Epica is a Dutch symphonic metal band formed by Mark Jansen in 2002 after leaving After Forever. The group quickly gained recognition for blending powerful orchestral arrangements and operatic choirs with heavy metal, incorporating elements from genres such as death, progressive, thrash, groove, black, and power metal. Their music is further distinguished by influences from Arabic and world music traditions, and at times features electronic and folk-inspired touches from Middle Eastern, Chinese, and Celtic melodies. Vocal contrasts are central to Epica's sound, highlighted by Simone Simons’s soaring soprano vocals and Mark Jansen’s growls, set against complex, melodic instrumentation. Their lyrics explore a wide range of themes, including philosophy, psychology, spirituality, science, and contemporary global issues. Since their debut album The Phantom Agony in 2003, Epica has released several acclaimed records, including The Divine Conspiracy, Design Your Universe, and Omega, earning chart success throughout Europe, the US, and Japan. Their mix of symphonic grandeur and metal intensity has established them as one of the leading acts in modern symphonic metal.