Epica – The Classical Conspiracy: Live In Miskolc, Hungary

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Recorded live at a special concert in Miskolc (the same place Therion recorded their orchestra show) with a 40-piece orchestra and 30-piece choir The Classical Conspiracy is split into two parts. The first consists of Epica’s interpretations of several well-known classical pieces and movie scores, while the second is a short set of Epica songs. Unfortunately both are disappointing. The sound quality and the band’s performance are both excellent, and while neither part of the show is particularly poor, they don’t manage to justify their existence either. The first half, lacking as it does any vocals, could be just about any metal band at all. Without being told, it’s not obvious that it’s Epica playing along with the orchestra, it could absolutely anyone. The tracks are interesting, as metal versions of non-metal music always is, but fans expecting to hear Epica’s identity stamped all over them will be disappointed. It’s with relief then that the show turns it’s attention to new arrangements of Epica’s own songs. Unfortunately the orchestra adds nothing to these. The songs are hardly any different and are not given that extra dynamic layer other bands have achieved by playing with orchestras. For these reasons, even though the band are good and the recording is good, this album is mostly a failure.

Written by Andy Lye
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