Article written by Roger Casadejús Pérez
2. “Battery” by Immortal
Immortal, a fundamental band in the black metal scene, took on Metallica’s “Battery,” infusing it with their raw energy and frostbitten sound. Known for their blistering speed and icy riffs, Immortal’s cover retains the intensity of the original while adding a distinctly cold atmosphere.
The band’s approach to “Battery” is marked by relentless blast beats and Abbath’s rasping vocals, which add a layer of ferocity and darkness. This cover showcases Immortal’s ability to maintain the song’s thrash roots while enveloping it in the quintessential black metal aura.
3. “The Unforgiven” by Emperor
Emperor’s interpretation of “The Unforgiven” is a prime example of transforming a classic Metallica ballad into a complex and layered black metal composition. Known for their sophisticated musicianship and symphonic elements, Emperor’s cover features intricate guitar work and Ihsahn’s versatile vocal delivery.
By incorporating atmospheric keyboards and dynamic tempo changes, Emperor adds a sense of grandeur and melancholy to the track. Their rendition preserves the emotional depth of the original while enhancing it with a darker, more epic soundscape, characteristic of their signature style.
4. “Master of Puppets” by Mayhem
Mayhem, pioneers of the Norwegian black metal scene, took on the iconic “Master of Puppets,” transforming it with their chaotic and intense approach. Known for their harrowing sound and controversial history, Mayhem’s cover is a brutal reimagining that amplifies the song’s themes of control and manipulation.
The band infuses the track with raw aggression, featuring Attila Csihar’s haunting vocals and Hellhammer’s relentless drumming. Mayhem’s rendition offers a visceral experience, capturing the essence of the original while thrusting it into the depths of black metal’s chaotic realm.
5. “Nothing Else Matters” by Darkthrone
Darkthrone, a band synonymous with the evolution of black metal, delivered a stripped-down yet powerful cover of “Nothing Else Matters.” Known for their lo-fi aesthetic and uncompromising sound, Darkthrone’s version is raw and emotive, highlighting the song’s introspective lyrics.
By focusing on minimalist arrangements and Fenriz’s somber vocal delivery, Darkthrone’s rendition brings a stark and poignant interpretation to the Metallica classic. This cover exemplifies the band’s ability to convey deep emotion through simplicity, staying true to their black metal roots while honoring the original’s sentiment.
Conclusion
These black metal covers of Metallica songs showcase the genre’s ability to reinterpret and transform classic metal tracks. Each cover brings a unique perspective, blending the raw and atmospheric elements of black metal with the foundational riffs and melodies of Metallica’s originals. Whether through symphonic embellishments, raw aggression, or minimalist interpretation, these artists have paid tribute to Metallica’s enduring influence while crafting something distinctly their own. For fans of both genres, these covers offer an exciting exploration of musical fusion and innovation.