In summer 2018, Epica won a competition organized by the Dutch Grammy award-winning Metropole Orkest, the first prize being the recording of a song of their choice with the orchestra.

In between a heavy touring schedule, Epica managed to record a “big band meets symphonic metal” version of their song “Beyond The Matrix” from their latest album “The Holographic Principle”. As a bonus for all fans who voted, Arjen Lucassen from Ayreon contributed with a guest solo. 

“Epica vs Metropole Orkest – Beyond The Matrix – The Battle” will be released on October 26th and is available as limited edition vinyl and digital download.

Meanwhile, watch the music video for “Beyond The Matrix” below.