Perttu Kivilaakso, lead cellist of APOCALYPTICA, recently discussed the band’s tribute to METALLICA’s “The Call Of Ktulu” during an interview with Australia’s Metal-Roos. This rendition includes the iconic bassline originally performed by the late Cliff Burton, who tragically passed away in a tour bus accident in 1986. Kivilaakso revealed, “Yes, that’s the original recording. Eicca [Toppinen] had this brilliant idea to create an arrangement around Cliff’s playing. We reached out to the Burton family for their blessing, and they were incredibly supportive. The entire METALLICA team, including Lars [Ulrich], expressed their appreciation, saying it was beautiful.”
He shared the emotional impact of the project, stating, “It’s a profound honor for us. Our goal was to pay tribute to Cliff Burton, a true innovator in metal bass. Isolating his track and hearing his use of whammy effects and intricate techniques was spiritual. Many times in the studio, I found myself in tears, overwhelmed by the experience of creating music alongside Burton’s legacy. I tried to channel his style in my solos because he approached the bass as if he were a soloist, constantly exploring melodies rather than sticking to traditional low notes. Capturing that essence in the studio was extraordinary. We also received permission to feature his recording in our live shows, which means we can bring him to the stage with us. We even created a tribute video to honor him. It’s a powerful moment for all of us who admire his legacy, and I hope listeners feel that same connection to the music.”
APOCALYPTICA’s version of “The Call Of Ktulu” appears on their album “Apocalyptica Plays Metallica, Vol. 2,” a follow-up to their celebrated debut. This new interpretation isn’t just a reworking of a classic track from METALLICA’s 1984 album Ride The Lightning; it signifies a heartfelt endorsement from both METALLICA and the Burton family, who fully embraced the project. It stands as a poignant tribute to a bassist whose monumental impact continues to resonate.
When the cover was released in June, Toppinen reflected, “I’ve learned that when you have bold ideas, it’s worth reaching out. So, I called Lars, and he loved the concept! James [Hetfield] was on board too, and I met with one of Cliff’s relatives who shared the same enthusiasm. It was a deeply spiritual experience for us, and we aimed to honor Cliff with the utmost respect. Hearing from those close to him that he would have loved this made it even more magical.”
Released in June through Throwdown Entertainment, “Apocalyptica Plays Metallica Vol. 2” continues the artistic journey that began in 1996 when cellists from Helsinki’s prestigious Sibelius Academy first paid homage to METALLICA, one of the titans of heavy metal.
