After more than a decade away from the stage, the After Foreverone of the most iconic bands in symphonic metal Dutchman, announces his long-awaited return to the music scene. The band, which influenced a generation of musicians and fans, surprised the rock community with the confirmation of a new lineup. Despite the absence of the vocalist Floor Jansencurrently heading the Nightwishthe return promises to keep the essence that established After Forever alive.
The Importance of After Forever in Symphonic Metal
THE After Forever is a band that, since its founding, has stood out for its unique fusion of metal with orchestral elements and lyrical vocals, central characteristics of the symphonic style. With a solid base of fans around the world, the group has established itself as a reference in the genre, being one of the precursors alongside bands like Nightwish. The band’s return, even after so long, arouses great expectations.
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The official announcement of After Forever’s return was made on social media by the founding members Mark Jansen and Sander Gommans. The news quickly gained prominence among fans and critics, especially due to the lack of Floor Jansenwhich became one of the best-known names in the genre after its entry into the Nightwish. Even without Floor, fans were excited about what this new phase would bring.
New Band Formation
The new formation of the After Forever presents significant changes, starting with the vocalist. Angel Wolf-Blackknown for her work with the band She Wolfwas chosen to take on the vocals and has already been seen as a promise within the symphonic style. Angel’s choice keeps After Forever’s vocal proposal alive, which has always balanced power and technique with emotion.
Floor Jansen’s Legacy
Although Floor Jansen is not involved in the return of the After Foreverhis contribution to the band’s success is undeniable. Currently, she stands out as the vocalist of Nightwishone of the bands symphonic metal most popular in the world. Floor helped consolidate After Forever’s sonic identity during the years he was with the group, and his name will continue to be associated with the band’s history, even with this new phase.
The Role of Mark Jansen and Sander Gommans
Mark Jansen and Sander Gommansboth founders of After Foreverare central pieces in the structure of the band’s comeback. While Mark is also involved with the band Epicaanother giant of symphonic metal, he and Sander take on the role of guiding After Forever on their new journey, ensuring that the band’s original essence is preserved, even with line-up changes.
Other Members of the New Formation
In addition to the entry of Angel Wolf-Blackthe new formation of the After Forever features the guitarist Bas Maaswho was part of the band in the past, and the keyboardist Jeffrey Revetknown for his work in Stream of Passion. Their experience promises to add value to the band’s new phase, ensuring that fans recognize elements of the sound that won them over so much.
The Influence of Classical Albums
The return of After Forever comes at a symbolic time, as 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of the release of the band’s debut album, “Prison of Desire”. This album, along with “Decipher”helped shape the sound of symphonic metal contemporary. These masterpieces are often referenced by bands that emerged later, cementing After Forever’s lasting impact on the genre.
Missing the Classics
Even without Floor Jansenfans can expect time travel during the band’s comeback shows. After Foreverrevisiting classics like “Monolith of Doubt” and “Follow in the Cry”. The band promises to present a repertoire that celebrates the legacy built throughout its career, as well as possibly bringing new features that represent this new phase.
A New Chapter in Symphonic Metal
The return of After Forever represents a new era for the band and the symphonic metal. The genre, which continues to grow in popularity with bands like Nightwish and Epicagains reinforcement with the return of one of its precursors. The band is determined to show that even after a long break, they can still offer something relevant and exciting to their fans.
Expectations for the Shows
The first show of After Forever is already confirmed to take place in Netherlandsthe band’s hometown, in an event that promises to be historic. For long-time fans, it will be a unique opportunity to relive important moments in the band’s history, while new fans will have the chance to get to know the group’s new phase.
The Absence of Floor Jansen on the After Forever Stage
Even without Floor Jansenwho remains focused on her career with the Nightwishthe band trusts that Angel Wolf-Black will bring his own brand and charisma to the stage. Floor’s absence is felt, but After Forever seems willing to move forward, maintaining the musical quality that has always characterized it.
The Future of After Forever
With a new vocalist, a solid line-up and a respectable legacy, After Forever is ready to embark on a new chapter of his career. The band’s return marks an important moment for the symphonic metaland fans eagerly await to see what the future holds. Whether with new releases or revisiting your classics, the After Forever continues to be a major name in the rock and metal.
Summary for those in a hurry:
- After Forever returns to the stage after more than 10 years of hiatus.
- Floor Jansen will not be part of the return, as it is focused on Nightwish.
- The new vocalist will be Angel Wolf-Blackknown for her work in the band She Wolf.
- The band promises to revisit their classics and celebrate the legacy of symphonic metal.
- First shows already confirmed, with emphasis on the presentation at Netherlands.
- The return comes close to the 25th anniversary of the debut album “Prison of Desire”.
Source: Atrevida
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
