EPICA

Released in 2003, 'Epica' is the sixth studio album by symphonic power metal band Kamelot. It follows very closely to its predecessor, 2001's 'Karma', with more focus on symphonic elements and orchestrations, as well as a stronger sense of melody and more polished song-writing, stepping away more and more from the traditional power metal style of their early albums, and into something a lot more epic and grandiose.

With a similar sound and production as before, 'Epica' sounds as rich and lavish as 'Karma'. The musicianship is tight, with everyone performing to a high standard, and in particular, praise goes to vocalist Roy Khan for his powerful and emotional performances.

With highlights including 'The Edge of Paradise', 'Center of the Universe', 'Lost and Damned', 'A Feast For the Vain' and the beautiful 'Wander', there's an abundance of great tracks here, and if you liked 'Karma', there's no reason you won't like this. And ultimately, this will lead to the next album, because if you like the direction Kamelot are heading in here, then you'll certainly love what's to come?