Godsmack played the role of backup band to Metallica, a role they probably haven’t played in quite some time. And while Godsmack put on an incredible show including a drum war between Sully and Shannon Larkin while both were playing separate spinning drum sets, Metallica definitely stole the show and lived up to Sully’s words as they proved why they were the headliner.

Complete with explosions, laser lights and pyrotechnics, Metallica pleased the crowd and made sure everyone walked away from the Alliant Energy Center feeling as though they gotten their money’s worth.

 The elaborate stage was set up in the middle of the venue and looked more like something you’d see at a super bowl half time show. There was a disk that basically spun the entire stage one full rotation during the 2 hour and 20 minute show. The show did not end until Lars Ullrich, the drummer, was back in the place he started. There were two microphones stands on each of the four sides of the stage, which enabled James Hetfield and the rest of the band to play to any side they chose for the entire show. Along with this were two big screens on each of the four sides so the crowd could see the entire band at any given time, regardless of which side of the stage they were playing on.

Metallica played a greater variety of songs than they have in years, drawing from 20 years and 10 albums of rock classics. St. Anger and Frantic were the only songs they played from their latest release, St. Anger. The classic Enter The Sandman was the highlight of the show for me. At one point Lars had kicked over one of his drums and was standing on it while playing the remaining upright drums.

This was the first concert for my nephew Derek Mozdzierz and while I take comfort in knowing that his first show was one to remember, I fear this may have set the bar too high for his future concert experiences. I’ve seen hundreds of concerts and this one is definitely at the top of my list of favorites.

Metallica truly are the walking Gods of metal.