Metallica madness has taken over Perth as the city gets behind legendary rockers ahead of their Perth show on Saturday night.
Metallica mania is set to reach a fever pitch in Perth as the legendary heavy metal band prepares to launch the Australian leg of their M72 World Tour at Optus Stadium on Saturday night. This marks the band’s first visit to Australia in over a decade, and excitement is palpable among fans eager to witness the iconic thrash metal group live.
Lead singer James Hetfield was spotted incognito aboard a Rottnest Express ferry on Thursday afternoon, accompanied by his girlfriend Adriana Gillett. The sighting has only intensified the anticipation as the countdown to the national tour launch continues.
Metallica’s Return to Australia
Dubbed the biggest of the “Big Four” thrash bands, Metallica’s return to Australia is a significant event for the nation’s music scene. Comprising founders James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich, alongside Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo, the band will be supported by nostalgic rockers Evanescence and Suicidal Tendencies.
Fans are buzzing with speculation over Metallica’s setlist, and PerthNow has shared exclusive photographs of the infamous Snake Pit—a thrilling mosh pit integrated into the stage design. While the final form of the stage remains “top secret,” Optus Stadium chief executive Mike McKenna assured fans that those with Snake Pit tickets will have an intimate 360-degree experience.
The Fan Experience
Metallica super-fan Dean Pearce, who has already attended 13 M72 concerts across Europe, is set to follow the band throughout their Australian tour. “The Perth show this Saturday will be my 14th, and then Adelaide and Melbourne will make it 16,” Pearce shared. His dedication to the band is evident in his extensive collection of Metallica memorabilia, which he began amassing as a child.
Meanwhile, Metallica has partnered with the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, offering donors a limited edition t-shirt designed by the band’s artist, SQUINDO. This initiative has seen a 50% increase in blood donations, with many first-time donors participating. Lifeblood chief executive Steven Cornelissen expressed gratitude, stating, “We need blood and plasma every day, and to have new donors join us is fantastic.”
Anticipation Builds for Saturday’s Show
With all eyes on Perth for the national tour launch, Mr. McKenna promised a night that local metal fans will never forget. The event is expected to be a far cry from Metallica’s 2010 performance at the Burswood Dome, with the outdoor atmosphere adding to the experience.
Fans can expect a soundcheck prior to the show, potentially echoing familiar tunes like “Enter Sandman” or “Fade to Black” across neighboring suburbs. “Everything I’ve been told is, it’s going to be eardrum-rattling territory,” McKenna revealed.
Attendees will also enjoy Metallica-themed food options, including “nothing else batters” fish tortillas and “fight fire with fire” burgers. Organizers hope to sell close to 60,000 tickets before showtime, though several seating options remained available as of Thursday afternoon.
Impact on Optus Stadium and Beyond
Saturday night will mark the first concert showcase at the stadium since March 2024, when American pop singer Pink performed as part of her Summer Carnival tour. The show will kick off a summer of live entertainment at Optus Stadium, with upcoming performances by AC/DC and Ed Sheeran.
However, the influx of metal fans raises questions about the stadium’s readiness for the first Ashes test in less than three weeks. Mr. McKenna assured that “lots of planning” goes into protecting the wicket, with measures in place to ensure the concert does not jeopardize the cricket pitch.
“We cover it just as the concert’s about to start, and we take the covering off straight afterward,” he explained. “The curators will have plenty of time to prepare it while everything goes on around the wicket.”
As Perth prepares for a night of heavy metal, the excitement surrounding Metallica’s return is undeniable. With promises of an unforgettable experience, fans are ready to rock out to one of the world’s most iconic bands.
