Apocalyptica

It doesn’t get much more theatrical than a Finnish metal band with three cello players—except for when that same group of cellists play shirtless while headbanging and with a fog machine blasting in the background. Taking a classical approach to heavy metal, Apocalyptica employs tight arrangements over a more contemporary rock influence. The results are mixed: While the new 7th Symphony is beautifully assembled in parts, in others it’s just far too ostentatious to take seriously.

Updated 08/25/2010