Metallica Ignites Philadelphia with a Blazing Rendition of “Blackened” on May 25, 2025

At Metallica’s May 25, 2025 performance at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, fans were hit with a surprise no one saw coming — a deep cut from the band’s thrash-era roots that hadn’t graced many recent setlists. When the unmistakable opening riff began, the crowd erupted with shock and excitement, instantly recognizing a song many thought they’d never hear live again. “Blackened,” originally released in 1988 as the explosive first track of …And Justice for All, remains one of Metallica’s most aggressive and complex compositions. Their performance that night proved it still hits just as hard, nearly four decades later.

“Blackened” opened with its signature reversed guitar intro, leading into a barrage of thrash metal intensity. James Hetfield’s vocals were as fierce as ever, delivering the song’s apocalyptic themes with conviction. Kirk Hammett’s guitar solos soared with electrifying speed, while Lars Ulrich’s relentless drumming drove the rhythm. Robert Trujillo’s thunderous bass added a seismic presence, shaking the stadium to its core.

The performance was part of Metallica’s “No Repeat Weekend” concept, where each night featured a completely different setlist and lineup. On this second night in Philadelphia, Pantera and Suicidal Tendencies opened the evening, building anticipation before Metallica took the stage with a fury that matched the city’s energy.

The stage was set in a 360-degree “Snake Pit” layout, allowing fans to surround the band from all sides. This unique configuration created an intimate yet overwhelming experience, as Metallica delivered their performance with fans just feet away. The lighting and effects punctuated the chaos of “Blackened,” with synchronized strobes that pulsed in time with every beat.

Fans reacted with explosive enthusiasm, forming mosh pits, pumping fists in the air, and shouting every lyric back to Hetfield. The shared energy between crowd and band reached a fever pitch during the breakdowns, as flames shot skyward and the sound of 65,000 voices echoed across the stadium.

“Blackened” has long been one of Metallica’s most technically demanding songs, and its themes of environmental destruction and end-of-the-world imagery hit just as hard today. Despite the song’s age, the band approached it with renewed aggression, proving they haven’t lost a step over decades of touring.

Including a deep cut like “Blackened” in the setlist—especially in a non-repetitive format—highlighted Metallica’s respect for their longtime fans. It also introduced younger fans to the more intricate, progressive era of the band’s history, offering a deeper appreciation of their musical evolution.

The M72 World Tour continues to earn praise for its fusion of innovation and nostalgia. Supporting their newest album 72 Seasons, Metallica seamlessly blends new material with songs like “Blackened” that defined the genre. Their ability to alternate between eras keeps the experience fresh while satisfying lifelong devotees.

In addition to the concert itself, Philadelphia fans were treated to a Metallica pop-up shop featuring exclusive merch and memorabilia. The band’s outreach beyond the stage added another layer to the event, transforming it into a full-blown cultural weekend for die-hards and newcomers alike.

The return to Philadelphia marked Metallica’s first appearance in the city since 2018, and the enthusiasm was electric. Fans filled the streets before and after the show, chanting, tailgating, and celebrating as though it were a once-in-a-lifetime event—and for many, it truly was.

The sheer force of “Blackened” live reminded everyone in the stadium why Metallica continues to reign over the metal scene. Few bands can match the sonic brutality and emotional ferocity they unleashed that night, and even fewer can sustain it with the kind of technical mastery they displayed.

The night wasn’t just about nostalgia—it was about showing the world that Metallica still operates at a level most bands can only aspire to. Their passion, professionalism, and sheer power made “Blackened” feel like it was written yesterday rather than nearly four decades ago.

The M72 Tour also draws strength from its carefully curated supporting acts, with Pantera and Suicidal Tendencies adding historic depth and heavy energy to the night. It’s a generational tour in every sense—built for those who grew up on thrash and those discovering it for the first time.

Even beyond the music, Metallica continues to influence the culture of metal with philanthropy and fan engagement through the All Within My Hands Foundation. That balance of community and crushing sound is what sets them apart and keeps fans coming back tour after tour.

Metallica’s rendition of “Blackened” in Philadelphia wasn’t just a performance—it was a full-body experience. With fire, fury, and feeling, they proved once again why they are the standard-bearers of metal. As they thunder on through the M72 World Tour, one thing is clear: the flame still burns, and it’s as blackened as ever.