Kirk Hammett picks his favorite music albums of all time. Metallica‘s guitarist Kirk Hammett is a well-known guitarist and he likes to add extra guitar techniques and styles to his music and solos for Metallica band. In this article, we will detail the albums that Kirk Hammett picked as his favorite of all time.
Kirk Hammett, the lead guitarist of Metallica, has made an unforgettable appearance in metal music with his guitar mastery and pivotal role in heavy metal. Hammett’s incredible career, unusual playing style, and lasting impact on the metal genre.
Kirk Hammett, one of Metallica’s founding members, joined the band in 1983 and rapidly established himself as a vital element in their sound. Hammett contributed to the band’s progression from thrash metal pioneers to global superstars with his remarkable technical skills, passionate playing, and knack for writing memorable solos.
Hammett’s playing style combines speed, melody, and raw emotion to create a musical textile that resonates with metal fans all around the world. He is known for his precise and fluid lead guitar work, and his ability to fluidly segue from rapid shredding to melodic passages has gained him plaudits from both fans and fellow musicians.
Throughout Metallica’s lengthy record, Hammett has given remarkable guitar performances that have come to be associated with the band’s most renowned songs. From face-melting solos in “Master of Puppets” and “Fade to Black” to soaring melodies in “One” and “The Unforgiven,” his contributions have helped shape Metallica’s style.
Hammett has made important contributions to the metal world outside of his work with Metallica. He has worked with a number of groups, notably Exodus, to add his particular guitar style to their records, solidifying his name as a renowned player in the genre.
The impact of Hammett goes far beyond his musical ability. With his technical prowess, inventive approach to songwriting, and undying dedication to his albums, he has inspired countless budding guitarists.
Kirk Hammett’s Favorite Albums of All Time
Kirk Hammett has also been known to share his respect for musicians that trying to the world. Hammett picked his favorite albums of all time. He also loves to listen to so many genres between rock and metal.
Kirk Hammett also talked about the latest Metallica ‘M72’ album:
“I’m not supposed to talk about the new album. Everyone warns me ‘Don’t talk about the new album!’, so you can ask me 20 questions and it’ll just be me politely finding different ways of me saying ‘I can’t talk about the new album!’
Damn! According to the American school system, that equates to about a D-minus – failing! You know, I am a Kentucky Fried Brain Cell Fool. But I’m doing my best to regenerate them as gently as possible. It’s a good job I’ve been sober for the last 7 and a half years or else I would have got all 10 wrong!”
What kind of albums does Kirk Hammett love?
- Kid A – Radiohead
- De-Loused in the Comatorium – The Mars Volta
- () – Sigur Ros
- Absolution – Muse
- Ashes Of The Wake – Lamb of God
- Welcome To Jamrock – Damian Marley
- Crack The Skye – Mastodon
- Speakerboxxx/ The Love Below – Outkast
- Turn On The Bright Lights – Interpol
- 100 Days, 100 Nights – Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings
Kirk Hammett shared in an interview with Rolling Stone magazine the Top 10 Albums of All Time. Here is the Kirk Hammett picks albums as follows and check out the list below!
1. Kid A – Radiohead
When Radiohead‘s pioneering album “Kid A” was released in the year 2000, it shattered expectations and changed the limits of alternative music. This overview delves into the experimental character, aural inventiveness, and thematic depth that makes Radiohead’s “Kid A” an enduring masterpiece.
“Kid A” breaks down considerably from Radiohead’s previous guitar-driven sound, embracing electronic soundscapes, unique song structures, and ambient environments. The album defies categorization and challenges listeners’ assumptions by effortlessly blending elements of rock, electronica, jazz, and avant-garde.
From the somber “Everything in Its Right Place” to the surreal atmospherics of “How to Disappear Completely” and the frenzied intensity of “Idioteque,” “Kid A” immerses the listener in a kaleidoscope of aural exploration. The rigorous attention to detail and willingness to push musical boundaries by Radiohead resulted in a compilation of songs that are both academically stimulating and emotionally compelling.
“Kid A” explores problems like alienation, societal anxiety, and the impact of technology on human connection.
Kirk Hammett shared why he likes “Kid A” by Radiohead as one of his favorite albums of all time:
“My musical tastes change every week. I get stuck on a certain CD and play the shit out of it, driving everyone around me crazy. But the best guitar thing I’ve heard in a long time is the new Radiohead album. I listen to so much different music.”
2. De-Loused in the Comatorium – The Mars Volta
“De-Loused in the Comatorium,” The Mars Volta‘s debut album, is a vivid tribute to the band’s inexhaustible invention, technical virtuosity, and adventurous attitude. This synopsis delves into the philosophical complexity, exquisite musicianship, and raw passion that characterize this progressive rock masterwork.
“De-Loused in the Comatorium” transports listeners on a hypnotic aural trip through a hallucinatory story inspired by the life and death of a fictional man named Cerpin Taxt.
From the album’s strong opening song, “Son et Lumière,” to the epic closer, “Take the Veil Cerpin Taxt,” the album captivates with its relentless energy, sophisticated orchestration, and passionate performances. The interaction between Omar Rodrguez-López’s sophisticated guitar work and Cedric Bixler-Zavala’s emotionally driven vocals drives the album’s intensity.
Rick Rubin and Omar Rodrguez-López’s production enriches the album’s musical complexities while capturing the raw energy of The Mars Volta’s live performances. The layers of instrumentation, which include keyboards, horns, and percussion, create a rich and deep sound world that begs to be heard again and again.
Kirk Hammett revealed why he likes “De-Loused in the Comatorium” by The Mars Volta as one of his favorite albums of all time:
“After that, I started listening to Yes and Genesis and King Crimson and all different kinds of stuff. Plus, I always had an affinity for bands like The Mars Volta, Dixie Dregs, Return to Forever and Mahavishnu Orchestra, so I was more attuned to the fusion stuff.
So, when I heard the prog, it was just like, this is a bridge between those two worlds: jazz fusion and rock or heavy metal.”
3. () Untitled #8 – Sigur Ros
Sigur Rós, the Icelandic post-rock band famous for their atmospheric soundscapes and ethereal vocals, has released their eighth studio album, simply named “Untitled #8.” This synopsis delves into the cryptic and captivating record’s unearthly beauty, aural experimentation, and emotional depth.
“Untitled #8” shows Sigur Rós at their creative peak, fusing elements of post-rock, ambient, and classical music to produce a one-of-a-kind and immersive auditory experience. The album is distinguished by ethereal textures, Jónsi Birgisson’s soaring falsetto vocals, and a sense of grandeur that transports listeners to an introspective and mystical environment.
“Untitled #8” envelops the listener in a world of aural beauty and emotional intensity, from the delicate beginning notes of “()” to the grandiose crescendos of “() E-Bow.” From subtle whispers to towering climaxes, the band’s superb use of dynamics produces a sense of tension and release that keeps the listener interested throughout.
4. Absolution – Muse
Muse, the British rock band pointed out for their grandiose sound and dramatic shows, released a landmark album “Absolution.” This synopsis delves into the famous rock masterpiece’s dramatic intensity, soaring melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics.
“Absolution” exemplifies Muse’s ability to combine aspects of alternative rock, progressive rock, and classical influences into a unified and exciting auditory experience. From the album’s opening track, “Apocalypse Please,” to the grandiose climax, “Ruled by Secrecy,” the album transports listeners on an emotional rollercoaster, enthralling them with its intensity and musical skill.
“Absolution” goes into topics of love, war, disillusionment, and societal difficulties lyrically, providing thought-provoking commentary amidst the aural barrage. With their catchy hooks, addictive energy, and socially conscious sentiments, songs like “Hysteria,” “Time Is Running Out,” and “Stockholm Syndrome” ring true.
Muse and producer Rich Costey work together to create a sound that is both huge and detailed in the album’s production. Instrumentation layers like strings, synthesizers, and electronic elements provide depth and richness to the music, strengthening its epic quality.
5. Ashes Of The Wake – Lamb of God
Lamb of God, famous for their violent sound and thought-provoking lyrics, unleashed a devastating album with “Ashes of the Wake.”
“Ashes of the Wake” showcases Lamb of God‘s ability to create bone-crushing riffs, searing guitar solos, and a thunderous rhythm section, resulting in a sonic onslaught that captivates listeners from beginning to end. The album’s forceful and close instrumentation is driven by guitarists Mark Morton and Willie Adler, as well as Chris Adler’s relentless drumming.
“Ashes of the Wake” goes into topics such as war, governmental corruption, and social injustice in its lyrics. “Now You’ve Got Something to Die For” and “Omerta” provide harsh comments on the effects of war and power manipulation, while “Laid to Rest” and “Hourglass” address personal difficulties and the human condition.
When “Ashes of the Wake” was released, it gained significant critical acclaim, with many hailing it as a landmark album in modern metal.
Kirk Hammett told why he likes “Ashes of the Wake” by Lamb of God as one of his favorite albums of all time:
“As a long-time Lamb of God fan. I just want to say that this album is Seriously Greaty! @lambofgod”
6. Welcome To Jamrock – Damian Marley
Damian Marley, the son of the great Bob Marley and a Jamaican reggae performer, created a fascinating and socially conscious album with “Welcome to Jamrock.” This overview goes into the addictive beats, passionate lyrics, and cultural relevance that characterize this legendary reggae masterpiece.
“Welcome to Jamrock” reflects the essence of Jamaica’s thriving music industry, blending reggae with hip-hop, dancehall, and traditional Jamaican sounds. “Welcome to Jamrock,” the album’s title tune, immediately sets the tone with its irresistible rhythm, catchy hooks, and hard-hitting social criticism, putting light on Jamaica’s dark realities of poverty, violence, and corruption in the government.
Damian Marley shows his poetic prowess throughout the album, tackling a wide range of sociopolitical topics while honoring Jamaica’s resiliency and cultural richness. Tracks such as “Pimpa’s Paradise,” “Road to Zion,” and “Confrontation” serve as a vehicle for Marley’s insightful and thought-provoking lyrics, which address issues such as inequity, spirituality, and personal growth.
The album’s production, led by Damian Marley and a team of brilliant producers, has a strict attention to detail.
Kirk Hammett shares thoughts about why he likes “Welcome To Jamrock” by Damian Marley as one of his favorite albums of all time:
“Damian Marley’s ‘Welcome to Jamrock’ – the original and, for some reason, a live version with Jack Johnson — and it doesn’t stop there.”
7. Crack The Skye – Mastodon
Mastodon, the Atlanta-based progressive metal band, set out on a daring musical journey with their critically praised album “Crack the Skye.” This synopsis digs into the album’s rich plot, amazing musicianship, and enticing blend of heaviness and melody, which distinguishes it as a remarkable release in the metal industry.
“Crack the Skye” takes listeners on a philosophical voyage through spirituality, astral projection, and the infinite vastness of the universe. Drummer Brann Dailor wrote a complicated story for the record.
Tracks like “Oblivion,” “Divinations,” and the epic title track “Crack the Skye” show the band’s mastery of technique and ability to effortlessly switch between crushing heaviness and more introspective periods. Brent Hinds’ and Bill Kelliher’s brilliant guitar work, mixed with Troy Sanders’ booming basslines and Brann Dailor’s unrelenting drumming, forms a musical tapestry that is both intricate and hypnotic.
Brendan O’Brien’s production highlights the band’s raw energy while keeping a crisp and polished sound.
8. Speakerboxxx/ The Love Below – Outkast
Outkast, the dynamic Atlanta-based hip-hop group comprised of Andre 3000 and Big Boi, redefined their genre with their seminal double album “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below.”
“Speakerboxxx/The Love Below” is a one-of-a-kind concept album that exhibits Andre 3000 and Big Boi’s individual artistic perspectives. While Andre 3000’s “The Love Below” delves into the realm of traditional hip-hop, showcasing his impeccable flow, lyrical prowess, and Southern-inspired beats, Big Boi’s “Speakerboxxx” calls into the realm of love, relationships, and personal introspection through a fusion of R&B, funk, and pop influences.
“Speakerboxxx/The Love Below” shows a wide range of concepts, including love, self-discovery, societal critique, and personal progress. Andre 3000’s introspective and poetic lines on songs like “Spread” and “Prototype” exhibit his sensitivity and literary brilliance, but Big Boi’s confident and snappy delivery on songs like “Ghetto Musick” and “The Way You Move” display his storytelling ability and appealing presence.
9. Turn On The Bright Lights – Interpol
Interpol, a New York-based indie rock band, left an indelible mark on the music landscape with their debut album “Turn On The Bright Lights.” The dreamy and dark acoustics of “Turn On The Bright Lights” fascinate listeners.
The album’s lyrics cover themes of alienation, urban life, and reflection. Paul Banks, the album’s lead vocalist, delivers his poetic and introspective lyrics with detached coolness, adding to the album’s cryptic vibe.
Songs like “Obstacle 1” and “NYC” highlight his vivid storytelling, whilst “PDA” and “Leif Erikson” allow room for interpretation, inviting listeners to delve into their own personal introspection.
“Turn On The Bright Lights” received critical acclaim upon its debut and has since been regarded as an important album in the indie rock genre.
10. 100 Days, 100 Nights – Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings
“100 Days, 100 Nights” by Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings is a soulful masterpiece that pays respect to legendary sounds of the past while infusing them with contemporary energy.
“100 Days, 100 Nights” is a monument to Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings’ true commitment to preserving the spirit of soul music.
Sharon Jones’ powerful vocal performance is at the center of the record. Her powerful voice glides smoothly across the tracks, giving real emotion and commanding attention. Jones captivates audiences with her evident talent and genuineness, ranging from fierce and passionate to tender and vulnerable. Her performance on songs like “100 Days, 100 Nights” and the emotional ballad “Let Them Knock” demonstrates her ability to connect with audiences on a deep level.
What are your thoughts on guitarist Metallica‘s guitarist Kirk Hammett‘s favorite albums of all time? Let me know in the comment section!
The post The Top 10 Albums Kirk Hammett Picked As His Favorites Of All Time appeared first on Metal Shout.
