After Forever

The Profile

After Forever were a Dutch metal band formed in 1995, known for fusing symphonic and progressive elements with an early gothic edge. Fronted by Floor Jansen, the group issued five studio albums, shifting from their gothic-tinged debut toward intricate, orchestral works before disbanding in 2009. Co‑founder Mark Jansen departed in 2002 to form Epica.

Formed in the Netherlands in 1995 (initially as Apocalypse). Key members included Floor Jansen and Sander Gommans; Mark Jansen left in 2002 and founded Epica. Studio albums: Prison of Desire (2000), Decipher (2001), Invisible Circles (2004), Remagine (2005), After Forever (2007, on Nuclear Blast). The 2007 album features Prague orchestra arrangements; notable guests include Doro Pesch (“Who I Am”) and Jeff Waters (“De‑Energized”).

Reviews trace After Forever’s arc from a gothic-tinged debut to a symphonic/progressive peak, spotlighting Floor Jansen’s versatility and the band’s orchestral heft. Invisible Circles earns special praise for its concept and emotive weight. Remagine is lauded as modern and heavy, while the self‑titled album is framed as a mature, theatrical high point on Nuclear Blast. Guests like Doro Pesch and Jeff Waters and Prague‑backed orchestrations are noted.