Metallica – US Bank Stadium – Minneapolis MN August 20, 2016

Metallica Leave Their Mark on US Bank Stadium

It moved very quickly from buzz, to announcement, to who ended up being the lucky ones to score tickets? The fact that this would be Metallica’s only summer performance in 2016 drew a lot of attention.   Metallica at US Bank Stadium was going to be huge.

There was plenty of excitement amidst the pre-show activities being held outside the stadium.  50,000 black concert t-shirt wearing head-bangers of all ages converged on downtown Minneapolis.  The massive stadium felt a little light on attendance during Volbeat’s set.  However, it was a solid effort.

There were noticeably more bodies in the seats for Avenged Sevenfold. Many of their exclusive fans in the building were specifically for their set.  They were also excited for the main event. The real fanatics were likely enjoying their second AX7 performance. Days prior, they had played at First Avenue.  The band seemed very much back at home Saturday night on the big stage.

Metallica came out guns blazing, full of energy and attitude. Singer James Hetfield displayed a unique combination of angst and joy and seemed to be really enjoying himself. Although the long locks of guitarist extraordinaire Kirk Hammett are showing a little grey (not in a bad way), his shredability has not declined in the least and he did not disappoint. Bassist, Robert Trujillo was just fun to watch as usual considering he plays his part in the band so well. Never one to be overshadowed, Lars Ulrich played with great enthusiasm as expected and is still one of the best behind the kit at firing up a crowd.

No doubt this was one of the biggest shows the Twin Cities had to offer this year and I believe it lived up to the hype and paved the way for what I’m sure will be many more big time events at this spectacular new venue. Patrick Dunn review and photos!!!!!