Kirk Hammett Excited about Performing at the Sphere – “Heck Yeah”
Renowned guitarist Kirk Hammett is undeniably a musical icon, known for crafting unforgettable riffs and guitar solos on Metallica hits like “Master of Puppets” and “One.” In a monumental move, Hammett recently collaborated with Gibson on The Collection series, a lavish 400-page book that delves into his impressive collection of guitars accumulated throughout his lengthy career.
Teaming up with acclaimed rock photographer Ross Halfin, who has a long-standing relationship with Metallica, Hammett spent two and a half years meticulously curating this exquisite tome. The book showcases an array of his prized possessions, from the legendary “Greeny,” a 1959 Les Paul Standard previously owned by Peter Green of Fleetwood Mac fame, to his cherished 1985 Jackson Randy Rhoads Flying V.
Acknowledging the complexity of the book’s creation process, Hammett confesses, “There’s a lot more to making a book than just slapping pictures on a page. I learned that the hard way.” Evocative images juxtapose Hammett’s guitars against vibrant, natural settings in Honolulu, a deliberate departure from the typical heavy metal imagery associated with them. In addition to the stunning visuals, Gibson’s editor-in-chief Chris Vinnicombe conducted insightful interviews to complement the photos.
Amidst Metallica’s demanding M72 North American tour schedule, Hammett will participate in engaging conversations with Mark Agnesi of Gibson in various cities. Reflecting on the production of the book, Hammett sheds light on Metallica’s unwavering connection with their devoted fanbase and their embrace of cutting-edge technologies like video games and augmented reality to enhance the concert experience.
When asked about the possibility of performing at The Sphere, Hammett enthusiastically responds with a resounding “Heck yeah!” His enthusiasm and passion for music are evident in every aspect of his career, propelling him to the status of a guitar virtuoso. The allure of witnessing Hammett’s electrifying presence on stage at The Sphere is undoubtedly a captivating prospect for both longtime fans and music enthusiasts alike.
In closing, Hammett’s innovative collaboration with Gibson not only showcases his unparalleled skill as a guitarist but also offers fans a rare glimpse into the inner sanctum of his treasured collection. From iconic instruments with rich histories to lesser-known gems, The Collection series encapsulates the essence of Kirk Hammett’s enduring legacy in the world of rock music.