The Thing That Should Not Be - een epische metal hymne die de grenzen van melodie en agressie verlegt
“The Thing That Should Not Be” is a legendary piece of music by the American heavy metal band Metallica, released in 1986 as part of their monumental third studio album “Master of Puppets”. This track stands out as a testament to Metallica’s ability to weave together complex musical structures with haunting lyrical themes.
The song’s title itself is a direct reference to H.P Lovecraft’s horror fiction, specifically the monstrous entity Cthulhu from his novella “The Call of Cthulhu”. Lovecraft’s cosmic horror heavily influenced Metallica’s songwriting during this era, injecting their music with a sense of dread and existential unease.
Musically, “The Thing That Should Not Be” is a masterpiece of heavy metal composition. It begins with a slow, ominous intro featuring James Hetfield’s clean vocals layered over acoustic guitar melodies. This deceptive tranquility abruptly transitions into a furious assault of distorted guitars and double bass drumming. Lars Ulrich’s relentless drumming drives the song forward with unmatched intensity, while Kirk Hammett unleashes blistering solos that are both technically proficient and emotionally charged.
The interplay between Hetfield’s aggressive vocals and the band’s ferocious instrumentation creates a truly visceral listening experience. The lyrics, drawing inspiration from Lovecraft’s work, paint a vivid picture of cosmic horror and human insignificance in the face of ancient, unimaginable powers:
“From the depths we rise A chilling voice, unseen eyes”
Hetfield’s vocal delivery oscillates between guttural growls and soaring melodic passages, reflecting the song’s dynamic shifts. The chorus explodes with a powerful melody that sticks in your mind long after the song has ended.
“The Thing That Should Not Be” is not just a heavy metal song; it’s an experience. It pulls you into its world of darkness and dread, leaving you breathless and wanting more. Metallica masterfully blends elements of thrash, speed, and doom metal to create a sound that is both brutal and captivating.
Analyzing the Musical Structure
To fully appreciate “The Thing That Should Not Be,” it’s crucial to delve into its intricate musical structure:
| Section | Description | Time Signature |
|---|---|---|
| Intro | Acoustic guitar melody with clean vocals | 4/4 |
| Verse 1 | Distorted guitars, double bass drumming, aggressive vocals | 4/4 |
| Chorus | Powerful melodic line, soaring vocals | 4/4 |
| Verse 2 | Similar to verse 1 but with a different lyrical theme | 4/4 |
| Bridge | Tempo slows down, guitar solo by Kirk Hammett | 6/8 |
| Solo Section | Extended instrumental break featuring complex riffs and solos | 4/4 |
| Chorus | Repeat of the chorus melody with increased intensity | 4/4 |
| Outro | Fades out gradually with distorted guitars and cymbal crashes | 4/4 |
The song’s dynamic shifts are expertly executed, seamlessly transitioning between quieter moments of introspection and explosive bursts of aggression.
Metallica in the Mid-80s
“Master of Puppets,” the album containing “The Thing That Should Not Be,” marked a turning point in Metallica’s career. Released in 1986, it solidified their position as one of the leading forces in the thrash metal scene. The album’s raw power and technical prowess influenced countless bands that followed.
At this stage in their career, Metallica was known for its relentless touring schedule, performing to ever-growing crowds. Their live performances were legendary for their intensity and energy.
The music video for “The Thing That Should Not Be,” directed by Michael Salomon, further enhanced the song’s impact. The video captured Metallica’s raw power on stage while incorporating haunting imagery inspired by Lovecraft’s fiction.
Legacy and Influence
“The Thing That Should Not Be” remains one of Metallica’s most beloved and critically acclaimed songs. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films and television shows.
The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal. It continues to inspire generations of metal fans with its combination of technical brilliance, emotional depth, and Lovecraftian horror.
Beyond its immediate impact, “The Thing That Should Not Be” solidified Metallica’s place as pioneers of heavy metal. They pushed the boundaries of the genre, incorporating complex musical structures and lyrical themes that resonated with a wide audience.
For any music lover interested in exploring the heavier side of music, “The Thing That Should Not Be” is an essential listen. It’s a powerful and unforgettable experience that showcases Metallica at their creative peak.