What started out as a group of Finnish cellists playing Metallica covers eventually turned into a full-fledged band creating wonderfully metallic, mostly instrumental songs, still on their beloved cellos, for Apocalyptica, and here they are, back with their ninth studio album, Cell-O. Not the most original name for an album, but hey, it is all about the 'cello' with this band, so I'll give them that. Cell-O contains nine new compositions, and features the line-up of cellists Eicca Toppinen, Perttu Kivilaakso,Paavo Lötjönen, and drummer Mikko Sirén.
Adventurous and firmly 'heavy metal', Cell-O kicks off with the bombastic "Ashes Of the Modern World", which stomps right into the raging title track, which is kind of like 'Metallica-meets-ELO-meets-The Mahavishnu Orchestra', complete with sophisticated, heavy riffs and pounding drums. Even the solos are completely captivating. "Rise" is for all the classical & World Music lovers out there, containing some great melodies, and "En Route To Mayhem" is a slow builder with a snaking, mysterious lead cello line that is supported by intricate drums and beefy riffs, eventually the song morphing into a furious 'cello-thrash' complete with double bass drumming and frantic cello solos. Other highlights include the majestic power of "Fire & Ice", the soaring "Scream For the Silent", and the near progressive metal closer "Beyond the Stars".
Still one of the more unique bands on the scene, Apocalyptica once again have put together an enjoyable collection of classy yet heavy sounds here on Cell-O, helping 2020 get off on a healthy start.
Track Listing
- Ashes Of The Modern World 6:30
- Cell-0 9:57
- Rise 5:22
- En Route To Mayhem 5:28
- Call My Name 3:56
- Fire & Ice 5:21
- Scream For The Silent 5:13
- Catharsis 4:59
- Beyond The Stars 6:54
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