Metallica have pulled off what is seemingly impossible. Keeping a secret from their legions of fans. They have unleashed a surprise single that nobody saw coming. “Screaming Suicide” has landed and is truly mind-blowing. The track is the second from their upcoming “72 Seasons” LP which is due to hit on 14 April. 

The first release, 'Lux Æterna,' stormed onto the scene November last year, and offered up a happy sounding Metallica. As lead vocalist and guitarist, James Hetfield, explained:

"'Lux Æterna' is an upbeat, kind of fast and joyous song, I would say — really indicative of New Wave Of British [Heavy] Metal stuff, so kind of a harkening-back-to-'80s kind of riff. It's just fun and makes me move. It was fun making the video, fun recording a song that comes out really easy, that was a real easy song to write and to perform, like I said, very much like the early '80s for us."

“Screaming Suicide” takes a very different tone. It openly speaks about a topic that is often considered off-limits in most forms of media. But Metallica want to shine a light on this, and not keep it hidden away. They want to empower people to speak up if they are thinking about suicide or self-harm. Because trying to keep this subject quiet, is a contributing factor to far too many people not seeking help and paying the ultimate price for their struggles.

As Metallica themselves state:

“‘Screaming Suicide’ addresses the taboo word of suicide. The intention is to communicate about the darkness we feel inside. It's ridiculous to think we should deny that we have these thoughts. At one point or another I believe most people have thought about it. To face it is to speak the unspoken. If it’s a human experience, we should be able to talk about it. You are not alone.”

The track itself is a punching powerhouse of energy. It starts simply, and then you feel that familiar build of escalation typical of Metallica’s style, that makes you instantly hungry for more. Hetfield’s deep vocals then come in and seize your attention. Metallica clearly have something to say here and you need to listen. 

I defy anyone to nod head bang along to this as you contemplate the message within. The drums and bass line guide you through the understated, yet perfect guitars, with the rousing lyrics over the top, rounding out this very worthy new track. Then comes Kirk’s solos which pepper through the second half of the song, giving the ears such a treat. Your pulse will quicken, your feet will tap, and you will be even more eager for “72 Seasons” to land.

Author: Harley Houghton

Harley Houghton is a writer and blogger, based in Melbourne, Australia. Her passions include music, especially metal, gaming and comics. Check out her blog www.harleysmadhouse.com and follow her on Twitter.