While poking around in the iTunes store for early Apocalyptica tracks, I came upon a reference to Vitamin String Quartet.

Unlike Apocalyptica, who went from a first album full of string arrangements of Metallica songs to several subsequent albums with increasing quantities of original content, this string quartet’s bag seems to be discs full of covers based on theme, artist, or even album. For example, you can get all of Radiohead’s OK Computer done as strings. While orchestral renditions of Radiohead’s work is not unique, I have to say the Vitamin String Quartet’s work is the best I’ve heard of that type.

Since this is a blog about gaming, I’ll hit the point now. One of their releases, dated about a month ago, is a tribute album to some of the great songs in Guitar Hero games. The first track is Through the Fire and Flames, and it sounds unbelievable. It’s followed abruptly by my personal nemesis, Knights of Cydonia.

Right now the official website is offering all CDs at $9.99, and if you pick up three or more, shipping is free. This beats iTunes, as not all of their stuff is in iTunes Plus, so if you get it there you’ll be dealing with lower fidelity than you may like… as well as DRM… for the same price. There’s also a buy two, get one free deal that requires you to sign up on the site. Not sure if you can combine that with the free shipping, but it looks like the way to stock up. Maybe I’ll wait for the AC/DC album to come out next month, then pick up that one with Coldplay and this Guitar Hero disc.

Source: Vitamin String Quartet