Requiem for the Indifferent cover

Requiem for the Indifferent

Epica · 2012

78 min · 14 tracks · symphonic metal

Epic orchestration melds with heavy guitar riffs, creating a dramatic soundscape that explores themes of conflict and existential despair.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Monopoly on Truth Start here — This track stands out with its blend of heavy riffs and symphonic elements, tackling themes of manipulation and control within society. Its compelling structure showcases Epica's trademark complexity and lyrical depth.
  • →
    Deep Water Horizon — Reflecting on environmental disasters, this song combines poignant lyrics with a powerful orchestral arrangement, making it both a commentary on contemporary issues and a showcase of the band's musical prowess.
  • →
    Serenade of Self-Destruction — A hauntingly beautiful track that encapsulates the album's exploration of internal struggles, blending operatic vocals with intricate instrumentation to create an emotionally charged experience.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album's ambitious orchestration and vocal dynamics create a compelling symphonic metal experience.

What we noticed

  • The album features extensive orchestral arrangements that complement the heavy guitar riffs, creating a layered soundscape.
  • Several songs incorporate interludes of instrumental passages that build tension before returning to full instrumentation.
  • The final track is notably longer than the others, concluding the album with an expansive orchestral finish.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • layered, dense sonic textures
  • gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Noted for its ambitious composition and significant acclaim in Epica's catalog.
Themes
societal critique· environmental despair· orchestral aggression
Career context
Released on March 9, 2012, 'Requiem for the Indifferent' was Epica's fifth studio album, following their previous effort, 'Design Your Universe.' This album marked a period of consolidation for the band as they solidified their place in the symphonic metal genre while also experimenting with complex arrangements and darker themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Nightwish· Within Temptation· Kamelot

Tracklist

  • 1 Karma 1:32
  • 2 Monopoly on Truth Start here 7:11
  • 3 Storm the Sorrow 5:12
  • 4 Delirium 6:07
  • 5 Internal Warfare 5:12
  • 6 Requiem for the Indifferent 8:34
  • 7 Anima 1:24
  • 8 Guilty Demeanor 3:22
  • 9 Deep Water Horizon 6:32
  • 10 Stay the Course 4:25
  • 11 Deter the Tyrant 6:37
  • 12 Avalanche 6:52
  • 13 Serenade of Self-Destruction 9:55
  • 14 Twin Flames 5:02

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata