They came. They saw. They absolutely conquered.
Metallica’s long-anticipated return to Denver was more than just a tour stop — it was a historic moment in metal music and a celebration of their unrivaled legacy. Wrapping up their No Repeat Weekend with a thunderous finale on Sunday, June 29, at Empower Field at Mile High, the band delivered a sonic assault that will be remembered as one of the most explosive performances in the city’s live music history.
Fresh off the momentum of Friday night’s show, the Sunday performance proved Metallica had no intention of coasting. If anything, they doubled down. Where some bands pace themselves at the end of a tour leg, Metallica charged forward with the ferocity of a band just getting started. Their setlist was a statement of intent — no filler, no fluff, just an unrelenting barrage of metal anthems that left more than 76,000 fans in awe.
The band kicked things off with a lethal trio: “Whiplash,” “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” and “Ride the Lightning.” Right from the opening notes, it was clear this wasn’t just another concert — it was a declaration. The iconic riffs, the thunderous drumming, and the raw vocals echoed throughout the stadium, sending a wave of energy across the sold-out crowd. Fans responded with roars, horns held high, and full-throttle enthusiasm.
“Metallica’s in a really good mood, so you guys better watch out,” frontman James Hetfield warned early in the set, a statement that turned out to be more of a promise than a joke.
The momentum continued with “The Memory Remains,” as the entire stadium chanted along to Marianne Faithfull’s haunting melody, followed by newer tracks like “Lux Æterna” and “Too Far Gone?” that showed Metallica hasn’t lost their creative edge even four decades into their career. The band’s ability to blend classic material with recent releases is a testament to their enduring power and relevance.
In a particularly memorable moment, while Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich stepped offstage for a short break (a move that also occurred during Friday’s performance), lead guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Robert Trujillo seized the spotlight. In an inspired and playful twist, the duo delivered a “Trapped Under Ice” interlude that transitioned into a metal-tinged version of John Denver’s “Rocky Mountain High.” The crowd erupted in a stadium-wide sing-along, uniting generations of fans in a surreal, uniquely Colorado tribute. It was unexpected, bold, and pure Metallica.
Every element of the night — from the 360-degree stage setup to the roaring pyro, jaw-dropping visuals, and pitch-perfect sound — reflected Metallica’s status not just as a band but as a full-on experience. Their No Repeat Weekend concept, with completely different setlists across two nights, ensured diehard fans got a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear deep cuts and timeless classics.
As the final riffs echoed into the Denver night and the lights dimmed on Empower Field, the band left fans with something far beyond nostalgia. Metallica reminded everyone exactly why they remain the kings of metal — not just because of what they’ve done, but because of what they’re still doing.
Simply put, Metallica’s Denver finale wasn’t just a concert. It was a masterclass.