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Metallica guitarist promises an enhanced experience for Minneapolis takeover.
Aug
Metallica Aims for Longevity Like the Rolling Stones with Minneapolis Shows
Kirk Hammett, Metallica’s guitarist, reveals that this weekend’s “no repeat” shows at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis reflect the band’s ambition to endure like the Rolling Stones. One reason for taking a night off between their two massive concerts is to give the members, now aged 59 to 61, some time to recover.
“The shows take a physical toll on some of us,” Hammett admitted, acknowledging that age has become a factor.
Although he didn’t specify, it’s likely that frontman James Hetfield’s voice and drummer Lars Ulrich’s stamina are the areas that need extra rest. Despite this, all four members of Metallica are committed to performing together for as long as possible.
This break, along with other elements of the Friday and Sunday concerts at U.S. Bank Stadium, are designed to ensure Metallica’s longevity, much like the Rolling Stones.
“The Stones are setting a precedent by playing into their 80s,” Hammett said. “That’s inspiring for us. That’s our goal.” In a recent phone interview, Hammett expressed enthusiasm for this new touring format.
Each stop on the tour features a Friday/Sunday schedule, creating a weekend “takeover” and “no repeat” experience.
In Minneapolis, fans can enjoy various activities on the Saturday night between concerts, including film screenings, a DJ’d bowling night, a photo exhibit, and a concert featuring bands led by Metallica members’ sons.
“We wanted to turn the weekend into more of an experience, like European festivals,” Hammett explained.
“There are different opening acts for each night,” Hammett added. “We’re also not repeating set lists, making each night unique.”
For the first time in over three decades, iconic songs like “Master of Puppets,” “Creeping Death,” and “Enter Sandman” will only be performed once over the two nights.
“I see it as one long, continuous set list: Part 1 on Friday and Part 2 on Sunday,” Hammett said. “We know what songs our fans expect, and we balance those with newer tracks and deeper cuts.”
The newest songs come from last year’s “72 Seasons,” Metallica’s 11th studio album, described by the band as their most “friction-free” recording process, possibly due to pandemic-related social distancing.
Hammett added, “We were able to record certain parts from home, which made things smoother.” The album’s heavier tracks, like “If Darkness Had a Son” and “Screaming Suicide,” reflect the global anxiety and anger during the pandemic.
Emerging from that dark period inspired the band to make these weekend-long takeovers extra festive for fans.
“There’s this whole camaraderie and togetherness on this tour that’s really been amazing,” Hammett said, which might keep Metallica going long after this tour.
When: 6 p.m. Fri. & Sun.
Where: U.S. Bank Stadium, 401 Chicago Av., Minneapolis.
With: Pantera and Mammoth WVH (Fri.), Five Finger Death Punch and Ice Nine Kills (Sun.).
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