Metallica Draws A Massive Crowd At Gillette Stadium

Metallica Thrills a Sold-Out Crowd at Gillette Stadium: A Night of Heavy Metal Brilliance

Metallica, the iconic heavy metal band, kicked off their two-night stand at Gillette Stadium with an electrifying performance that left fans craving more. The first night of the M72 World Tour, billed as a no-repeat weekend, featured a dynamic 15-song set that showcased both classic hits and new material, highlighting the band’s enduring appeal.

A Night to Remember at Gillette Stadium

On Friday night, Metallica frontman James Hetfield captivated the audience at Gillette Stadium, famously known as the house that Tom Brady built. With the stadium’s six Super Bowl championship banners on display, Hetfield couldn’t resist making a playful jab. “For those who have come to Metallica shows in the past, you probably remember seeing balloons, but we’re going to deflate them a little this time,” Hetfield joked, adding, “This coming from a Raiders fan, of course.” The Boston crowd responded with good-natured cheers, ready for the heavy metal marathon ahead.

A Powerful Performance

The night began with a thunderous rendition of “Creeping Death,” as drummer Lars Ulrich set the pace with his iconic beats. Lead guitarist Kirk Hammett delivered the riff that has inspired countless garage bands, while Hetfield’s vocals on “Harvester of Sorrow” echoed through the stadium. The band continued to deliver with “Leper Messiah” and “King Nothing,” showcasing their versatility and raw energy.

Metallica set included three tracks from their latest album, “72 Seasons.” The title track and songs like “If Darkness Had a Son” demonstrated the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. Playing in the round, Metallica made full use of the stadium, with Ulrich switching between three drum kits and Hetfield navigating multiple microphone stands. High-tech staging with eight large screen pillars ensured every fan had a great view.

Highlight Moments

The expanded setlist allowed Metallica to delve into deeper cuts like the instrumental “Orion” from “Master of Puppets.” Hetfield’s performance on the ballad “Nothing Else Matters,” backed by Hammett’s soaring solo, provided a poignant contrast to heavier tracks like “Sad But True.” The show’s finale was a powerful one-two punch of “Fuel,” “Seek and Destroy,” and “Master of Puppets,” leaving the audience in awe.

Anticipation for Night Two

While signature songs like “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” “One,” and “Enter Sandman” were absent, fans are eagerly anticipating their inclusion in Sunday night’s setlist. The promise of more hits ensures that the second night will be a grand finale that headbangers won’t want to miss.

Opening Acts Set the Stage

Opening acts Mammoth WVH and a newly reconfigured Pantera set the stage for Metallica’s epic performance. Wolfgang Van Halen’s band delivered a high-energy six-song set, closing with “Don’t Back Down.” Pantera, featuring singer Phil Anselmo and bassist Rex Brown, along with guitarist Zakk Wylde and drummer Charlie Benante, honored the legacy of the late Abbott brothers with powerful renditions of “Broken,” “Walk,” and “Cowboys from Hell.”

Metallica Setlist for Gillette Stadium, Aug. 2:

1. Creeping Death
2. Harvester of Sorrow
3. Leper Messiah
4. King Nothing
5. 72 Seasons
6. If Darkness Had a Son
7. Foxboro on the Run (Kirk and Rob doodle)
8. The Day That Never Comes
9. Shadows Follow
10. Orion
11. Nothing Else Matters
12. Sad But True
13. Hardwired
14. Fuel
15. Seek & Destroy
16. Master of Puppets

Metallica first night at Gillette Stadium was a testament to their legendary status and their ability to deliver a performance that resonates with fans old and new. As the crowd eagerly awaits the second night, the M72 World Tour continues to solidify Metallica’s place in heavy metal history.