The Thing That Should Not Be - A Symphony of Darkness and Primal Fear Unleashed

Deep within the maelstrom of heavy metal lies a track so unsettling, so profoundly evocative, that it transcends the boundaries of mere music and delves into the realm of visceral experience. This auditory odyssey is none other than “The Thing That Should Not Be” by Metallica, a testament to the band’s mastery of crafting sonic landscapes brimming with darkness and primal fear.

Released in 1986 as part of their iconic third studio album, Master of Puppets, “The Thing That Should Not Be” stands as a cornerstone of thrash metal. The track explodes into existence with a menacing riff, a musical embodiment of lurking dread that claws its way through the listener’s consciousness. Kirk Hammett’s guitar solos shriek and wail like tormented souls, while James Hetfield’s guttural vocals paint a vivid picture of cosmic horror.

Lyrically, “The Thing That Should Not Be” draws inspiration from the works of H.P. Lovecraft, the master of cosmic horror who terrified generations with his tales of unknowable entities beyond human comprehension. The song alludes to the ancient, slumbering deity Cthulhu, a being of unimaginable power whose awakening would herald the end of civilization.

The lyrics are laced with unsettling imagery: “In the shadows it lies / Waiting for its time,” they declare, capturing the sense of an insidious force lurking just beyond our perception. The chorus explodes with raw power: “The thing that should not be! The thing that should not be!” This repeated refrain becomes a mantra, a desperate cry against the inevitable terror that awaits.

“The Thing That Should Not Be” showcases Metallica’s technical prowess at its peak. Lars Ulrich’s drumming is a relentless barrage of double bass kicks and intricate fills, driving the song forward with unrelenting intensity. Cliff Burton’s bass lines provide a melodic counterpoint to the chaos, weaving intricate patterns that add depth and complexity to the sonic tapestry.

The track builds towards a climactic breakdown, a whirlwind of shredding guitar solos and pounding drums. Hetfield’s vocals reach a fever pitch as he screams, “No light can touch it / No mind can hold,” highlighting the incomprehensible nature of the entity they describe. The song concludes with a final, chilling riff that fades into silence, leaving the listener in a state of profound unease.

A Glimpse into the Minds Behind the Music

Understanding “The Thing That Should Not Be” requires delving into the minds of its creators: Metallica’s core members during their Master of Puppets era.

James Hetfield, the band’s vocalist and rhythm guitarist, is known for his raw, powerful vocals and deeply personal lyrics. He channeled his own struggles with addiction and inner turmoil into Metallica’s music, imbuing it with a sense of vulnerability and authenticity rarely seen in heavy metal.

Lars Ulrich, the drummer, is considered one of the pioneers of thrash metal drumming. His aggressive style, characterized by relentless double bass kicks and intricate fills, helped define the sound of the genre.

Kirk Hammett, the lead guitarist, joined Metallica shortly before recording Master of Puppets. His distinctive solos, blending technical proficiency with a bluesy sensibility, added a new dimension to the band’s sound.

Sadly, Cliff Burton, the bassist, died in a tragic bus accident in 1986, just months after the release of Master of Puppets. His virtuosic playing and innovative approach to bass lines left an indelible mark on Metallica’s music.

These four musicians, each a master of their craft, came together to create a musical masterpiece that continues to resonate with fans decades later. “The Thing That Should Not Be” is a testament to their shared vision, a darkly compelling exploration of the human psyche and the fear of the unknown.

The Enduring Legacy of “The Thing That Should Not Be”

“The Thing That Should Not Be” remains one of Metallica’s most popular and critically acclaimed songs. It has been covered by numerous bands, appeared in video games and movies, and continues to be a staple of the band’s live performances. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to tap into primal fears and create a sense of unease that is both exhilarating and terrifying.

“The Thing That Should Not Be” is more than just a heavy metal song; it is a cultural touchstone, a piece of music that has transcended genre boundaries and become embedded in popular consciousness. It serves as a reminder of the power of music to evoke powerful emotions and explore the darkest corners of the human imagination.

For those seeking an auditory experience that will challenge their senses and leave a lasting impression, “The Thing That Should Not Be” is an essential listen. Prepare yourself for a journey into darkness, a sonic exploration of primal fear and cosmic horror.