The Thing That Should Not Be by Metallica Blends Melodic Riffs with Unflinching Brutality

Metallica, the behemoths of thrash metal, are renowned for their blistering tempos, ferocious vocals, and intricate song structures. “The Thing That Should Not Be,” a track from their 1986 masterpiece Master of Puppets, stands as a testament to their musical prowess, seamlessly blending melodic riffs with unflinching brutality. The piece transcends the typical boundaries of thrash metal, delving into a chilling narrative inspired by H.P. Lovecraft’s cosmic horror fiction.

“The Thing That Should Not Be” begins with an unsettling acoustic intro, setting the stage for the horrors to come. James Hetfield’s haunting vocal delivery, layered with eerie harmonies, paints a vivid picture of an ancient, slumbering entity awakened from its eternal slumber. As the drums kick in, driven by Lars Ulrich’s thunderous fills and Kirk Hammett unleashes a cascade of ferocious riffs, the song explodes into a relentless maelstrom of sonic fury.

The track is built around a series of interconnected musical themes that evolve throughout its duration. The main riff, characterized by its distinctive chromatic descending pattern, is both memorable and unsettling. It embodies the Lovecraftian theme of a monstrous entity slowly revealing itself, leaving listeners on the edge of their seats. Hammett’s lead guitar work further intensifies the atmosphere of dread, weaving through the rhythm section with chilling melodies and piercing solos.

“The Thing That Should Not Be” is not merely a sonic onslaught but a carefully crafted musical journey that explores themes of cosmic horror and existential dread. Hetfield’s lyrics delve into Lovecraft’s mythology, referencing creatures like Cthulhu and the ancient evils that lie dormant beneath the surface of reality. The song’s haunting melody and relentless tempo create a sense of unease and claustrophobia, mirroring the psychological torment experienced by those who encounter these cosmic horrors.

Lyrically, “The Thing That Should Not Be” delves into Lovecraft’s chilling mythology:

From the depths of icy slumber,

Awakens what should never be.

A shadow stirs in ancient darkness,

And whispers on the cosmic breeze.

The lyrics paint a picture of an ancient, powerful entity emerging from its slumber and wreaking havoc upon humanity. The song’s structure mirrors this narrative arc, starting with an unsettling quietude before erupting into a ferocious storm of sound.

Musically, the piece showcases Metallica’s mastery of contrasting elements:

The interplay between these elements creates a dynamic listening experience that keeps the listener on edge.

“The Thing That Should Not Be” solidified Metallica’s position as pioneers of thrash metal, pushing the boundaries of the genre with its complex arrangements and thematic depth. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to connect with listeners on both an intellectual and visceral level. It’s a reminder that even in the face of cosmic horror, there can be beauty, power, and ultimately, catharsis.

Beyond its musical merits, “The Thing That Should Not Be” offers a window into the mind of H.P Lovecraft, exploring his fascination with the unknown and the terrifying potential of humanity’s insignificance in the face of ancient cosmic powers. It encourages listeners to grapple with existential questions about our place in the universe and the limits of human understanding.

In conclusion, “The Thing That Should Not Be” is not just a metal song; it’s an experience. A musical odyssey that transcends genre boundaries and delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche. It’s a testament to Metallica’s creative brilliance and their ability to craft music that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant.