Simone Simons Unveils Cosmic Themes in the Single ‘Aeterna’ from ‘Vermillion’ Album

Simone Simons has been influential in the symphonic metal genre for over two decades. As the lead singer of Epica, she has garnered admiration and respect, becoming a pivotal figure for female metalheads globally. Following eight studio albums and extensive international tours with Epica, Simons has ventured into solo territory with her debut album, ‘Vermillion’ set for release on August 23rd via Nuclear Blast Records, introducing its first single, ‘Aeterna.’ This long-anticipated release captures her extensive musical journey and diverse influences, spanning prog-rock, film scores, metal, and electronic music.

Simons’ foray into solo work has been a patient and deliberate endeavor. She explains that Epica was her priority and that she always had the liberty to pursue other musical projects. However, she never had the time to immerse herself in a project to this extent. Her collaboration with Arjen Lucassen, known for his work with Ayreon, reflects a thoughtful and measured approach to her solo career. Lucassen, a seasoned musician with a prolific portfolio, brought his expertise to the project, ensuring the music retained its distinct styles while forging new creative paths.

Simons and Lucassen’s partnership began five years ago, driven by a shared vision and mutual respect. She fell in love with Ayreon’s music when she was a teenager, and it had always been her dream to work with Lucassen. They communicated sporadically due to our busy schedules. However, finally, the timing was right for both of them, and the result is ‘Vermillion,’ a work that blends their unique musical backgrounds into a cohesive and compelling whole.

The contributions of Simons, the lead vocalist of the Dutch band Epica, have profoundly enriched the world of symphonic metal. Known for her remarkable mezzo-soprano voice, Simons has played an instrumental role in shaping the band’s sound and artistic direction since its inception.

Epica was formed in 2002 by Mark Jansen following his departure from After Forever. The band initially went by the name Sahara Dust but soon rebranded to Epica, inspired by Kamelot’s album of the same name. Jansen’s vision was to create a band that combined the grandeur of classical music with the intensity of metal, and he found the perfect partner in Simons, whose classically trained voice could navigate the demanding compositions he envisioned.

Simons, born in 1985 in Hoensbroek, Netherlands, joined Epica at the age of seventeen. Her early musical influences included a range of genres, from classical to rock, which she seamlessly integrated into her vocal style. Her ability to convey deep emotion and power through her singing quickly became one of Epica’s defining features.

Epica’s debut album, ‘The Phantom Agony’ (2003), set the tone for the band’s future work. Combining symphonic elements with gothic and metal influences, the album was well-received critically and commercially. Simons’ voice was a central element of the band’s sound, her operatic technique blending seamlessly with Jansen’s growling vocals and the heavy instrumentation.

The thematic content of ‘The Phantom Agony’ often touched on philosophical and spiritual themes, a trend that would continue throughout Epica’s discography. The band’s second album, ‘Consign to Oblivion’ (2005), drew inspiration from the Mayan culture, exploring themes of mortality and the afterlife. Simons’ vocal performance on tracks like ‘Solitary Ground’ and ‘Quietus’ demonstrated her growing confidence and range, further establishing her formidable presence in the symphonic metal genre.

With each subsequent release, Epica continued to refine and expand their sound. Albums like ‘The Divine Conspiracy’ (2007) and ‘Design Your Universe’ (2009) showcased the band’s increasing complexity and ambition. These albums featured intricate orchestral arrangements and a more prominent use of choir vocals, enhancing the epic scope of the music.

Simons’ role within the band also evolved during this period. Her voice became more versatile, capable of delivering delicate, ethereal melodies and powerful, dramatic passages. This versatility is evident in songs like ‘Unleashed’ and ‘Martyr of the Free Word,’ where Simons’ vocals convey various emotions and nuances.

One of the most significant milestones in Epica’s career came with the release of ‘The Quantum Enigma’ (2014). This album marked a turning point for the band, both musically and thematically. Embracing a more modern production style, the album featured tighter compositions and a more cohesive sound. Thematically, ‘The Quantum Enigma’ explored the intersections of science and spirituality, reflecting a more introspective and philosophical approach.

Epica’s music is deeply embedded with cultural and philosophical references, reflecting both Jansen’s and Simons’ interests in these areas. Simons has often cited her fascination with ancient civilizations, mythology, and existential themes as significant influences on her lyrical contributions. This is evident in songs like ‘Kingdom of Heaven’ and ‘The Holographic Principle,’ where the lyrics delve into profound questions about existence and the nature of reality.

Simons’ ability to interpret and express these complex themes through her vocal performances is a testament to her skills as an artist. Her singing not only enhances the emotional impact of the music but also provides a narrative thread that guides the listener through the conceptual landscape of each album.

Epica’s work has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase worldwide. The band’s ability to blend heavy metal with classical music and philosophical themes has set them apart in the symphonic metal genre. Simons, in particular, has been praised for her vocal prowess and stage presence, earning recognition as one of the leading figures in metal music.

An interesting aspect of Simons’ career is her role as a female artist in a predominantly male genre. Her success with Epica has challenged stereotypes and opened doors for other female musicians in metal. In an interview with Revolver Magazine, Simons discussed the challenges she faced as a woman in the industry, noting that while progress has been made, there is still work to be done to achieve true equality and representation.

Simons’ advocacy for gender equality extends beyond her music. She is known for her active engagement with fans on social media, where she often discusses issues related to gender, identity, and empowerment. This engagement has helped to create a supportive and inclusive community around Epica, fostering a sense of belonging among fans.

Simons’ journey with Epica is a declaration of her talent, dedication, and artistic vision. Through her powerful and emotive vocal performances, she has helped to shape the sound of symphonic metal, pushing the genre in new and exciting directions. The band’s exploration of cultural and philosophical themes has added depth and complexity to their music, making it both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

‘Vermillion’ showcases Simons’ versatility as a vocalist, traversing operatic heights, symphonic metal, atmospheric passages, and alternative rock. Lucassen highlights this range, stating that from the beginning, he wanted to capture the many facets of Simons’ voice: the soft, seductive side, the classical opera style, and the powerful belts. She could do it all, and this album flaunts that diversity. Simons attributes much of this achievement to their collaboration, noting that Lucassen is a master of creating magical melodies and that his music is emotional and melancholic, and he pushed her to new heights with this album.

Recorded in Lucassen’s home studio in the Netherlands over several sessions, ‘Vermillion’ gradually evolved into a robust and varied body of work. Thematically united by the color red, the album balances heavy and atmospheric elements, incorporating industrial sounds and progressive influences. Lucassen emphasizes the importance of vocal melodies and chord progressions, ensuring each song has a distinctive groove.

Lyrically, ‘Vermillion’ explores various themes, from contemporary issues like artificial intelligence and environmental degradation to personal reflections and relationships. Each track presents a narrative rich with Simons’ personal experiences and insights, providing a therapeutic outlet for the artist and a resonant experience for listeners. Simons remarked that music is therapy for both the artist and the listener. They learn and grow through similar life situations, and she is grateful to channel her love for life and art through music, making people feel something profound.

The album also features contributions from a notable roster of guest musicians. Alongside Lucassen, bassist Rob van der Loo and drummer Koen Herfst, Alissa White-Gluz of Arch Enemy adds her vocals on ‘Cradle to the Grave,’ Perttu Kivilaakso of Apocalyptica lends his cello to ‘Dark Night of the Soul,’ and Epica’s Mark Jansen provides growls on ‘The Core’ and ‘R.E.D.’ These collaborations infuse the album with a rich diversity of sounds and textures.

‘Vermillion’ is a compelling addition to Simons’ discography, offering a multifaceted exploration of her artistic range. From the expansive ‘Aeterna’ to the introspective ‘In Love We Rust’ and the industrial-tinged ‘Cradle to the Grave,’ the album is a journey through Simons’ musical and emotional landscape. It is a sincere and, at times, heart-wrenching album; she recently stated that if they give people goosebumps, make them bang their heads, and maybe shed a tear, they have succeeded. Lucassen and her brought out the best in each other with ‘Vermillion.’ The album proves her patience, vision, and artistry, rewarding listeners with a rich and evocative experience.

On the other hand, the debut single ‘Aeterna’ serves as a powerful introduction to the album, featuring an evocative music video directed by Patric Ullaeus. This track stands out for its blend of Epica and Ayreon’s signature sounds, incorporating robust Latin lyrics and a hint of oriental influence. Simons and Lucassen have meticulously balanced the grandiose and atmospheric elements, making it a striking opening piece.

The song delves into a star’s perspective on the brink of a supernova, exploring the intricate connections within the universe. It touches on profound themes such as emotions, consciousness, and life’s mysteries that remain beyond scientific explanation. This cosmic reflection underlines our shared origins, as encapsulated in Carl Sagan’s phrase, “made of starstuff.” With ‘Aeterna,’ Simone and Lucassen invite listeners on a journey through the cosmos, setting the tone for the rest of the album.