Metallica Brings Back the ’80s Spirit With Flawless “Inamorata” Debut in Munich
On May 26, 2024, Metallica delivered something unforgettable at the Olympiastadion in Munich, Germany: the first-ever live performance of “Inamorata.” This wasn’t just another deep cut—it was the band’s longest studio track ever, stretching over 11 minutes, and its arrival on stage marked one of the most anticipated moments of the entire M72 World Tour.
The song, originally released on their 2023 album 72 Seasons, had always stood out. With its heavy, brooding tempo and emotional depth, “Inamorata” showcased Metallica at their most mature—both musically and lyrically. Fans speculated for months whether it would ever be played live due to its complexity, but Munich got the exclusive moment.
Before launching into the song, James Hetfield took a moment to connect with the audience. “We’ve never, ever played this before,” he said with a grin. “Mistakes? Nah. We call them unique moments.” That honesty drew applause and set a relaxed, heartfelt tone for the performance that followed.
The band then dove into the opening notes with laser focus. From the first riff, it was clear this wouldn’t be a rough rehearsal—this was tight, powerful, and precise. The transitions between sections were seamless, from clean melodic interludes to the crushing weight of the chorus.
Robert Trujillo’s bass solo during the final breakdown stood out as a highlight. He later mentioned in interviews that he aimed for something Geezer Butler-like, channeling classic Sabbath tones to give the ending a dark, sludgy groove that contrasted with Hetfield’s introspective lyrics.
The stage setup in Munich helped elevate the experience even further. Using the unique “in-the-round” layout of the M72 tour, the band surrounded the audience, creating an immersive sonic experience. The lighting and pyro effects gave “Inamorata” the same epic weight as staples like “One” or “Fade to Black.”
Reviews poured in afterward, calling the show one of the most technically flawless of the tour. Music publications and fan forums alike raved about the clean execution of such a demanding track. Some even went as far as to call it one of Metallica’s cleanest live performances ever.
Online, fans couldn’t stop talking about it. On Reddit and YouTube, viewers described the performance as “spiritual” and “transcendent.” One fan said, “I didn’t think they’d pull this off live, but that was perfect from start to finish.”
Many also praised Hetfield’s vocals, which, despite the song’s range and intensity, remained steady and expressive. After decades of touring, it’s no small feat to sing with such emotional clarity—especially on a track so lyrically heavy.
The crowd in Munich was fully locked in throughout. Unlike the usual mosh pits or shouted choruses, the atmosphere during “Inamorata” was almost reverent. Thousands stood still, listening closely, hanging on every note and word.
This song’s live debut was also a reminder of Metallica’s evolution. “Inamorata” is not a thrash anthem—it’s a slow-burning epic filled with grief, reflection, and weariness. It shows how the band is willing to take creative risks that challenge both themselves and their audience.
In interviews after the show, Lars Ulrich joked about how long the song was, but emphasized how rewarding it felt to perform something so different from their usual setlist. “We love pushing ourselves,” he said. “This was something special.”
Critics pointed out that Metallica could have easily avoided the challenge and stuck to hits. But by including “Inamorata,” they showed that even four decades in, they’re not afraid to make bold, artistic statements in front of tens of thousands.
There was also a nostalgic undercurrent to the night. Many older fans compared the song’s vibe to “The Outlaw Torn” or “Bleeding Me,” but noted that “Inamorata” felt wiser—like a band that’s been through the storm and is finally sitting with the silence afterward.
What happened in Munich wasn’t just a song debut—it was a moment. One of those rare performances where everything clicks: the band, the sound, the crowd, the song. It was a reminder that Metallica is still evolving, still pushing limits, and still giving fans new reasons to believe.
