The sight of Lars relentlessly pounding the drums as rain pours down is pure, untamed badassery

Metallica’s performance of Master of Puppets at Manchester’s Etihad Stadium on June 18, 2019, was an electrifying spectacle filled with energy and nostalgia. As torrential rain fell, it only fueled the excitement of the crowd, uniting them as they embraced every riff, beat, and scream. James Hetfield, playing his cherished guitar “Carl” amid the downpour, added a distinct touch to the performance. Crafted from the salvaged wood of the California garage where Metallica created early masterpieces like Ride the Lightning and For Whom the Bell Tolls, Carl is more than just an instrument—it’s a tribute to the band’s legacy, deepening the live experience. This iconic guitar, weathered and timeworn, symbolized the endurance and history of Metallica’s journey.

Each powerful note Hetfield played stirred the crowd into a collective sense of wonder, creating a shared, profound experience. For many, it felt like a return to a time when a band that has defined the metal genre for decades was at their peak. Metallica delivered iconic tracks from multiple albums, including intense songs like Sad But True and One, each one raising the crowd’s energy. The rain only amplified the night’s intensity, highlighting the unbreakable bond between Metallica and their audience.

Hetfield’s voice rang out through the storm, Lars Ulrich’s pounding drums echoed, and the band’s chemistry gave the performance an undeniable aura of strength.

For fans, this concert went beyond a mere live performance; it embodied Metallica’s lasting legacy and their unwavering commitment. The event felt monumental, as everyone shared a rare moment of unity, immersed in the rain-soaked performance. For many, this night would go down as one of the most unforgettable concerts, cementing Master of Puppets as more than just a song, but a transformative experience that captured the raw power and essence of metal music.