American heavy metal icons Metallica brought their M72 World Tour to Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on November 12th, delivering a thunderous, career-spanning performance that reminded fans why they continue to be one of the most powerful live acts in metal history. Performing in their signature snake pit stage setup, the band surrounded the crowd with a wall of sound, fire, and raw energy. Since their formation in 1981, Metallica has both defined and redefined the sound of metal, continuing to unite generations of fans worldwide through their relentless touring and genre-defying catalogue. Presented by Live Nation, the Brisbane show marked one of the most anticipated stops on their Australian leg, with tens of thousands of fans filling the stadium to witness legends perform their first Queensland show in 12 years. Huge thanks to Live Nation and Metallica’s team for having us along at the show!
Opening the night were Suicidal Tendencies, the legendary Californian crossover thrash band who burst onto the stage with the same chaotic and unrelenting energy that has defined their career since the early ’80s. Frontman Mike Muir wasted no time getting the crowd moving, despite his age, his trademark intensity and rapid-fire delivery never faltered, igniting the audience with an infectious energy.
Their setlist was a mix of fan favourites, including ‘You Can’t Bring Me Down’ and ‘Institutionalized’, with the band’s booming bass, thundering drums, and shredding guitars setting the perfect tone for the night ahead. Suicidal Tendencies’ rebellious spirit and explosive stage presence made it clear why they remain a cornerstone of metal and punk culture, even decades after their initial debut.
Following them at 6:30pm, Evanescence took the stage, shifting the mood from trash metal to dark and melancholy in the way only Evanescence can. With the mixture of ethereal lighting and cinematic special effects playing on large jumbotrons on either side of the stage, Amy Lee’s haunting vocals filled the stadium and captivated the audience with emotional power and nostalgia.
The band delivered a stunning set that balanced the heavy guitars and vocal harmonies perfectly, performing cult-classics like ‘Bring Me to Life’, ‘My Immortal’, and ‘Going Under’. Between songs, Lee expressed deep gratitude to Metallica for inviting them on tour and to the Brisbane crowd for their overwhelming support. By the end of their set, Evanescence had left the atmosphere charged with anticipation for Metallica’s long-awaited arrival.
When the clock struck 8:15pm, the stadium lights dimmed, and an electric buzz rippled through the crowd as massive screens illuminated with a cinematic intro montage spanning over four decades of Metallica’s legendary career. From grainy early gig footage to clips from their most recent 72 Seasons era, the video built to a thunderous crescendo that sent the audience into a roar of anticipation. Then, as the final frames faded, the unmistakable opening riffs of ‘Creeping Death’ tore through Suncorp Stadium, and the band stormed onto the stage and stepping immediately into their element, surrounded by tens of thousands of fans.
Dressed in black and moving with the precision of a band that’s mastered the art of performance, James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo delivered an opening sequence that hit like a freight train for the Queensland audience, who have waited 12 whole years for the bands return. Flames erupted from all corners of the stage as Hetfield’s vocals echoed across the venue, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.
Between songs, he paused to thank Brisbane for their loyalty and energy, remarking on how surreal it felt to return to Australia after so many years. As the set continued with anthems like ‘For Whom the Bell Tolls’ and ‘Lux Æterna’, the band’s chemistry and stamina were unmatched. Each member commanded each space of the stage they stepped onto, engaging with every section of the audience as the circular screen above bathed the crowd in blinding white light and fire. Metallica’s sheer power and precision made it clear: even after more than 40 years, they remain the undisputed titans of heavy metal.
The short time I spent in the photo pit was more than enough to understand why Metallica continues to command one of, if not THE most loyal and passionate fanbase in the world. They perform as a band deeply aware of and connected to the legacy they’ve built and the community that has grown around their music. Even in those first few songs, it was clear that this wasn’t just a concert for those who attended, it was a shared experience between the band and thousands of people who have lived with their music for decades. If there’s one thing to take away from the night, it’s that Metallica performs with power and authenticity, pouring every ounce of themselves into the music. They have a rare ability to transform a stadium packed with thousands of fans into a place where every fan, both old and new, feel connected, seen, and part of something bigger than they could ever imagine.
