Brief
Metallica opens Las Vegas Sphere residency with 18‑song set and massive 3D visuals
The band’s first night featured an 18‑track set, elaborate 3D graphics and a statement from James Hetfield about the technology.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Metallica launched the first of 24 shows in their "Life Burns Faster" residency at the Las Vegas Sphere on Oct. 1, 2026, performing an 18‑song set that spanned from their 1983 debut to 2023’s 72 Seasons.
What happened
The four‑piece lineup opened with "Battery" and played tracks such as "Creeping Death," "Now That We’re Dead," and "The Call of Ktulu." The show featured a 160,000‑sq‑ft curved screen displaying towering tombstones, stained‑glass windows and a multidimensional Lovecraftian Cthulhu during the Ride the Lightning segment.
What was said
James Hetfield told the audience, "For modern technology and old guys playing loud music, I have to say this is pretty awesome," as reported by Pitchfork.
Key facts
- Metallica's residency at the Las Vegas Sphere began on Oct. 1, 2026. (pitchfork.com)
- The opening night featured an 18‑song set covering material from 1983 to 2023. (pitchfork.com)
- The show used massive 3D graphics, including a giant Cthulhu during "The Call of Ktulu." (pitchfork.com)
- James Hetfield praised the combination of modern technology and the band's performance. (pitchfork.com)
Sources
- [1] pitchfork.com — originally reported as “Watch Metallica Spawn a Monster for Their Sphere Residency Opener”
