Apocalyptica Plays Metallica Vol.2 in Seattle
What started with playing a couple of songs together showing their love for Metallica has turned into a successful career over the last three decades for Apocalyptica. The metal band which started in Helsinki in 1993 now consisting of classically trained cellists Eicca Toppinen, Paavo Lötjönen, and Perttu Kivilaaksohas has played thousands of gigs around the world.
The Finnish symphonic band were back in Seattle supporting the release of their 10th record, Plays Metallica Vol.2. There is nothing I love more than hearing metal music arranged with strings. There is something magical about the clashing of hard and soft together breathing new life into the sound. This is what you feel when you listen to the three cellos play together. Pathos and calmness all at once.
The night started off with famous guitarist Nita Strauss, who is most known for her work with Alice Cooper, playing songs from her most recent album, The Call of the Void. This was such a perfect addition to the show as her energy was a great match. Kasey Karlsen, her touring vocalist, did an exceptional job leading the show and adding her own style. It was intense and people were into the songs and charisma Strauss and her band brought.
When it was time for Apocalyptica to take the floor fans cheered on and stood up from their seats. Last time we saw them play it was solely four cellos as this time the band was a three-piece accompanied by a drummer. This changed the sound and emotion of the show a lot and it was completely fitting with the intensity of the tunes. The band wasted no time making the show an incredible sing-along with “Enter Sandman,” as everyone became the vocalists to their instruments. When it was time for our part the whole room filled with the echo of the words, “We’re off to never-never land!”
Song after song one thing was going through my mind, how amazing they are in their craft and how beautifully they can replicate the original emotion of the vocals with just their strings. Even though you can’t hear James Hetfield’s voice, it’s like you are and that’s the power of Apocalyptica. The trio is passionately playing the cellos, and you can see them sing the lyrics guiding their bows.
Their set ended with a magical “Nothing Else Matters,” which I believe my heart exploded in a thousand pieces with the solo. What a beautiful song to breathe new life into and undeniable pathos. This was another time the fans filled the Moore Theater with their loud voices echoing in the historic theater. After band intros and a few jokes, they finished with a powerful “Seek & Destroy.” Kivilaaksohas showed off his talent a little more by playing the heavy cello behind his head. What a night, what an amazing band to witness live. Apocalyptica is something you must experience live, especially if you’re a Metallica fan.
