Apocalyptica
Apocalyptica

THE REVIEW

I don't know what they did before and/or after this (what I consider fantastic) album from 2005. I say this because I've heard people say Apocalyptica "stinks" of commercialism, but since I haven't followed the band's evolution, I don't have a reference point. The Finnish band Apocalyptica are geniuses, and as such, they attempted (and succeeded) in producing a very unique work. Yes, because it's a great idea to combine noble and refined musical instruments like the violins and violas with the ruthless extreme sounds of metal.

Based on the average opinion of people, it seems the album wasn't very well-received, and honestly, I don't understand why. While it is true that metal is a hard, raw genre full of adrenaline-filled energy, and this type of gothic seems more like a soundtrack for a dramatic film, I personally think this is the beauty of it, or rather, its uniqueness. The heavy guitars and typical metal drums are present, but they don't create the usual dark atmospheres or the typical (though fascinating) technical plays; because thanks to the rough and special, yet wonderful, sounds of "high-class" instruments, melodies emerge which, in my opinion, represent the ultimate conception of gothic: love, frustration, depression, etc, etc.

There's not much voice; it's a mostly instrumental band (at least regarding this album). I particularly recommend listening to "Quutamo" (my favorite), a slow, calm, and sad song where, in fact, the devil's instrument (the violin) makes it so valuable. Gothic metal enthusiasts will love them. I've tried the CD in the car, and I must say it truly sets the atmosphere for my thoughts. A must-have.