SIMONE SIMONS – Vermillion (2024)

SIMONE SIMONS has more than earned a place among the most prominent figures of the Symphonic Metal genre, as let’s be real, EPICA lead that category in the minds of many people. I recall reading about her intentions for a solo album for many years and I always wondered how it would sound, as it is not uncommon for solo efforts to end up as less imposing versions of an artist’s main band. The time has finally arrived, where that project was made possible time-wise between very busy schedules. The surprise was that “Vermillion” was completed in collaboration with AYREON as Arjen Lucassen wrote the music, which is interesting to say the least. 

No need to circle around, the sound of “Vermillion” takes elements from both EPICA and AYREON and blends them together for a unique result that could not easily exist outside of this solo album. From Simone’s band, what is borrowed are the Symphonic touches and her expertise on creating inspired vocal lines. Arjen brought all those experimental and progressive ingredients that are met in his works. 

The strength of the album is its extended focus on good melodies that flow either through the music, or as most of the times, through the voice of Simone who has the leading role. We are dealing with the most mature version of her, as all those years of experience have allowed her to build a great control over her voice. It helps that objectively, she has an amazing tone and the fact that she does not have to compete with many layers of choirs, making this the most “clean” way of experiencing her performance. There is no lack of choirs of course, still they are less utilized than one would expect, outside of the song ‘Aeterna’ that is full of them.  

We can’t describe this album as a good opportunity for a Heavy Metal getaway, as the Metal part is not the main attraction. Approach it as a high quality, melodic musical piece that chose a Metal mantle as its vehicle of expression. Honestly now, who listens to AYREON for their heaviness? We listen to them because Arjen is a very sincere, talented, down to earth and one of a kind artist that composes music like none other.

Each one has their own expectations when it comes to solo albums of their favorite artists and this collaboration deprives me from only one thing. Simone has covered pieces from Nightmare Before Christmas at least twice (‘Sally’s song’ with EPICA and a cover of ‘This is Halloween’) so on the back of my head I would like to witness a stronger emphasis on soundtrack and theatrical paths, like the one met in ‘Dark night of the soul’. This is not a complaint mind you, but more like a box in my personal imaginary wishlist. 

In the end “Vermillion” is a success because it does not move drastically far from the sound of EPICA, so it will not alienate Simone’s core fanbase. At the same time it has its own identity and more than justifies its existence as a solo album. Do not contain your enjoyment only in the released singles, as each song has its own style. It is a record that respects your time for as long as it lasts.

83/100

Pavlos Pavlakis