On August 28, 2020 "Metallica" released the album "S&M2".
When "Metallica" reunited with the San Francisco Symphony for "S&M2", fans knew they were in for something special. The original "S&M" from 1999 was a groundbreaking fusion of heavy metal and classical music that pushed the boundaries of both genres, largely thanks to the vision of Michael Kamen, the legendary composer and conductor who orchestrated that first collaboration. Two decades later, "S&M2" isn’t just a reprise of that earlier success—it’s a bold evolution that reflects how far both "Metallica" and their music have come, paying homage to Kamen's legacy while exploring new musical territories. This release is a sonic and visual masterpiece that revisits and expands on the original with richer sound, a dynamic setlist, and a stunning video production that captures the grandeur of the performances.
Michael Kamen’s influence on the original "S&M" cannot be overstated. His ability to seamlessly blend "Metallica’s" raw energy with the lush sounds of a full orchestra was revolutionary. Kamen’s arrangements elevated tracks like “The Call of Ktulu” and “Nothing Else Matters” to new heights, creating a unique and unforgettable listening experience. Although Kamen passed away in 2003, his spirit is very much alive in "S&M2", with conductors Edwin Outwater and Michael Tilson Thomas filling in for him. The new arrangements, while building on his original work, also take on a life of their own, showcasing how his pioneering efforts continue to inspire and guide "Metallica’s" collaboration with the symphony.
The album opens with the familiar, yet still spine-tingling, rendition of “The Ecstasy of Gold,” setting the tone for an experience that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly new. Right from the first notes of “The Call of Ktulu,” the symphony’s fuller, more dynamic presence is felt. If those two tracks were an exciting experiment in "S&M", then "S&M2" is a fully realized vision where the orchestra doesn’t just complement the band but becomes an integral part of the music’s soul. The enhanced sound quality is immediately apparent, benefiting from modern production techniques that allow every note, from the subtle strings to the thunderous drums, to shine with crystal clarity. The mix is more balanced, giving the orchestra and the band equal footing, creating a cohesive and powerful listening experience that outshines the original in every way.
The setlist of "S&M2" is another highlight, carefully curated to blend classics (Most of which was on the "S&M" setlist), with newer material. While staples like “Master of Puppets”, “One”, "For Whom the Bell Tolls", "Nothing Else Matters" and "Enter Sandman" return with renewed vigor, the inclusion of tracks like “The Unforgiven III”, "The Day That Never Comes" and “Moth into Flame” showcases "Metallica’s" evolution over the years. These newer songs not only fit seamlessly within the orchestral framework but also demonstrate the band’s willingness to explore different emotional and musical textures. The setlist also includes deep cuts like "All Within My Hands (Acoustic)" which is a beautiful rendition of the song from the "St. Anger" album, offering fans a broader view of "Metallica’s" discography while still delivering the high-energy performances they crave. Another great surprise in the setlist is Cliff Burton's instrumental "(Anesthesia) - Pulling Teeth" from the album "Kill 'Em All", which gets a beautiful symphonic arrangement.
The comparisons between "S&M" and "S&M2" reveal just how far "Metallica" has come. James Hetfield’s voice carries more emotional weight, particularly on “The Unforgiven III,” a track that wasn’t even conceived when the original "S&M" was recorded. This roaring lion who in the early days of the band felt insecure about his vocal abilities and even invited John Bush to take his place as the band's singer, manages to convey so much emotion in his vocals. It is one of Hetfield's exciting performance as he stands vulnerable and unprotected in front of the crowd without his guitar (we will dare to add - as if he was naked). Another change from the previous release, is Kirk Hammett’s guitar solos. Already searing in 1999, now cut through the orchestral arrangements with even more precision and depth. The real magic of "S&M2" lies in the new interpretations of classic "Metallica" tracks like “Master of Puppets” and “One.” On "S&M", these tracks were thrilling, on "S&M2", they’re transcendent. The symphony’s role has evolved from simply adding layers to creating an entire atmosphere—one that amplifies the intensity and complexity of these metal anthems.
But "S&M2" is more than just an album—it’s a full multimedia experience. The video recording of the concert is a must-watch, capturing the energy and intensity of the live performances with stunning cinematography. Directed with a keen eye for detail, the video brings the audience right onto the stage, allowing viewers to feel the palpable connection between "Metallica", the orchestra, and the fans. The accompanying documentary provides additional context, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the preparation and execution of this monumental event. It’s a fascinating look at how two distinct musical worlds come together, and it gives fans a deeper appreciation for the artistry and effort involved.
But what truly sets "S&M2" apart from the previous release, is the willingness to push boundaries even further. The inclusion of Alexander Mosolov’s “The Iron Foundry” is a daring choice that pays off brilliantly, showcasing "Metallica’s" commitment to challenging themselves and their audience. It’s a stark contrast to the 1999 album, where the focus was on weaving the band’s hits into a classical context; here, the collaboration feels more adventurous and symbiotic, And reminds us of an equally bold choice of "Deep Purple" in "Concerto for Group and Orchestra".
While "S&M" was an audacious experiment that caught the world by surprise, "S&M2" is a triumphant realization of what that experiment set in motion. The performances are tighter, the arrangements are more intricate, and the overall production is more refined. The documentary adds layers to the experience, giving viewers a glimpse into the creative process and the challenges faced along the way. It’s clear that "Metallica" has grown both as musicians and as performers, and this maturity is reflected in every aspect of "S&M2".
In conclusion, "S&M2" is a monumental achievement that surpasses the original in almost every way. The album’s pristine sound, thoughtful setlist (although missing a few classics compared to "S&M"), and stunning video production make it an essential listen and watch for any "Metallica" fan. Whether you’re reliving the magic of "S&M" or experiencing this unique fusion for the first time, "S&M2" delivers an unforgettable journey through the sonic landscapes where metal meets symphony, cementing "Metallica’s" legacy as true pioneers of the genre.
For Listening:: Spotify, Apple Music
The Setlist:
CD 1 1. "The Ecstasy of Gold (Live)" 2. "The Call of Ktulu (Live)" 3. "For Whom the Bell Tolls (Live)" 4. "The Day That Never Comes (Live)" 5. "The Memory Remains (Live)" 6. "Confusion (Live)" 7. "Moth Into Flame (Live)" 8. "The Outlaw Torn (Live)" 9. "No Leaf Clover (Live)" 10. "Halo on Fire (Live)"
CD 2 1. "Intro to Scythian Suite (Live)" 2. "Scythian Suite, Opus 20 II: The Enemy God And The Dance Of The Dark Spirits (Live)" 3. "Intro to The Iron Foundry (Live)" 4. "The Iron Foundry, Opus 19 (Live)" 5. "The Unforgiven III (Live)" 6. "All Within My Hands (Live)" 7. "(Anesthesia) - Pulling Teeth (Live)" 8. "Wherever I May Roam (Live)" 9. "One (Live)" 10. "Master of Puppets (Live)" 11. "Nothing Else Matters (Live)" 12. "Enter Sandman (Live)"
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