Metallica, one of the most influential and enduring heavy metal bands in the history of music, is known for its explosive and thunderous sound. Behind the pounding rhythms of their music is a carefully selected arsenal of drum kits. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the drum kits that have powered Metallica’s iconic sound throughout their legendary career.
Lars Ulrich: The Beat Master
Lars Ulrich, the co-founder and drummer of Metallica, has been the rhythmic backbone of the band since its inception in 1981. Over the years, he has used several drum kits, each contributing to the band’s evolving sound and sonic intensity.
- Tama Drums: The Early Years
- In the early days of Metallica, particularly during their groundbreaking albums like “Kill ‘Em All,” “Ride the Lightning,” and “Master of Puppets,” Lars Ulrich primarily used Tama drum kits.
- These Tama kits, often equipped with Zildjian cymbals, helped define the aggressive and high-energy sound that became synonymous with Metallica’s early thrash metal era.
- Yamaha Drums: The Transition
- During the late 1980s and into the 1990s, Lars Ulrich transitioned to Yamaha drums. This period coincided with the release of Metallica’s self-titled album, often referred to as “The Black Album.”
- Lars used Yamaha drum kits, coupled with his distinctive style, to create a heavier and more polished sound. The powerful drumming on tracks like “Enter Sandman” and “Sad But True” showcased the impact of this transition.
- Tama Starclassic: The Return to Tama
- In the late 1990s, Lars Ulrich returned to Tama drum kits, specifically the Tama Starclassic series. These kits marked a return to a more aggressive and explosive sound, as evident on albums like “Reload” and “St. Anger.”
- The Tama Starclassic kits, combined with Lars’s energetic drumming, contributed to Metallica’s resurgence in the late ’90s and early 2000s.
- The Sonor Drums Era: A Modern Touch
- In more recent years, Lars Ulrich has been associated with Sonor drums. This era has seen Metallica continue to evolve and experiment with their sound.
- The Sonor kits, known for their high-quality craftsmanship and tonal versatility, have been featured on albums like “Death Magnetic” and “Hardwired… to Self-Destruct.”
Conclusion
The drum kits used by Metallica’s Lars Ulrich have played a crucial role in shaping the band’s dynamic and powerful sound throughout their illustrious career. From the early days of Tama drums to the polished Yamaha era, and the resurgence with Tama Starclassic kits, to the modern touch of Sonor drums, each kit has left its mark on the band’s sonic journey.
Lars Ulrich’s drumming style, characterized by his aggressive and energetic approach, has been a defining factor in Metallica’s sound. Regardless of the drum kit he chooses, it’s the synergy between his drumming and the band’s musical vision that continues to make Metallica an enduring force in the world of heavy metal. Metallica’s journey showcases how a drummer’s choice of equipment can contribute to the evolution of a band’s sound while staying true to their core identity.
