Photos and a review of Metallica in Toronto

[We dispatched Laura Collins to check it out. – AC]

On a warm April night in Toronto, the Rogers Centre pulsed with the energy of thousands of metalheads as Metallica‘s M72 World Tour rolled into town for a massive, immersive show. Armed with a two-night, no-repeat setlist format, Metallica proved once again why they remain titans of the genre, delivering a spectacle that fused nostalgia, raw power, and moments of genuine heart.

Before Metallica even took the stage, fans were treated to an explosive double-bill of opening acts that laid the groundwork for the chaos to come. First up were Suicidal Tendencies who stormed the stage with all the reckless energy they’re known for.

Though their set was shorter than fans might’ve liked, frontman Mike Muir didn’t waste a second, tearing through classics like “You Can’t Bring Me Down” with the kind of punk-infused fury that made them legends of the crossover thrash movement. Their frantic pace and defiant attitude kicked off the evening with a fierce jolt.

But it was Pantera’s return to the big stage that truly electrified the building. With original members Rex Brown and Philip Anselmo joined by Charlie Benante (Anthrax) on drums and Zakk Wylde filling the enormous shoes of Dimebag Darrell, the band delivered a crushing set that honored their legacy while proving they still have the fire.

Tracks like “Walk” and “Cowboys From Hell” hit with bone-rattling force, and Anselmo’s gritty vocals reminded fans of Pantera’s place in the metal pantheon. Their energy was off the charts, and the crowd responded in kind, with massive pits opening up across the floor. This wasn’t a nostalgia trip—it was a celebration of enduring rage and groove.

When Metallica finally took the stage on their massive, circular setup—surrounded by fans on all sides—they wasted no time getting down to business. The opening riff of “Creeping Death” sent shockwaves through the stadium, with thousands chanting in unison, a spine-tingling moment that set the tone for the night. They followed with the crushing “Harvester of Sorrow” and the gritty speed of “Holier Than Thou,” tapping deep into their early catalog to keep the old-school fans roaring.

The band took time to spotlight 72 Seasons, their latest release, weaving in tracks like the title track, “If Darkness Had a Son,” and “Shadows Follow.” While these songs were performed with conviction and sounded tight live, the crowd’s response was noticeably muted compared to the classics. Hetfield, ever the showman, seemed to sense this and tried to rally the fans, but the new material simply didn’t land with the same weight—at least not yet.

A deeply emotional moment arrived when they performed the instrumental “Orion,” dedicating it to the late bassist Cliff Burton. Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo gave the track a beautiful, haunting touch, letting the song breathe and serve as a quiet tribute amidst the chaos.

Later in the set, the mood lightened as the band broke out the massive beach balls during “Seek & Destroy,” a now-traditional M72 touch that turned the stadium into a playful warzone. Trujillo and Hammett shared a fun little “doodle” jam together between songs, showcasing their chemistry and giving the crowd a quick breather before launching into another barrage.

One of the evening’s most touching moments came when Hetfield introduced “Nothing Else Matters,” dedicating the song to a young Make-A-Wish recipient, Rebecca from Saskatoon. It was a heartfelt pause that reminded everyone of the deeper connection the band has fostered with its fans over decades.

As the show drew to a close, Metallica pulled out all the stops. “Fuel” exploded with actual flames, synchronized pyrotechnics lighting up the dome in time with every drum hit and riff. Then, with the iconic intro of “Master of Puppets” echoing across the venue, the night reached its blistering peak. The song that helped define a generation of metal fans was delivered with surgical precision and ferocious energy, the band sounding as vital as ever.

As the final notes rang out and the rest of the band exited, Hetfield lingered on stage, soaking in the moment, visibly moved by the sea of faces cheering him on. It was a powerful close to an unforgettable night.

With a show that balanced heart, history, and heavy metal ferocity, Metallica once again proved they’re not just still in the game—they’re still the gold standard.