Metallica unleashed a sonic storm at London Stadium on Friday, July 3, delivering a career-spanning set that left fans breathless. The four-decade veterans kicked off the highly anticipated 'no repeats' shows in style, treating the sold-out crowd to an explosive 16-song extravaganza that defied expectations and delivered pure adrenaline. It was a performance that showcased the band's remarkable versatility, blending classic hits with newer material and cementing their reputation as one of heavy music's most enduring and influential acts.
The evening commenced with a blistering rendition of 'Creeping Death', which got the crowd moving in no time. James Hetfield, ever the consummate frontman, engaged with the audience, his banter infectious and enthusiastic. "London, you better look out because Metallica is in a good mood tonight... and it's all your fault!" he declared, setting the tone for an unforgettable night of music.
As the setlist unfolded, fans were treated to a masterclass in musical variety, with tracks like 'Lux Æterna' and 'If Darkness Had a Son' from their latest album, '72 Seasons', rubbing shoulders with iconic hits like 'Holier Than Thou' and 'Of Wolf and Man'. The band's unique 'doodle' segment was also on show, with bassist Rob Trujillo and guitarist Kirk Hammett delivering a medley of Ian Dury's 'Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll' and The Clash's 'Guns of Brixton', a heartwarming nod to the capital's rich musical heritage.
The evening reached its crescendo as Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich returned to the stage, leading the band through fan favourites like 'Fade To Black', 'Cyanide', 'Orion', and 'Nothing Else Matters'. The energy was electric, with even the usually stoic Kirk Hammett cracking a smile or two. And then, there were the guitar heroes – Trujillo's virtuosic solo in 'Sad But True' and the thunderous chords of 'Master Of Puppets' left the crowd gasping for air.
As the night drew to a close, Hetfield took centre stage once more, his voice hoarse but his spirit unbroken. "I have the best job in the whole world," he declared, beaming with pride. And it's hard to argue with him – after 45 years of making music that matters, Metallica remain one of the most beloved and respected acts on the planet.