Cello-playing Finnish quartet
Apocalyptica's sequel to their well-received first album departs from the safe haven of
Metallica covers (only four tracks) and introduces material by other heavy metal bands, and even a few originals. Of the latter, "Harmageddon" is probably the standout track, and while most Metalli-fans will be eager to hear the group's rendition of the smash hit "One," the song takes a backseat to inspired renditions of earlier classics such as "For Whom the Bell Tolls" and "Fade to Black." As for the other bands covered, the arrangements of
Pantera's "Domination" and
Sepultura's "Refuse/Resist" are rather dull, but
Faith No More's "From Out of Nowhere" works surprisingly well, and the group's performance of the album's incredibly complex title track (another
Sepultura original) is simply stunning. ~ Eduardo Rivadavia