Metallica Brings “Holier Than Thou” Back to Life in Toronto 2025—Fans Say James Sounds Better Than Ever
On April 24, 2025, Metallica stormed Toronto’s Rogers Centre with a thunderous performance as part of their M72 World Tour. The night wasn’t just a concert—it was a full-blown celebration of their legacy, fusing nostalgia with ferocity. From pyrotechnics to crowd sing-alongs, everything about the show screamed high voltage.
Opening with the explosive “Creeping Death,” the band wasted no time in whipping the crowd into a frenzy. The energy ricocheted through the venue like electricity as fists flew into the air. Following with “Harvester of Sorrow,” they transitioned seamlessly, keeping momentum high and emotions charged.
“Holier Than Thou,” a gritty deep cut from their 1991 Black Album, made a bold return to the live setlist. The crowd erupted as soon as its opening riff hit, proving that even decades later, this snarling track hasn’t lost a shred of its bite. It was a powerful reminder of the raw sound that helped Metallica dominate the early ‘90s.
The setlist for the night was a carefully curated rollercoaster through Metallica’s decades of metal mastery. They bounced from fan-favorites like “King Nothing” to high-speed assaults like “Fight Fire With Fire.” Newer tracks such as “72 Seasons” and “If Darkness Had a Son” proved the band isn’t just coasting on past glory—they’re still evolving.
A deeply emotional moment came with the instrumental “Orion,” performed as a tribute to late bassist Cliff Burton. The song shimmered through the stadium with reverence and heart, holding the audience in a collective moment of silence and awe. It reminded everyone that Metallica’s history runs deeper than most bands ever dream.
The Rogers Centre was transformed by a massive circular stage, complete with the famed “Snake Pit” in the center. This allowed fans to surround the band from all sides, bringing a sense of intimacy to even the furthest corners of the crowd. It felt less like watching a show and more like being inside it.
Metallica’s energy didn’t let up for a second. James Hetfield’s growling vocals hit every note with fury, Kirk Hammett shredded solo after solo, Robert Trujillo commanded the low end like a warrior, and Lars Ulrich pounded the drums like he was summoning thunder. The chemistry was undeniable and electric.
Mid-show, the crowd got a special treat with the “Kirk and Rob Doodle,” a jam session filled with spontaneity, funk, and surprises. It was a fun and personal touch, showing the band’s playful side. It also offered a brief breather from the heavy barrage of riffs and allowed fans to appreciate their musicianship in a new light.
When the first notes of “Nothing Else Matters” rang out, the stadium turned into a sea of lights and voices. Fans swayed, sang, and connected across generations. Following that, “Sad but True” brought everyone crashing back into heavy territory with its bone-shaking groove and thundering riffs.
The night reached its climax with “Master of Puppets,” arguably one of the most iconic songs in heavy metal history. The performance was nothing short of jaw-dropping, as every section of the arena screamed every word. It was the kind of finale that leaves you both breathless and wanting more.
Though there were a few minor sound hiccups early in the show, none of it dampened the overall experience. The crowd was so locked in with the band that the energy quickly overtook any technical setbacks. The vibe was raw, real, and unforgettable.
The “No Repeat Weekend” format of the M72 tour brought excitement for hardcore fans. By changing setlists across consecutive nights, Metallica ensured that no two shows would ever be the same. For Toronto, that meant a one-night-only experience tailored just for them.
Beyond the music, Metallica continued their charitable efforts through the All Within My Hands Foundation. A portion of the tour’s proceeds supports workforce education and hunger relief programs, adding heart to the heavy. Fans left not only musically satisfied but proud to be part of something meaningful.
Even after more than 40 years on the road, Metallica’s passion burns as bright as ever. The Toronto concert proved they’re not just surviving—they’re thriving. With every riff, lyric, and drumbeat, they showed they still own the stage like no one else can.
As the M72 World Tour rolls on, fans around the world can look forward to nights like this—loud, emotional, and unforgettable. April 24, 2025 in Toronto was more than a date on the calendar—it was a metal milestone.
