The Dutch symphonic/gothic metal band is founded in 2002 under the name Sahara Dust by composer Mark Jansen (ex-After Forever), with Helena Michaelsen (ex-Trail Of Tears) on vocals. After a short period, she was replaced by young female singer Simone Simons and the band released their demo Cry For The Moon. In early 2003 the band changed the name to Epica. Initial bandmembers besides Jansen and Simons are Ad Sluijter (guitar), Jeroen Simons (drums), Coen Janssen (keys) and Yves Huts (Axamenta, drums).
Former band members:
Ad Sluijter (Guitar)
Jeroen Simons (Drums)
Yves Huts (Bass)