Metallica

REVIEW - Download Festival 2003

By Luke Seagrave | Published: Wed 4th Jun 2003

Download Festival 2003

Saturday 31st May to Sunday 1st June 2003
Donington Park, Leics, England MAP
£39.50 to £90

Rumours had been circling about a surprise appearance by Metallica on the Scuzz Stage at Download throughout the week. The organisers then issued a statement claiming that Metallica were definitely NOT playing. This however was to be completely opposite to the truth.

For the fortunate few that made it into the Scuzz tent, they were treated to what can only be described as a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the mighty rock gods-Metallica playing on a small stage. Now to say that this was surreal is an understatement.

Metallica

Outside the Scuzz Stage people were queuing ten deep to get a glimpse of the titans of rock playing on a small stage. This was a pure and simple stage show, no huge stadium pyrotechnics or fancy lights, just four fantastic musicians and an audience.

Songs spanning throughout their career were belted out across the intimate audience. The golden oldies such as 'Blackened', 'Creeping Death', and 'Master of Puppets' which won the crowd over, but to be honest the crowd would have been happy if Metallica just stood there whistling the theme tune to the Clangers.

Metallica

They played 'Frantic' and 'St Anger' taken from their forthcoming album 'St Anger'. These new tracks went down extremely well with the crowd.

Metallica might have only played for just over one hour, but in that time they showed Donington why they are the kings of rock!! Judging by this performance, their appearances at Reading and Leeds festivals are going to be awesome.
review by: Luke Seagrave

photos by: Phil Bull


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