It’s no secret that Metallica are back in a big way. Their highly anticipated new album ’72 Seasons’ drops next month. And the third single, ‘If Darkness Had a Son’ is proving to be a nice step in the right direction.
Everyone calls James Hetfield the ‘riff king.’ And ‘If Darkness Had A Son’ is a prime example of his never ending genius. The introduction may be a little long winded. Clocking in at an unnecessary 95 seconds. But that’s a minor blemish. When the main riff and verse kicks in, you know this is the Metallica we’ve all come to know and love. Even while pushing 60, the band has retained a youthful energy. While still being able to come across as a mature, seasoned musicians.
As the song continues, it’s clear that Metallica have something to prove. Kirk Hammet’s solo is one of his best in the entire career of the band. No wah pedal. No tricks. Just simple, kick ass shredding like we all know he can do. Not to mention how bad ass the background riff and groove are. The half time during the final phrases are particularly tasty.
‘Darkness’ goes back to the main verse and chorus one more time before exploring one hell of an outro. Yes, it may be a little stereotypical. But it’s got that Metallica edge to it. That unspeakable element that’s made them the biggest metal band of all time. It’s the way it all works together. The arrangement as a whole. Metallica simply know how to do that better than nearly anyone. And ‘If Darkness Had a Son’ is a prime example of what makes ‘Tallica the ‘Tallica.
