Metallica - ‘Lux Æterna’

Writer’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Saying Metallica had a bit of a resurgence this year feels like a disservice to the years of touring and music they've been putting out over the last few years: however the inclusion of 'Master Of Puppets' in Stranger Things introduced a new, younger generation to this legendary rock band.

'Lux Æterna' is their latest single, coming along with an announcement of a new album and tour. It kicks off with a bang, with raw guitars and drums kicking in immediately. It's gritty and fast and reminiscent of the old thrash metal days. James Hetfields vocals sound clean with lyrics that nod to this new generation of fans the band have taken on, "a sea of hearts beat as one - - - all generations".

It's not the most lyrically intense song, but it doesn't have to be, it's just a hard thrash metal tune, the chorus just being "Lux Æterna" belted multiple times. Instead, the track relies on the instruments to pave the way, and as stated before, they're clean and heavy hitting.

Following the second chorus the tune goes into a full on breakdown, with more clean guitars and Lars Ulrich's signature drumming being better than most modern bands could only ever dream of.

The final verse and chorus hit the listener before the song has one more drum breakdown. It's a great return for the band and sets up for the forthcoming album '72 Seasons'

Fans of the band won't have to wait too long either, with the album dropping in April, shortly before their sets at Download's 20th anniversary.