James Hetfield Interview on How “Fast Guitars” Changed Metallica
James Hetfield reveals how “fast” guitars changed Metallica throughout their career.
Hetfield, the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the band, has announced that he will be releasing a new book, titled ‘Messengers: The Guitars of James Hetfield‘ on October 2023, which showcases his collection of custom guitars, tabs, and lyrics.
We will also look into the story behind James Hetfield‘s passion for guitars. As well as the significance of his collection in the context of the heavy metal music scene.
He also shared a press statement about his upcoming guitar book:
“From the Electra OGV that defined his style, sound, and attitude to the mythical MX guitars, the first in a series of iconic collaborations with ESP, and from his signature Snakebytes through his ambitious projects with renowned luthier Ken Lawrence, James Hetfield shares the emotional and technical elements of the chosen tools that have shaped his singular musical journey, including exotic instruments, vintage Gibsons, and custom one-offs.
He reveals many studio secrets, including the key amplifiers and gear that sculpt his tone and create his sound. Each featured guitar is accompanied by lush museum-quality portraits by acclaimed photographer Scott Williamson, exhibiting intimate details one can only see if holding it in their own hands, alongside Hetfield’s deeply personal reminiscence. Spanning more than forthy guitars, ranging from the original battle-scarred road warriors to the trusted studio stalwarts and enduring tour favorites, Messengers: The Guitars of James Hetfield is a meticulously crafted coffee table book and a mesmerizing window into the mind and soul of one of rock’s greatest front men. These invaluable guitars have forged over four decades of music history.”
James Hetfield will tell stories about the guitars that have influenced his life and work, including his “cheap” Michael Schenker-inspired Electra Flying V. Also, he initially misunderstood for a Gibson when Metallica was just beginning:
“Lars was as excited as I was and I did not care that it was a copy of a Gibson. It played great, it sounded great, and it had the look that I wanted.
I’m not being overly dramatic in saying that if there was a guitar that changed the course of my history, it was the Electra OGV. It was a whole other level, and besides its shape and its stark whiteness, it demanded your eyes and attention. It wanted you to look at it. Maybe because it’s shaped like an arrow, or maybe it just sounds and looks fast.
It’s one of the fastest guitars I have to this day. It gave me extra confidence, almost like a shield.”
Metallica’s new studio album ‘72 Seasons‘ will be released on April 14, 2023.
