METALLICA Bassist 'Explored The Art Of Simplicity' On 'Hardwired… To Self-Destruct'

December 13, 2016

Sam Dunn of Banger TV conducted an interview with METALLICA bassist Sam Dunn before the band's November 29 concert in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. You can now watch the chat below.

Asked for his opinion on the role of the bass in heavy metal music, Trujillo said: "That's a great question. On this particular album [METALLICA's 'Hardwired… To Self-Destruct'], what we explored — and when I say 'we,' I really [mean] Greg Fidelman, our producer, and myself is we explored the art of simplicity. Instead of doubling the guitar note for note, we went for a more simplistic approach and finding a rhythm that could find its balance within the riff. And, of course, there's certain moments where you're gonna double up, but then there's also certain pulses that you can do to complement the rhythm guitar. And you find that balance the kick drum and James's [Hetfield, guitar/vocals] rhythm part, and we played around with that a lot."

He continued: "I always try to think about my role as a bass player in hard rock [and] heavy metal music is like a heavy bag — having you feel the instrument. And that's why I've always loved BLACK SABBATH's music, 'cause you hear it and you feel it, and it's got a certain presence and a personality in the music, and I tried to establish some of that with this new record."

As previously reported, METALLICA will be the featured musical guest on this Wednesday's (December 14) edition of ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" As with most of Kimmel's musical guests, the band will perform a mini-concert on the show's outdoor stage on Hollywood Boulevard, with the street likely to be closed for several blocks in either direction to accommodate thousands of fans. A portion of the performance will be aired on that night's show, which starts at 11:35 p.m.

METALLICA will also play a special intimate show this Thursday (December 15) at the Fonda Theater in Hollywood, California. All proceeds from the sale of tickets to this show will be donated to Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. Fans are also encouraged to bring canned foods and non-perishable items to the show for donation as well.

"Hardwired...To Self-Destruct" debuted at No. 1 on The Billboard 200 album chart last month. An extensive world tour is in the works for 2017.

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