Earlier this year, Epica was all set to tour the US in support of their latest record, The Quantum Enigma [review]. After unfortunately being cancelled on by Machine Head due to complications with their record release, the Netherlands’ foremost symphonic power metal band struck out on their own as a headliner with Switzerland’s folk metal outfit Eluveitie and metalcore Canucks The Agonist.

Unfortunately, due to a family emergency, Epica frontwoman Simone Simons had to return home in a rush and the band did not perform any of their scheduled shows on the tour. Luckily, Eluveitie and The Agonist were stalwart enough to carry on and put on some powerful performances that were quite a bit longer than if three bands were performing.

Solid sets from both The Agonist, now sporting Vicky Psarakis as their leading lady, and Eluveitie, who outdid themselves from the last time they were in the Chicago area. The Agonist’s lighting situation, however, left something to be desired as there were nothing but red lights coming from the front, washing out a lot of our images. Eluveitie’s lighting was choice, though, which produced some very lovely photos! Check them out below!

The Agonist

Eluveitie

For more from this photographer, visit Kyle Gaddo on Flickr.

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