Article written by Roger Casadejús Pérez
The Venue and Atmosphere
The venue, a cozy and historic club in the heart of New York, was abuzz with anticipation. With a capacity far smaller than the stadiums and arenas Metallica usually fills, the setting provided an exclusive feel. The walls reverberated with the energy of excited fans, creating a vibrant atmosphere even before the first note was played. The intimate setting allowed for a connection between the band and the audience that is often lost in larger venues.
The Setlist
Metallica curated a setlist that spanned their extensive and illustrious career, delivering a mix of their biggest hits alongside some deeper cuts for the hardcore fans. Below is the complete setlist from the evening:
- 1. Enter Sandman
- 2. Master of Puppets
- 3. The Unforgiven
- 4. Battery
- 5. For Whom the Bell Tolls
- 6. Sad But True
- 7. Fade to Black
- 8. Seek & Destroy
- 9. Nothing Else Matters
- 10. One
- 11. Creeping Death
- 12. Blackened
- 13. Whiskey in the Jar (Encore)
- 14. The Four Horsemen (Encore)
Performance Highlights
From the moment the band hit the stage, the energy was palpable. Opening with “Enter Sandman,” the crowd erupted into a frenzy, singing along to every word. James Hetfield’s vocals were as powerful as ever, and the band’s chemistry was on full display. “Master of Puppets” delivered a thunderous performance that left the audience in awe. Kirk Hammett’s guitar solos were executed flawlessly, and Lars Ulrich’s drumming provided a relentless backbone to each song.
Celebrity Sightings
The intimate nature of the show drew not only fans but also a number of celebrities, adding an additional layer of excitement to the night. Below are some of the notable celebrities spotted at the event:
- 1. Robert Downey Jr.
- 2. Lady Gaga
- 3. Dave Grohl
- 4. Chris Rock
- 5. Kristen Stewart
- 6. Bradley Cooper
Video Highlights
Several fan-recorded videos have surfaced, capturing the electric atmosphere and unforgettable performances. Here is a selection of some of the most memorable moments from the evening:
Fan Reactions
Fans left the venue buzzing with excitement, many expressing that it was the best Metallica performance they had ever seen. Social media was flooded with praise for the band, with attendees sharing their favorite moments and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to see Metallica in such a unique setting. The hashtag #MetallicaNYC trended on Twitter, with fans posting photos and videos from the event.
Conclusion
Metallica’s small show in New York City was a testament to their enduring appeal and ability to captivate audiences. The combination of an intimate venue, a killer setlist, and an enthusiastic crowd made for a night that will be remembered by those lucky enough to attend. As Metallica continues to evolve and surprise their fans, this performance stands out as a highlight in their storied career.