JuicyBands.com: Apocalyptica

April 16, 2008

Apocalyptica, Utterly original in every aspect!

There aren't many rock bands on this planet that wouldn't like to be regarded as unique. Of course, in these times of nostalgia and endlessly recycled ideas, very few actually deserve that description. Finland's Apocalyptica deserve it more than most. Apocalyptica chose an entirely individual path from day one playing heavy metal songs by artists like Matalica on four chellos. Utterly original in every aspect, these guys kicked ass from day one, putting out a shattering metal classical sound quite unlike anything or anyone else in musical history.
Apocalyptica was formed in 1993 when four cellists, Eicca Toppinen, Paavo Lötjönen, Max Lilja, and Antero Manninen gathered to play Metallica covers at the Teatro Heavy Metal Club. Among the audience was Kari Hynninen who worked for the independent label, Zen Garden Records. After listening to Apocalyptica's set, Kari Hynninen was impressed and signed them to Zen Garden Records on the spot.
Apocalyptica was an overnight success in their native land, embraced by a surprisingly large audience that contained both die-hard metal fans and chin-stroking classical aficionados. It might seem a peculiar combination, but for the band the two genres have a logical and natural relationship.
The band released their debut studio album, Plays Metallica by Four Cellos, which consisted solely of Metallica covers played on cellos in 1996. In 1998, Apocalyptica released their second studio album, Inquisition Symphony, which was produced by Hiili Hiilesma. Inquisition Symphony once again contained covers of Metallica, but also contained covers of Faith No More, Sepultura, and Pantera. For this album the band also decided to include three original songs written by Eicca Toppinen.
As 2003 rolled around, Apocalyptica released their fourth studio album, Reflections, which consisted for the first time of all 100% completely original songs. . Reflections featured a more experimental sound, instead of the previous acoustic style arrangements found on Inquisition Symphony and Cult. Dave Lombardo from Slayer thought the band was amazing and played drums on five songs from Reflections. As he was unable to join the band on stage on the following tour, the band hired Mikko Sirén, who would stay with the band for future tours as well as the recording of the next album.
Apocalyptica released their fifth studio album, Apocalyptica in 2005. This album featured a number of guest musicians including Ville Valo of HIM, Lauri Ylönen, and rock legend, Dave Lombardo. They also recorded the Intro for Bullet For My Valentine's album The Poison. In December 2005, Mikko Siren was announced as an official band member after kicking ass at around 200 shows with the band.
Apocalyptica later took centre stage as special guest in the Eurovision Song Contest in Helsinki. Millions of music lovers around the world were blown away by the sight and sound of a band that create an ear-boggling spectacle wherever they go and who wear their uniqueness as a badge of honor. With the release of 'Worlds Collide', Apocalyptica are poised to conquer hearts and minds all over the globe.
“I’m Not Jesus” took the lead spot and became hugely popular on rock stations around the world. The band announced a large world tour for 2008, so far including concerts in Europe, North America and Mexico. They’ve performed all around the world and have sold out all venues that they played. The band has sold over two million albums to date. They are also scheduled to play KFMA Day in Tucson, AZ with Metallica On May 16, 2008.