The Standard System - A review of Epica's ''The Solace System''

Epica has established and solidified its brand of symphonic metal and doesn't move one inch away from it. The Holographic Principle was nearly a copy of its predecessor The Quantum Enigma minus the atmospheric world music elements. The Solace System now offers six songs that were recored during the sessions for The Holographic Prtinciple. As you might have guessed, the six new songs offer nothing new in the Epica universe.

What you get here is omnipresent bombastic symphonic metal with epic classical music passages, bombastic choirs and one of the genre's most talented female lead singers. Add a few harsh vocals here and there to spice things up and the usual ballad to calm things down. The powerful production only adds to the emotional and intellectual roller coaster ride. While the record is as predictable as it gets, one has to admit that the band stagnates on an elevated level and offers six entertaining tracks without any filler material. Some of the songs are actually better than several tunes from The Holographic Principle that were at some points almost exact copies from songs from The Quantum Enigma. 

Therefore, I would rather recommend buying the compact The Solace System for a reasonable price than an overlong full length effort with noticeable lengths. The Solace System basically represents Epica in a nutshell. If you haven't bought one of the band's records yet, you can grab this release to get a great idea of what they sound like. The numerous faithful fans of the group can't go wrong here either. Those who were hoping that Epica would take the chance to try out something new will be disappointed. Those who have never liked the band, won't be converted by this release either. The bottom line is that The Solace System is good for what it is, no more, no less.

Final rating: 74%