In a recent episode of ‘The Metallica Report,’ Kirk Hammett reflected on his return to touring with the ‘M72’ world tour after a six-month hiatus. When discussing his health and lifestyle, the guitarist emphasized his commitment to staying physically active despite certain limitations:
“Well, I keep up with a pretty physically active lifestyle anyway. When I’m at home, I’m constantly walking or biking, swimming. I can’t really run or do any surfing these days because of a knee issue. But hopefully, that’s just temporary — I know it’s a transitional phase.”
Despite the break from touring, Hammett expressed readiness and physical preparedness for the tour:
“Heading into this tour, I was completely ready and in shape, which is quite remarkable given my responsibilities at home and everything. But miraculously, I managed to pull it all together — yes, miraculously. So when it was time to hit the road, I was like, ‘Yeah, let’s do this.’”
Reflecting on his career as a musician, Hammett highlighted the privilege of getting paid to do what he loves:
“I mean, let’s be real. I’m a musician. I’m a guitarist. It’s a tremendous opportunity because I play my guitar every day — to get paid for it, well, of course I’m going to… I’d be playing my guitar anyway. Might as well make a living out of it.”
Hammett Advocates for More Touring
Despite Metallica’s extensive touring history, Hammett believes there’s always room for more. Currently on the M72 tour, which resumed after the hiatus, he expressed joy at being back on the road:
“I’m just thrilled to be out here, bringing our music to the fans, as always. It’s great to have that feeling of Metallica being a working, touring band because sometimes I miss that, feeling like we don’t tour enough.”
Responding to Criticism of His Guitar Solo
When Metallica released ‘Lux Æterna,’ the lead single from their album ’72 Seasons,’ some critics on YouTube scrutinized Hammett’s use of the Floyd Rose tremolo system in his solo. They even posted their own versions and labeled Kirk’s solo as the band’s ‘weakest.’ One video was titled ‘Why everyone hates the solo in Metallica’s new song?’
In an interview with Total Guitar, Hammett addressed the critique, defending his approach to playing solos that suit the song’s context:
“Sure, my buddies down the street might play a ‘better’ solo than ‘Lux Æterna’ — but what’s the point? For me, it’s about playing what’s right for the song, capturing the moment.”
Hammett also criticized the emphasis on teIchnical prowess like sweep picking, arguing that musicality and fitting the song’s vibe are more significant considerations.
