On August 23, 1995, Metallica rocked the Astoria 2 in London, England, delivering an electrifying performance that left a lasting impression on the lucky fans who managed to get tickets to this intimate venue. This concert was part of their “Load” tour, which was in support of their then-recent album Load, marking a significant shift in their musical style from thrash metal to a more hard rock-oriented sound.

SETLIST AND SHOW HIGHLIGHTS:

The concert kicked off with a punchy rendition of “So What!,” a cover originally by the anti-establishment punk band Anti-Nowhere League, featured on Metallica’s Garage Inc. album. This choice set the stage for a high-energy show, reflecting the band’s punk influences and willingness to embrace diverse styles.

“Creeping Death” followed, a staple in Metallica’s live set known for its relentless pace and iconic chorus. The song’s powerful riffing and the crowd’s enthusiastic participation created an intense atmosphere, highlighting the band’s ability to engage the audience in a smaller, more intimate setting.

“King Nothing” from the Load album was next, showcasing Metallica’s evolving sound with its groove-heavy riffs and biting lyrics. The track, with its strong chorus and rhythmic drive, resonated well with the audience and showcased the band’s successful transition into their new musical era.

The show continued with “The Unforgiven,” a melodically complex song that provided a dramatic contrast to the high-energy tracks surrounding it. The song’s emotional depth and haunting melody were enhanced by the venue’s close quarters, allowing fans to experience its full impact.

One of the standout performances of the night was “Until It Sleeps,” a track from Load that addressed themes of inner turmoil and personal struggle. The band’s emotive delivery and the song’s heavy, brooding riffs created a powerful atmosphere, amplifying the song’s impact in the intimate setting of the Astoria 2.

Metallica also played “Wherever I May Roam,” a classic from their Black Album that continues to be a fan favorite. The track’s narrative about life on the road resonated deeply with the audience, adding to the overall connection between the band and their fans.

ENCORE HIGHLIGHTS:

For the encore, Metallica delivered a rousing performance of “Battery,” a thrash classic that had the crowd headbanging and moshing with renewed vigor. The energy in the room was palpable as the song’s fast pace and aggressive riffs drove the audience wild.

The band concluded the show with “Whiplash,” a high-octane track from their early days that perfectly captured the raw intensity of their early thrash sound. The song’s speed and ferocity provided a fitting end to the night, celebrating Metallica’s roots while showcasing their dynamic range.

The concert at Astoria 2 in London on August 23, 1995, was a memorable event for those who had the chance to attend. The intimate venue allowed for a unique connection between Metallica and their audience, providing a raw and electrifying experience that contrasted with the grandeur of their larger arena shows.

The setlist was a well-curated mix of new material from Load and classic tracks from their earlier albums, demonstrating Metallica’s ability to evolve their sound while still honoring their thrash metal roots. The performance highlighted the band’s versatility and their skill at engaging with fans in any setting, solidifying their status as one of the greatest rock bands of their era.