Metallica

In July 1997, when Metallica took the stage in Austin for their "Cunning Stunts" live recording, they were riding high off the waves generated by their self-titled album, commonly known as "The Black Album," which had been released in 1991. This groundbreaking album not only catapulted them into mainstream success but also brought hits like “Enter Sandman” and “The Unforgiven” to rock radio. By the time of this performance, the band had shifted their sound toward a more melodic and accessible style, something that sparked both admiration and debate among their original fans. Interestingly, "One," the track performed at this live show, marked a pivotal moment in their catalog, showcasing their evolution from thrash metal roots into more complex, introspective songwriting. So, it’s no surprise that even as they rocked the stage with powerful riffs and intense lyrics, they were also grappling with their identity in the metal landscape—an intriguing duality that defined this era of their career.

Watch on YouTube