The Metallica tribute band will make its highly anticipated debut on 13 September at The Agenda.
Once upon a time, Apocalyptica found fame as a classical Metallica tribute act, with time, evolving into a metal band that uses electric cellos as instruments and writes its own songs. But in a full circle moment, the Dubai-bound band has joined forces with none other than James Hetfield. Entertainment company All Things Live has revealed that the Finnish band’s latest single, “One”, features the Metallica frontman.
Incidentally “One” is the third single to be taken from Apocalyptica Plays Metallica, Vol. 2, the highly anticipated sequel to Apocalyptica’s legendary debut record, following the release of tracks “The Four Horsemen” and “The Unforgiven II”. Having originally featured on And Justice for All, Metallica’s landmark 1988 album, “One” is a breathtaking reinterpretation of the universally beloved metal song about a WWI soldier. In a stunning development, the single sees Hetfield joining proceedings for a soul-stirring, spoken-word rendition of those inimitable, now immortal lyrics. More than a unique collaboration, this is history in the making.
“I think it’s incredible that James wanted to do it,” says Eicca Toppinen, who formed Apocalyptica in 1993. “We were always thinking, ‘It’d be great to someday do something with Metallica!’ I think the excitement for him came from the different approach we were taking — sometimes the craziest ideas are what excites people and that was our challenge.”
“We used everything at our disposal to make it as bombastic as possible. It had to be epic! The result was truly cinematic, with James narrating the story with those poetic lyrics. It was powerful and touching,” adds Perttu Kivilaakso. “As a fan I have to say it was unbelievable to finally hear it. I was in my home crying. My hands were shaking. It was an incredible journey.”
In case you missed it, Toppinen and Kivilaakso will be joined by fellow band member Paavo Lötjönen on stage here in Dubai. The Finnish cello rockers will make their debut in Dubai at The Agenda in Dubai Media City on 13 September, performing carefully crafted interpretations of Metallica’s biggest hits. The concert forms part of Apocalyptica’s European Tour, which begins in Helsinki on 8 June and draws to a close in Belgrade on 30 November.
Starting from AED 299, tickets are now available via Platinumlist.
DSCVR: Apocalyptica. The Agenda, Abdullah Omran Taryam Street, Dubai Media City, Dubai. @agendadubai
