Apocalyptica is thrilled to announce the release of “The Call of Ktulu,” the fourth and final single from their highly-anticipated album Apocalyptica Plays Metallica, Vol. 2. This new track coincides with the album’s release and follows the rapturous response to their previous singles: stunning reinterpretations of “The Four Horsemen,” “The Unforgiven II,” and “One.”
A Tribute to Metallica and Cliff Burton
“The Call of Ktulu” stands out as a remarkable tribute, featuring the original bassline laid down by legendary Metallica bassist Cliff Burton, who tragically passed away in 1986. This track not only reimagines a defining moment from Metallica’s second album, Ride The Lightning, but also represents a resounding seal of approval from Metallica and the family of Cliff Burton.
“I’ve learned in life that if you have crazy ideas it’s always worth asking, so I called Lars!” says Apocalyptica founder Eicca Toppinen. “He was like, ‘I love that you guys always think outside of the box!’ James (Hetfield) loved the idea, and I met one of Cliff’s close relatives and she did, too. It was a spiritual experience working on this. We wanted to treat this with honor and maximum respect, and it was magical to have people so close to Cliff say that he would have loved it.”
About the Album
Apocalyptica Plays Metallica Vol. 2 continues the journey that began in 1996 when cellists from Helsinki’s Sibelius Academy paid symphonic tribute to Metallica. This ninth record by the classically-minded group brings their legendary story full circle with a host of surprises, including appearances by Metallica’s James Hetfield and Rob Trujillo.
Produced by longtime collaborator Joe Barresi (Queens of the Stone Age, Soundgarden, Nine Inch Nails, Tool), the album will be released via Throwdown Entertainment on June 7th.
Track listing:
- Ride the Lightning
- St. Anger
- The Unforgiven II
- Blackened
- The Call of Ktulu (in memory of Cliff Burton)
- The Four Horsemen (ft. Rob Trujillo)
- Holier Than Thou
- To Live Is To Die
- One (ft. James Hetfield)
- One (Instrumental)
Apocalyptica:
- Eicca Toppinen
- Perttu Kivilaakso
- Paavo Lötjönen
Don’t miss out on this groundbreaking release that honors the legacy of Metallica and the unforgettable Cliff Burton. Apocalyptica Plays Metallica, Vol. 2 is available on June 7th.
