Top 10 Apocalyptica Songs

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Our top 10 Apocalyptica songs showcase a band renowned for its unique neoclassical metal style. Formed in 1993 by a quartet of cellists from Finland’s prestigious Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, Apocalyptica has emerged as a significant force in the realms of heavy metal, neoclassical metal, and symphonic metal. The group’s debut album, Plays Metallica by Four Cellos, released in 1996, featured eight Metallica covers and captivated metal enthusiasts and fellow musicians alike, thanks to its fervent metal sound. In 1997, their collaboration on Waltari’s album Space Avenue further solidified their roots in the heavy metal genre.

Originally a classical-style Metallica tribute band, Apocalyptica has since evolved into a pioneering neoclassical metal band, distinctively eschewing traditional bass and guitar in their lineup. With each album release, the band has not only expanded its fame beyond Finnish borders but has also become a more prominent name globally. By 2008, Apocalyptica had performed hundreds of shows across Europe and the United States, selling over four million albums. To date, the band has released nine studio albums, with Cell-0 being their latest in 2020. Here are the top 10 Apocalyptica songs that affirm their status as icons in neoclassical metal.

# 10 – I’m Not Jesus

Leading our list of the top 10 Apocalyptica songs is “I’m Not Jesus,” from the album Worlds Collide. This track features a collaboration with Corey Taylor, the renowned vocalist from Slipknot and Stone Sour, resulting in a compelling symphonic metal ballad. The song’s lyrics were co-written by former Filter guitarist Geno Lenardo and vocalist Johnny Andrews. The powerful words address the disturbing subject of child abuse by clerics, a sinister reality often hidden from public view. Corey Taylor delivers a poignant performance, singing from the perspective of someone who was sexually abused by a clergyman in his youth. “I’m Not Jesus” achieved significant chart success in Finland and Germany, reaching number fifteen and twenty-five, respectively, on the national singles charts of these countries.

# 9 – Seemann

“Seemann” is a German word meaning sailor or seaman. Apocalyptica covered the ballad “Seemann” for their album Reflections. Originally, the song was released by the German band Rammstein on their album Herzeleid. In 2003, Apocalyptica reinterpreted this heavy metal ballad, maintaining Rammstein’s original lyrics and featuring the iconic German singer Nina Hagen. Understanding the lyrics of “Seemann” might require some knowledge of German or the aid of translations, as the song is performed in German.

Read More: Top 10 Nina Hagen Songs

# 8 – Path Vol. 2

“Path Vol. 2” stands out as one of the finest Apocalyptica songs, featuring vocals by Sandra Nasić from Guano Apes. The band initially released an instrumental version of this song on their 2000 album Cult. Unlike “Path Vol. 2,” the original version showcases the band’s mastery over their cellos without any vocal accompaniment. “Path Vol. 2” includes lyrics penned by Sandra Nasić and Apocalyptica’s own Eicca Toppinen. This track exemplifies Apocalyptica’s skill with a ferocious yet sublime metal ballad. Sandra Nasić’s compelling performance in “Path Vol. 2” helps cement Apocalyptica’s reputation in the neoclassical metal genre.

# 7 – The Unforgiven

It comes as no surprise that one of Apocalyptica’s standout songs is a cover from the iconic metal band Metallica. Critics have lauded Apocalyptica’s version, some even wishing for a collaboration where Metallica would perform alongside them. Originally composed by Kirk Hammett, James Hetfield, and Lars Ulrich, the song appeared on Metallica’s fifth eponymous album. The lyrics reflect the inner turmoil of an individual battling against those who seek to oppress him. Apocalyptica included this powerful cover in their debut album, Plays Metallica by Four Cellos.

# 6 – Farewell

“Farewell” stands as a testament to Apocalyptica’s ingenuity, showcased brilliantly on their eponymous album. This instrumental piece, devoid of lyrics, captures a deeply somber tone that resonates profoundly with listeners. The haunting melodies of “Farewell” convey a sense of melancholy and reluctant farewell, eliciting an emotional depth and intensity that rivals, and often surpasses, many vocal tracks.

# 5 – Broken Pieces

Number five on our top 10 Apocalyptica songs list is the track “Broken Pieces” from the album 7th Symphony. This original composition by Eicca Toppinen, Fiora Cutler, and Guy Sigsworth was inspired during Apocalyptica’s collaboration with Howard Benson, a producer well-known for his work with the band Flyleaf. Benson facilitated the partnership between Apocalyptica and former Flyleaf lead vocalist Lacey Sturm. Lacey Sturm’s vocals are ethereal, blending seamlessly with Apocalyptica’s cello accompaniment to make “Broken Pieces” a nearly perfect metal song.

#4- I Don’t Care

Released on their sixth album Worlds Collide, “I Don’t Care” is an exceptional song with lyrics crafted through the collaboration of Eicca Toppinen, Max Martin, and Adam Gontier. After receiving several proposals from their label, Apocalyptica was particularly impressed by Adam Gontier, the lead vocalist of Three Days Grace, leading to their partnership on this track. The lyrics of “I Don’t Care” delve into themes of fantasy, infusing the song with an energetic spirit. The track was so successful that it dethroned “Rock ‘N Roll Train” by AC/DC from the top spot on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart and also reached a peak position of number seventy-eight on the Billboard Hot 100.

Read More: Top 10 Three Days Grace Songs

# 3 – Nothing Else Matters

You might never have imagined yourself headbanging to a cello until you encounter “Nothing Else Matters.” This track was released in 1996 on the album Plays Metallica by Four Cellos. Originally a Metallica song with lyrics penned by Lars Ulrich and James Hetfield, Apocalyptica’s cover transforms the classic metal ballad into a deeply evocative cello masterpiece. The rendition invites you to explore the extremes of your emotions, showcasing the band’s flawless execution and passionate cello performance.

# 2 – Bittersweet

Apocalyptica’s collaboration with Lauri Ylönen of The Rasmus and Ville Valo of HIM resulted in the awe-inspiring song “Bittersweet.” Ville Valo penned the lyrics and joined Lauri Ylönen to provide the vocals, creating a captivating musical synergy. The lyrics of “Bittersweet” delve into the complexities of a love triangle, where each party is entangled in unrequited love, loving those who do not love them back and dismissing the affection they receive from others. This poignant single resonated so strongly that it ascended to number one on the Finnish Singles Chart.

# 1 – Not Strong Enough

from the album 7th Symphony. This track features the commanding vocals of Shinedown’s Brent Smith. Written by Diane Warren, the song channels true metal vibes that underscore Apocalyptica’s mastery of the cello. Mikko Sirén’s exceptional drumming further elevates the track, making it a standout metal track. Although another version of the song was recorded with Hoobastank’s Doug Robb for the U.S. release, it is the original version with Brent Smith’s intense vocals that cements “Not Strong Enough” as Apocalyptica’s most iconic release.