere, making every Amaranthe show a high-energy spectacle.

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Venue Information

Haus Auensee, a beloved cultural hub in Leipzig, provides the perfect backdrop for this monumental metal extravaganza. Nestled within the picturesque Clara-Zetkin-Park, this historic venue boasts a rich heritage of hosting significant musical events and artistic performances. Its intimate yet spacious atmosphere allows for a truly immersive concert experience, ensuring that every fan, whether at the front of the pit or further back, feels connected to the pulsating energy emanating from the stage. The venue is known for its excellent acoustics and a dedicated team committed to providing a memorable and comfortable experience for all attendees. With its accessible location and impressive capacity, Haus Auensee is well-equipped to handle the seismic energy that Epica and Amaranthe are set to unleash. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

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What to Expect

Prepare for an evening of sheer sonic mastery as Epica and Amaranthe join forces at Haus Auensee. This co-headline billing guarantees a night packed with diverse musical styles and breathtaking performances, catering to every facet of modern metal appreciation.

Setlist Highlights: While the exact setlists are always a thrilling surprise, anticipate a carefully curated selection that spans the extensive and celebrated discographies of both bands. For Epica, expect to be transported by the epic scope of their symphonic anthems. Tracks like the fan-favourite “Cry for the Moon” are almost guaranteed to send shivers down your spine, while the powerful hooks of “Design Your Universe” or the intricate grandeur of “The Phantom Agony” will showcase their unparalleled musicianship. From “The Quantum Enigma,” you might witness the captivating “The Essence of Silence,” or from “Omega,” the formidable “The Skeleton Key” could feature. Simone Simons’ vocal prowess will undoubtedly be a central highlight, her voice soaring over complex orchestral arrangements and crushing guitar solos. Mark Jansen’s commanding presence and the band’s tight, powerful musicianship are sure to ignite the crowd.

Amaranthe, on the other hand, will bring an explosion of vibrant energy and infectious hooks. Their set will undoubtedly be a high-energy journey through their most beloved hits. Prepare for the irresistible drive of “Hungry,” the pop-infused brilliance of “Amaranthine,” and the sheer adrenaline rush of “Drop Dead Cynical.” Their recent material, such as the dynamic “The Catalyst,” is also likely to feature, demonstrating their continued evolution. The unique magic of Amaranthe lies in their extraordinary vocal trio. The seamless interplay between Elize Ryd’s powerful clean vocals, Nils Molin’s versatile range, and Mikael Sehlin’s guttural growls creates a sonic experience unlike any other. Coupled with their tight instrumental backing, their performance is a masterclass in modern melodic metal, guaranteed to get you moving and singing along.

Performance Style: The combined performance style of Epica and Amaranthe promises a dynamic and visually engaging show. Epica are known for their theatrical and grand stage presence, often featuring elaborate lighting and a commanding command of the stage that perfectly complements their complex musical arrangements. Their performances are a journey, taking the audience through a spectrum of emotions, from the deeply introspective to the overwhelmingly triumphant. Amaranthe, in contrast, are synonymous with infectious energy and a palpable sense of joy. Their stage shows are vibrant, dynamic, and brimming with the charisma of their performers, who engage the crowd with every note and move. The contrast between Epica’s grandiosity and Amaranthe’s high-octane enthusiasm will create a captivating and varied live experience. Expect a seamless transition between the two bands, each leaving their indelible mark on the Haus Auensee stage.

Duration: This is a full-scale concert event, and attendees can anticipate a substantial duration. With two headline bands each delivering substantial sets, combined with any potential intermissions or stage changes, the total concert experience is expected to run for approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. This ensures ample time for both Epica and Amaranthe to showcase their extensive catalogues and deliver the unforgettable performances that have cemented their status as global metal icons.

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FAQs

Q1: Will Epica and Amaranthe play joint songs or have guest appearances on each other’s sets? While both bands are known for their collaborative spirit and occasional guest spots in the wider music scene, a joint performance on stage during this co-headline tour is not explicitly announced. However, the energy and excitement generated by having both bands on the same bill might inspire some spontaneous moments of camaraderie. Fans can expect two full, distinct headline sets showcasing each band’s unique strengths.

Q2: How long will each band’s set be? As this is a co-headline event, each band is expected to deliver a substantial headline-length set. While exact timings can vary, you can anticipate each band playing for approximately 60-75 minutes, providing ample opportunity to hear a wide range of their celebrated songs.

Q3: Is Simone Simons of Epica confirmed to perform? Yes, Simone Simons is the iconic lead vocalist of Epica and is confirmed to be performing with the band during their tour. Her extraordinary vocal talents are a cornerstone of Epica’s sound and a major draw for their live performances.

Q4: Does Amaranthe have different vocalists in their live lineup compared to their studio recordings? Amaranthe’s distinctive sound is built upon their unique vocal team. Elize Ryd, Nils Molin, and Mikael Sehlin are the core vocalists you hear on their albums and are also their consistent live performers, ensuring the authentic Amaranthe experience on stage.

Q5: Are there opportunities for VIP packages or meet-and-greets with Epica or Amaranthe? Information regarding VIP packages, including potential meet-and-greet opportunities, is typically released closer to the event date or through official band channels and ticketing partners. We advise keeping an eye on the official Epica and Amaranthe websites and their social media for any announcements regarding exclusive experiences.

Q6: What is the recommended arrival time for the Epica & Amaranthe concert? Given the popularity of both bands and the venue’s capacity, it is highly recommended to arrive well in advance of the advertised start time. Aim to arrive at least 90 minutes to 2 hours before the doors officially open to allow ample time for security checks, finding your position, and soaking in the pre-show atmosphere without feeling rushed.