Sounds | Epinikion - Lessons in Life (Are for Free)

De Nederlandse symfonische metalband Epinikion komt op 6 februari a.s. met hun tweede album, The Force of Nature. Kwam eerder al de gelijknamige eerste single uit, nu is het de beurt aan het tweede indrukwekkende voorproefje van komend album: Lessons in Life (Are for Free). 

Lessons in Life (Are for Free) draait volledig om de kracht van meebewegen met de stroom — het volgen van de natuurlijke loop van het leven, in het vertrouwen dat dáár onze belangrijkste lessen verscholen liggen. Die levenslessen zijn overal om ons heen en voor iedereen beschikbaar, zolang we er maar oog voor hebben. “Het enige wat we hoeven te doen, is ze herkennen en ermee aan de slag gaan zodra ze ons pad kruisen,” vertelt Renate de Boer, songwriter van Epinikion.

Lees

EPINIKION was initially conceived in 2020 as an ambitious Rock opera project by Robert Tangerman and Renate de Boer. Two years later, their debut “Inquisition” was self-released, a concept album, conveying the tale of a woman who stood trial for heresy in Zeeland during the Eighty Years’ War, characterized by its complex structure and profound storytelling. The band now consists of vocalist Kimberley Jongen, guitarist Robert Tangerman, keyboard player Renate de Boer, lead guitarist Maarten Jungschläger, bassist Rutger Klijn, and drummer Michal Gis, who together merge their individual styles into a powerful, harmonious soundscape, shaping EPINIKION’s distinctive sound.

The twelve tracks on “The Force of Nature” are based on stories and experiences from songwriter Renate de Boer, whose background as a psychologist provides deep insights into the human soul, as well as the decisions individuals face. The first single and title track bursts with unbridled energy, featuring driving guitar riffs and expressive vocals. “The Force of Nature“ centers on a strong-willed character who firmly declares leaving its dark past behind and refusing to be controlled by others anymore. The music video, superbly directed by Jay Dee Video, amplifies the epic impact of the song. In the lyric video for the second single “Lessons in Life (Are for Free)”, produced by Marnix Darwinkel, the song’s message of hope and the power to shape one’s own path is portrayed symbolically and atmospherically. Filigree keyboard and guitar arrangements highlight the fragility and beauty of life. With “Your Ultimate Joy”, EPINIKION address a toxic relationship where respect has long been lost, and abuse and sadistic behavior must finally come to an end. Dynamic guitars, powerful drums, and tension-filled arrangements make the internal conflict tangible in every note. In “Don’t Wake Up the Dead”, the six musicians urge to release negativity and take responsibility for humanity, rather than succumbing to the influence of materialism and consumerism. With the third single “Run with the Wolves”, EPINIKION pay tribute to nature and its elements – water, fire, earth, and air – celebrating the bond between humans and animals with the energy of our planet. Musically, they ignite an exhilarating spectacle full of melody, carried by pulsating rhythms and grand orchestration, also skillfully staged by Jay Dee Video. “What Goes Up Must Come Down” conveys optimistic moments, where powerful guitar riffs, hymnal harmonies, and Kimberley Jongen’s striking, nuanced vocal performance reflect inner strength and personal growth.

EPINIKION are ready to present their new material on stages worldwide, delivering rousing live shows full of energy and passion. Fans of epic, intricately arranged Symphonic Metal should not miss “The Force of Nature”. The album invites fans on a fascinating, unforgettable musical journey filled with drama, emotion, and orchestral intensity, showcasing EPINIKION at the peak of their creative power.