Mixed by longtime Epica collaborator Joost van den Broek at Sandlane Recording Facilities, this session is a masterclass in nuanced integration. Joost’s known for his detail-focused workflow bridging symphonic depth and metal aggression, with credits spanning Powerwolf, Ayreon, and After Forever. His approach to spectrum management, intricate saturation layers, vocal stacking, and blending natural and sampled percussion is all on display here — including techniques to carve space for Simone Simons’ soaring leads against massive orchestral elements.

The core technical challenge: hundreds of tracks requiring controlled dynamic range without sacrificing energy or headroom. You’ll see how Joost uses sidechain relationships, selective parallel chains, and precise phase alignment to keep this intense composition emotionally dynamic while locked into a tight, heavy foundation. It’s also a chance to dissect a real-world strategy for orchestral-hybrid mixes that doesn’t collapse under its own weight.

Download the multitracks for “T.I.M.E.” and push your arrangement management, depth-building, and mastering headroom techniques further. Advanced producers will find this session both demanding and rewarding. This is symphonic metal at full throttle — and it’s yours to dissect.