Metallica's WorldWired tour introduced a unique twist to their performances, and it's all thanks to the dynamic duo of Rob Trujillo and Kirk Hammett. These two musicians have been jamming together, creating what fans now affectionately call the 'Doodle'. But what started as a simple jam session has evolved into something much more special.
During their tour, Rob and Kirk decided to pay homage to local music scenes by covering a local song in each city they visited. This is where the magic happens. From Golden Earring's 'Radar Love' in Amsterdam to Prince's 'When Doves Cry' in Minneapolis, the pair have become masters of surprise. They've covered a diverse range of artists, from heavy metal legends like Black Sabbath to local gems like Zero Boys and Xutos & Pontapés.
What makes this segment of their show so captivating is its raw and spontaneous nature. The songs are learned just before the performance, and Rob often reads the lyrics from a music stand, sometimes in a foreign language. It's a testament to their musical prowess and a refreshing departure from the typical, polished performances we're used to seeing.
However, not all of these 'Doodles' are created equal. Some covers, like their rendition of 'I Wanna Be Adored' in Manchester, fell flat, while others, like 'Jožin Z Bažin' in Prague, became unforgettable moments. This inconsistency is part of the charm, adding an element of unpredictability to their shows. It's a gamble, but when it pays off, it creates a unique connection with the audience, a shared experience that can't be replicated.
Personally, I find this approach to be a brilliant way to engage with fans and showcase the band's versatility. It's a nod to the local culture and a chance for Metallica to step out of their comfort zone. It also highlights the band's humility; they're not afraid to try something new and potentially fail. This is a rare trait in such established artists, and it's why Metallica continues to be a force in the music industry.
The 'Doodle' phenomenon also raises questions about the nature of tribute and cover songs. When does a cover become a unique interpretation, and when does it veer into 'butchering' territory, as Celtic Frost's frontman Tom G. Warrior suggested? It's a fine line, and one that Metallica has sometimes straddled. But that's the beauty of live music—it's raw, it's real, and it's always a gamble.
In conclusion, Metallica's 'Doodles' are more than just a tour gimmick; they're a celebration of local music, a display of musical prowess, and a testament to the band's willingness to take risks. It's this kind of innovation and fan engagement that keeps Metallica at the forefront of the metal scene, even after all these years.
