Epica

Epica is a Dutch symphonic metal band founded by guitarist and vocalist Marc Jansen subsequent to his departure from After Forever. They are known for their symphonic sound and the use of female vocals and male growls performed by Simone Simons and Mark Jansen, respectively. All six members write the music, but Mark Jansen and Simone Simons write most of the lyrics.

Delain

Delain was founded by Martijn W and Charlotte Wessels. Westerholt is the ex-keyboardist and brother of one of the founders of Within Temptation, Robert Westerholt. Wessels was, at that time, an unknown singer living near Westerholt. They started Delain, as a project involving many of Westerholt's friends in the Symphonic Metal Community, in 2002, and began recording the debut album in July 2005, after they had signed a contract with Roadrunner Records.