Kirk Hammett's Solo Album Announcement

In an electrifying revelation, Metallica's legendary guitarist, Kirk Hammett, is gearing up for his debut full-length solo album. Unlike his previously released solo EP, *Portals,* this new venture promises to be a star-studded affair, with Hammett hinting at collaborations with guest vocalists. Speaking on the latest episode of the *Rolling Stone Music Now* podcast, he shared his excitement and insights into his creative journey.

New Metallica Riffs Await

Hammett is not just focused on his solo project; he has an impressive arsenal of newly crafted riffs for the next Metallica album—an astounding 767 riffs, to be exact! The guitarist anticipates that the band will dive into the new material within the next year, right after they conclude their ongoing *72 Seasons* tour, during which they will explore new regions like Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

Kirk Hammett's Guitar Collection

Alongside his musical projects, Hammett has released a captivating book titled *The Collection: Kirk Hammett,* showcasing his remarkable collection of vintage guitars. During the podcast interview, he candidly discussed his extensive collection, revealing that he stopped counting after reaching a significant number, as it became overwhelming. He focuses on maintaining a core group of 40 to 50 favorite instruments that he plays regularly, many of which are featured in his new book.

Songwriting Process for Solo Album

Reflecting on his songwriting process for the upcoming solo album, Hammett expressed a desire to experiment with various musical styles. "It’s going to be a fusion of all sorts of styles," he described, detailing his inspirations that range from classical progressions to funk-inspired grooves. He aims to incorporate vocals into his new tracks, emphasizing that the material demands them.

Nostalgia for Metallica's '90s Sound

Hammett also reminisced about the nostalgia of revisiting Metallica’s '90s sound. "Who knows? We might just decide to explore that era again," he noted, acknowledging how their albums *Load* and *Reload* garnered both criticism and eventual appreciation over time. His unique relationship with music and memory allows him to draw parallels between his experiences as a teenager discovering Led Zeppelin and the evolving perception of Metallica's catalog.

Memories and Collaborations

Moreover, Hammett shared fond memories of hanging out with the late iconic singer Marianne Faithfull, drawing on the vibrant stories from those unforgettable nights. Additionally, Hammett spoke candidly about working with the revered Lou Reed on the project *Lulu,* a collaboration that left an indelible mark on him, highlighting the deep emotional connection he formed through this creative partnership.

Kirk Hammett's Dedication to Fitness

Despite reaching 62, Hammett feels invigorated and driven, emphasizing that, unlike many artists of his age, he feels like he's still on the ascent. "I haven’t reached the top of the mountain yet," he declared, underscoring his dedication to fitness and creativity. Whether surfing, biking, or practicing yoga, Hammett is determined to maintain his health, which he believes is crucial for the band's longevity.

Thoughts on Modern Guitar Techniques

In an era where guitar techniques are constantly evolving, Hammett weighed in on modern guitarists like Polyphia's Tim Henson, who recently labeled traditional lead-guitar techniques as "boomer bends." While appreciating Henson's style, Hammett highlighted the age-old conversation about the relatability of intricate music versus raw emotional expression.

Conclusion and Future Projects

As fans eagerly anticipate both Hammett's solo album and new Metallica material, it’s clear the rock icon is far from finished with his illustrious career. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exhilarating new chapter in Kirk Hammett's musical journey!