Metallica - S&M (3LP)

**Album Review: Metallica With Michael Kamen Conducting The San Francisco Symphony Orchestra - S&M**

Released on November 23, 1999, "S&M" is a live album by the iconic heavy metal band Metallica, in collaboration with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra, conducted by the renowned Michael Kamen. This ambitious project merges the raw power of metal with the grandeur of a symphony orchestra, creating a unique and compelling listening experience.

**Concept and Execution**

The concept of "S&M" (short for Symphony & Metallica) was to blend Metallica's aggressive sound with the lush, expansive arrangements of a full orchestra. Michael Kamen, who had previously worked with Metallica on the song "Nothing Else Matters," was instrumental in bringing this vision to life. The performances were recorded over two nights, April 21 and 22, 1999, at the Berkeley Community Theatre in California.

**Track Selection and Arrangement**

"S&M" features a selection of Metallica's most popular songs, reimagined with orchestral arrangements. The album includes classics like "Enter Sandman," "Master of Puppets," and "One," as well as two new compositions, "No Leaf Clover" and "−Human," which were written specifically for this collaboration. The orchestral arrangements add a new dimension to these tracks, enhancing their emotional depth and complexity.

The album opens with "The Ecstasy of Gold," a piece by Ennio Morricone, which Metallica has used as an intro for their live shows. This sets the stage for the fusion of metal and classical music that follows. The symphonic elements complement the band's sound, with strings, brass, and woodwinds weaving seamlessly into the fabric of Metallica's music.

**Performance and Production**

The performances on "S&M" are a testament to the versatility and musicianship of both Metallica and the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra. James Hetfield's vocals are powerful and emotive, while Kirk Hammett's guitar solos soar with added orchestral backing. Lars Ulrich's drumming is as thunderous as ever, and Jason Newsted's bass lines provide a solid foundation for the intricate arrangements.

Michael Kamen's conducting is masterful, guiding the orchestra through complex arrangements that enhance the intensity and drama of Metallica's music. The production quality is excellent, capturing the energy and dynamics of the live performances.

**Highlights and Reception**

One of the standout tracks on the album is "No Leaf Clover," which became a hit and showcases the successful integration of orchestral elements with Metallica's sound. The song's introspective lyrics and haunting melody are elevated by the symphonic arrangement, making it a memorable addition to Metallica's catalog.

"One" is another highlight, with the orchestra adding layers of tension and emotion to the song's narrative of a soldier's despair. The interplay between the band and the orchestra is particularly effective in this track, creating a powerful and immersive experience.

"S&M" received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised the innovative concept and execution. The album was a commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard 200 chart and earning a Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance for the track "The Call of Ktulu."

**Conclusion**

"S&M" is a bold and successful experiment that showcases Metallica's willingness to push the boundaries of their music. The collaboration with Michael Kamen and the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra results in a rich and dynamic sound that highlights the strengths of both the band and the orchestra. For fans of Metallica and those who appreciate the fusion of different musical genres, "S&M" is a must-listen album that stands as a testament to the power of musical collaboration.