Review Summary: Apocalyptica starts to develop their own sound with an excellent, well-thought out record.
Apocalyptica made themselves pretty well known with their first 2 records. Making covers of famous artists is something lots of bands do, but using cellos...that´s quite interesting. So, after reproducing the metal sound of Metallica and others with their own touch, it was time for the band to produce THEIR characteristic sound. `Cult´ is the first Apocalyptica record which contains more original songs than covers (only three of these). The result: a beautiful, incredible and unique experience into the both calm and brutal sound s of the cellos. Apocalyptica starts their own history right here.
When the first song `Path´ starts, one could think this is simply a cello delivering a normal sound, until the aggression starts. Fast and pounding riffs are displayed until the calm edge picks up again, and then we have a beautiful section with the classical and catchy riff being played, with the support of the fast paced cello on the background. What a beautiful harmony.
The band makes sure to keep that sound for most of the album, but always keeping structures and harmonies fresh enough to catch the listener´s attention. There´s no point in listing songs where this is more noticeable since the entire record is done this way. Mixing between slow and fast and never overextending one or another, the band makes sure to not tire the listener and keep it entertained.
Even tough the band displays their skills to almost perfection on this record, there are still some factors that might drag the album down. Firstly, the use of drums is inexistent here, resulting in the listen lacking a `punchy element´. Also, even tough I said the musicianship on the album is outstanding, this is obviously not suited for everyone. What we have here are four guys playing cellos with a metal edge, but that´s it, no vocals, no any other instruments. If you´re looking for something more, well, look somewhere else (or their self-titled).
Still, if you´re tired of the typical hard rock/metal stuff or simply want something new, I recommend you to check this out. These guys provide a unique and enjoyable experience. Who would have thought that the sometimes boring classical sound would mix so well with heavy metal. Hear this at least once, you will be surprised.
