Review Summary: Everything you want from an Epica album.
Critics may argue what Epica album this sounds most like, but I hear melodies that are quite reminiscent of 2009’s Design Your Universe. However, much has changed since then. Notably, Omega is host to a rather impressive orchestral effort. The band can sound like The Prince of Egypt or Moana, (or you name it) which is entertaining, providing distinction between songs. The production is fantastic, with a sharp sound that manages to balance a hundred instruments, while focusing on a solid, metal punch (that breakdown in Abyss of Time - Countdown to Singularity - is nasty). The music is entirely cheesy and cinematic in scope, in the same vein as the band Kamelot, but what else is new? It’s the symphonic metal you know and love. The only unfortunate point to mention is how little Omega differentiates itself from previous albums.
Omega will not change your mind about Epica. The talented musicianship still impresses, and Simone Simons sounds as pretty as she ever did, giving a timelessly classy performance that is difficult to compete with. The death metal growls are vastly improved from the olden days, as are the symphonic elements. The guitars also remain thunderous (the riff in The Skeleton Key knocked me off my chair and reminded me of The Divine Conspiracy, bringing an almost gothic tone), while the drummer continues to kick the bass pedals into oblivion. Epica are still on the rise, and remain one of the more unforgettable symphonic metal bands of our generation, simply because they are that good. I might skip a Xandria release, but I wouldn’t skip Epica for the world. Omega may not be a hugely different release from the band, but it is a stunning achievement. This is an altogether enjoyable album that seamlessly combines the old and new. It is a beautiful tribute, and I dare say one of their best albums.
