Apocalyptica
"Cult"
(Spitfire Records)

To many, myself included, the name Apocalyptica might've only represented a one off gimmick made up of classical musicians who sought to redesign Metallica songs. and true enough, they did so in impressive fashion, effectively transferring might Metal riffs to streamlined and delicate visions that at once enlightened and bewildered listeners. Far from a gimmick however, and further removed from producing mainly covers of Heavy Metal originals, Apocalyptica steps further out into a spotlight they've unwittingly helped create, here on their third full length, "Cult," extending further past the once unbreakable boundaries and with a fortitude that displays their talent for original work, save for only a handful of additional cover tracks for old time's sake. The thought of blending the fine art of Classical music with Heavy Metal was at once unthinkable and only recently has the addition of full-fledged orchestras to enhance the core of the music become in fashion. Apocalyptica do an astounding feat and yet if you were to go back and listen to some of those wondrous compositions by the likes of a Mozart, Chopin, Wagner, you realize the similarities present in the all out aggressiveness that each style of music employs. So here we've got four Finnish Cellists, visionaries by nature, and single-handedly brandish this Heavy Metal firepower solely within the previously perceived delicacy of their instruments to emit forth a sound of pure rage and fury that none could've expected or prepared for. I'm still in awe of the fact that halfway through this I'm still only listening to classical instrumentation, yet nothing associative with modernity. The amplification is a key element in the richness of sound produced and what they've done, if we point early on to such original works as "Struggle," or "Romance," and "In Memoriam," another standout, is add enough orchestration to supply the subtle shades of grace to surround the otherwise volatile core of their magnified bow strikes giving a true indication of the flexibility of this classical art. With the exception of a guest appearance by Guano Apes' Sandra Nasic on the opening "Path Vol. 2," a clever song that quickly moves past you without full attention-which is to say don't drown yourself in the contents while it's playing-all songs are instrumental, most surprisingly quick yet lofty in nature. Toward the end is where the band nods briefly back to their past influences for three daunting covers, first of the Edward Grieg classic "Hall Of The Mountain King," a dark and sinister sounding version with added intensity, before bowing out to two more covers of their favorite Metal band Metallica and "Until It Sleeps," and "Fight Fire With Fire." and for anyone who might've missed their original Metallica covers album, question not whether they can pull off the same aggressive effects necessary to complete this one, question rather your ability to believe your own ears! Apocalyptica is remarkable in their ability and "Cult" furthers an already innovative expression of unique talent that should continue to strengthen itself in time.

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