In a thunderous celebration of metal and mayhem, Metallica delivered a powerhouse performance at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver on June 27, 2025, as part of their ongoing M72 World Tour. Joined by nu-metal veterans Limp Bizkit and horror-metal act Ice Nine Kills, the night served as a cross-generational tribute to hard rock’s evolution and enduring power.
The stadium was packed to capacity, with more than 70,000 fans turning out to witness one of rock’s most iconic bands in their element. From the opening chords of “Creeping Death” to the blistering closer “Master of Puppets,” Metallica proved they remain at the top of their game—even after four decades of dominance.
The show’s visual production was nothing short of cinematic. Featuring a massive circular stage setup, pyrotechnics, synchronized drone displays, and larger-than-life LED panels, the concert was as much a visual experience as an auditory one. The band’s signature dual-night format allowed for two completely different setlists over the weekend, ensuring no two experiences were alike.
A standout moment came when James Hetfield addressed the Denver crowd between songs, sharing a heartfelt message of gratitude. “We’ve been doing this a long time,” Hetfield said, “but nights like this… with fans like you… this is why we keep coming back.” His sincerity resonated across the stadium, reinforcing Metallica’s deep connection with their global fanbase.
Opening act Limp Bizkit set the tone for the evening with a high-energy performance that bridged metal, rap, and nostalgia. Guitarist Wes Borland paid tribute to Hetfield by performing in a skull-painted outfit reminiscent of Metallica’s 1980s era, complete with a “Metal Up Your Ass” T-shirt. Their set included fan favorites like “Break Stuff” and “My Way,” igniting early crowd engagement.
Ice Nine Kills, known for their theatrical horror-inspired performances, also made a strong impression with a set full of cinematic references, fake blood, and heavy breakdowns. Their inclusion showcased Metallica’s commitment to highlighting a diverse range of rock and metal subgenres in their tour lineups.
Critics have widely praised the Denver show for its scale, precision, and intensity. Local outlet Westword called it “a masterclass in stadium rock,” highlighting Metallica’s ability to keep their performances fresh, immersive, and emotionally impactful. The seamless coordination between sound, lighting, and crowd interaction added layers to what many considered one of the summer’s most anticipated concerts.
As the M72 World Tour continues across North America and Europe, Metallica shows no signs of slowing down. Their Denver performance not only reaffirmed their legendary status but also demonstrated their unique ability to unite generations of fans through an ever-evolving, yet consistently powerful, live experience.
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