The Thing That Should Not Be; A Harrowing Symphony of Unholy Riffs and Monstrous Growls

“The Thing That Should Not Be” by Metallica stands as a testament to the band’s ability to conjure sonic landscapes brimming with both technical prowess and raw, primal energy. Released in 1986 on their landmark album Master of Puppets, this eight-minute epic dives deep into the unsettling depths of H.P. Lovecraft’s cosmic horror, mirroring the dread and awe evoked by the author’s eldritch creations.

Metallica, already riding high on the success of Kill ‘Em All and Ride the Lightning, solidified their place as thrash metal titans with Master of Puppets. This album saw them pushing boundaries, exploring complex song structures, introspective lyrics, and a refined musicality that elevated them above their peers. “The Thing That Should Not Be” exemplifies this evolution, showcasing Metallica’s mastery over rhythm, melody, and atmosphere.

A Descent into the Abyss

The song opens with an unsettling acoustic guitar motif, hinting at the lurking menace to come. This deceptively tranquil introduction soon gives way to a ferocious onslaught of double bass drumming and tremolo-picked guitars, setting the stage for a relentless sonic assault. James Hetfield’s vocals alternate between raspy growls and haunting melodic passages, perfectly capturing the chilling dread evoked by Lovecraft’s monstrous entities.

The lyrics, inspired directly by Lovecraft’s short story “The Call of Cthulhu,” delve into the ancient, unfathomable horrors that lie beyond human comprehension. Phrases like “Across the void I see a face / A thing with eyes that burn and blaze” paint a vivid picture of the terrifying entity lurking in the abyss.

A Technical Masterpiece

Beyond its thematic brilliance, “The Thing That Should Not Be” showcases Metallica’s technical virtuosity. Kirk Hammett’s guitar solos are blistering and melodic, weaving intricate melodies into the song’s chaotic structure. Lars Ulrich’s drumming is relentless, providing a driving force that propels the song forward with unrelenting intensity. Cliff Burton’s bass lines are complex and inventive, adding depth and texture to the overall sonic landscape.

The song’s structure itself is a testament to Metallica’s compositional skill. It seamlessly blends moments of bone-crushing heaviness with melodic interludes and atmospheric sections, creating a dynamic listening experience that keeps the listener on edge.

A Lasting Legacy

“The Thing That Should Not Be” remains a fan favorite and a staple of Metallica’s live performances. Its enduring popularity speaks to the song’s ability to transcend mere musical entertainment and tap into something deeper – perhaps our primal fear of the unknown, or the allure of the cosmic and forbidden.

The influence of “The Thing That Should Not Be” can be heard in countless heavy metal bands that followed in Metallica’s footsteps. Its blend of technical prowess, thematic depth, and raw intensity set a new standard for extreme metal music, paving the way for generations of musicians to explore the darker corners of human imagination through sound.

Understanding the Origins: A Glimpse into Metallica’s History

To fully appreciate “The Thing That Should Not Be,” one must delve into the history of Metallica itself.

Founded in Los Angeles in 1981 by guitarist James Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich, Metallica quickly gained notoriety for their ferocious live performances and uncompromising musical vision. Their early albums, Kill ‘Em All (1983) and Ride the Lightning (1984), established them as pioneers of thrash metal – a subgenre characterized by its aggressive tempos, complex song structures, and politically charged lyrics.

The arrival of bassist Cliff Burton in 1982 proved to be a pivotal moment for the band. Burton’s exceptional technical abilities and progressive songwriting sensibilities pushed Metallica towards new heights of musical sophistication.

Master of Puppets, released in 1986, marked a significant turning point in Metallica’s career. The album showcased a newfound maturity and depth, with complex arrangements, haunting melodies, and introspective lyrics exploring themes of war, addiction, and societal disillusionment.

The Impact on Heavy Metal: A Genre Revolutionized

Master of Puppets, with “The Thing That Should Not Be” as one of its standout tracks, revolutionized the heavy metal landscape. It elevated the genre beyond simple aggression, proving that heavy music could also be intellectually stimulating and emotionally evocative.

The album’s success paved the way for Metallica’s meteoric rise to fame, solidifying their place as one of the most influential bands in music history.

A Final Thought: Beyond the Music

“The Thing That Should Not Be” stands not only as a powerful musical experience but also as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and human imagination. By drawing upon the dark mythology of H.P. Lovecraft, Metallica created a song that resonates on both a visceral and intellectual level. It serves as a reminder that music can transport us beyond the mundane, allowing us to confront our deepest fears and explore the vast unknown.

And perhaps, just perhaps, it reminds us that some things are best left undisturbed in the abyss…