Apocalyptica

For all the cool things that can happen when metal either melds with another style of music or is reinterpreted from an unexpected angle, it’s sometimes hard to shake the feeling that we’re being condescended to when classical or jazz or avant-garde musicians give us their take on the form — even when the results are totally fresh (Fantomas, for example) and the artists themselves are completely sincere. Luckily, Finnish cello group Apocalyptica brings not only enthusiasm and respect for metal but also a deft, almost innate touch for capturing its spirit. No novelty act, Apocalyptica delivers on its claim that rock has nothing to do with the instruments you choose. Though its latest album consists of originals, the band’s respectability, strangely enough, lies in its repertoire of (mostly) thrash-metal covers. It’s hard to believe that thrash has surpassed the 20-year mark, but it isn’t a moment too soon that Apocalyptica has come out of the chamber to celebrate the genre’s rhythmic sophistication and finesse.