Epica Interview 2009
Sara Letourneau chats with Vocalist Simone Simons

Epica is undoubtedly one of the biggest and most respected names in female-fronted metal these days. And so far 2009 has proven to be their year. Their latest album “Design Your Universe” has received rave reviews from fans and critics alike and is selling well in Europe and the U.S. In fact, “Design Your Universe” debuted in mid-November on the U.S. Billboard Heatseekers Chart at #12 and on the Hard Music Albums Chart at #47. And to top it off, Epica’s recent European headlining tour was a big success, selling out in several cities.

Now, Epica is gearing up for a busy winter, touring South America in December and North America in January and February. Just days before Epica flew out to South America, Sonic Cathedral’s Sara Letourneau talked with Epica frontwoman Simone Simons about the new album, the upcoming shows, and the band’s evolution. Read on to learn more!

Autumn Interview

Sara Letourneau chats with Marjan Welman of Autumn

2009 has proved to be a definitive year for Autumn. With growing confidence, the Dutch atmospheric rock/metal band released its fourth album “Altitude,” an inspiring and slightly progressive evolution from 2007’s “My New Time.” Since then, Autumn has been busy with shows all across the Netherlands, some summer festivals, and a recent club tour in Germany. Audiences have received “Altitude” with open arms, yet there’s one new element they’ve embraced even more fondly: The voice and presence of new singer Marjan Welman.

In Early October, Sara Letourneau of Sonic Cathedral chatted with Marjan about all things pertaining to Autumn. There was plenty to discuss: “Altitude,” the band’s active touring schedule, upcoming events, even some reflections on the band’s international following and the difficulty of filling the shoes of former Autumn singer Nienke de Jong. Read on to learn what Marjan had to say about all this and much more.