“Blackened” by Metallica

Metallica’s “Blackened” is a masterclass in aggressive thrash metal riffing and intricate rhythmic complexity. As the opening track on their …And Justice for All album, it’s one of the band’s most technically challenging songs—and an absolute essential for any guitarist looking to sharpen their metal playing. Our note-for-note guitar lesson at Licklibrary.com takes you through every section of “Blackened” in precise detail, allowing you to understand and play every riff, rhythm, and solo exactly as recorded by Metallica’s guitar titans.

Whether you're an intermediate or advanced player, this lesson will significantly level up your picking speed, timing accuracy, and technical versatility. Below, we’ll dive into the techniques taught in the lesson, their benefits, and the legacy of the guitarists behind the track. Sam Bell breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarists Behind “Blackened”

“Blackened” showcases the combined genius of James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett.

James Hetfield is widely recognised as one of metal’s tightest rhythm players. His aggressive downpicking, intricate riff construction, and relentless timing are front and centre throughout this track. Hetfield’s rhythm work on “Blackened” is a study in control and power, setting the foundation for Metallica’s signature sound.

Kirk Hammett delivers fluid, fiery lead guitar work that balances technicality with expression. His solos in “Blackened” blend speed with melodic phrasing and use a wide range of techniques that make them a great learning resource for any aspiring lead guitarist. Hammett’s style fuses classic metal shred with bluesy phrasing, and in this track, it’s all elevated by the dark, complex vibe of the composition.

Key Techniques Covered in the “Blackened” Guitar Lesson

Alternate Picking

Throughout the main riffs and solos, alternate picking is essential for achieving the speed and tightness that define the song’s intensity. Mastering this technique builds both right-hand endurance and timing precision, helping players handle fast-paced, rhythmically demanding sections with confidence.

Palm Muting

The chugging rhythms and galloping patterns of “Blackened” rely heavily on palm muting, giving the riffs their heavy, percussive quality. Learning to palm mute effectively enhances control and adds articulation to your rhythm playing, especially in high-gain contexts.

Tremolo Picking

One of the intro riffs is built around rapid tremolo picking, requiring precise synchronisation between both hands. This technique is ideal for developing stamina and accuracy, especially when playing high-speed melodic lines.

Power Chords

Power chords are at the core of Metallica’s riff writing. The lesson breaks down how power chords are used dynamically to shift energy and create aggressive tonal foundations. Learning to use them effectively sharpens your rhythm vocabulary and helps you write heavier riffs.

Galloping Rhythms

A hallmark of Metallica’s sound, galloping rhythms appear in several riffs throughout “Blackened.” These rhythms challenge your picking control and right-hand endurance, but once mastered, they add a signature metal drive to your playing.

Two-Handed Tapping

Kirk Hammett’s solo work in “Blackened” makes use of two-handed tapping, adding speed and flair to melodic runs. Learning this technique improves finger independence and opens up new possibilities for expressive soloing.

Slides

Slides are used to connect notes fluidly throughout the intro and verses, adding movement and feel. Slides are valuable for transitioning smoothly between positions and enhancing melodic phrasing.

Hammer-ons and Pull-offs

The lead sections feature hammer-ons and pull-offs for legato phrasing, allowing for smooth note transitions without re-picking. These techniques improve left-hand strength, fluidity, and are essential for creating seamless runs.

String Bending

The solo also includes expressive string bending, bringing vocal-like dynamics to Kirk Hammett’s phrases. Learning to bend accurately improves your intonation and expressive control.

Why Learn “Blackened”?

Learning “Blackened” offers a full-spectrum workout for metal guitarists. You’ll develop:

• Speed and stamina through intense alternate and tremolo picking.
• Rhythmic precision with complex, syncopated riffs and galloping patterns.
• Lead technique with tapping, bending, and legato phrasing.
• Metal tone and articulation through palm muting and power chord control.

This is not just a song—it’s a technical deep-dive into the DNA of thrash metal guitar playing. If you’re serious about mastering the style, learning “Blackened” will be a milestone in your development.

Guitar Techniques Used in “Blackened”

• Alternate Picking
• Palm Muting
• Tremolo Picking
• Power Chords
• Galloping Rhythms
• Two-Handed Tapping
• Slides
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• String Bending

Take your guitar skills to the next level by learning every note of Metallica’s “Blackened” with our expertly crafted lesson. Whether you're after tight rhythm chops or searing lead runs, this track has it all—and our tutorial ensures you don’t miss a single detail. Dive in and play it like Hetfield and Hammett themselves.