Holier Than Thou – Metallica

Step into the world of heavy riffing and explosive energy with our note-for-note guitar lesson for “Holier Than Thou” by Metallica. This track, taken from their iconic 1991 self-titled album (commonly referred to as The Black Album), is a masterclass in precise metal rhythm playing, combining classic thrash elements with groove-laden power. At Licklibrary.com, we’ve broken down every section of this song to give you a comprehensive understanding of the techniques that define James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett’s legendary guitar work. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Guitarists

“Holier Than Thou” exemplifies Metallica's evolution in the early 90s, maintaining their aggressive edge while shifting toward more accessible song structures and massive-sounding production. The guitar work is built around tight, chunky riffs, rapid down-picking, and dynamic shifts that challenge even seasoned players.

James Hetfield, the band’s rhythm guitarist and frontman, is renowned for his machine-precise down-picking and muscular riff construction. His tone and attack are defining elements of Metallica’s sound. Kirk Hammett, Metallica’s lead guitarist, complements Hetfield with blazing solos, expressive bends, and a knack for melody rooted in pentatonic phrasing and fast alternate picking. Together, they form one of the most influential guitar duos in metal history, inspiring generations of players to master tight rhythm playing and melodic lead work.

What You’ll Learn in This Lesson

Palm Muting

“Holier Than Thou” is driven by tight palm-muted riffs that give the song its punchy, percussive character. In this lesson, you'll learn how to control the level of muting to create rhythmic contrast and aggression. Mastering palm muting improves your overall rhythm control and articulation—essential for metal and hard rock genres.

Learn more: Palm Muting

Power Chords

The song’s riff-heavy structure is built almost entirely from power chords, a staple of metal guitar playing. We guide you through the voicings and transitions that give the riffs their weight and drive. Practicing power chords enhances your left-hand strength and improves your fretting accuracy.

Learn more: Power Chords

Alternate Picking

Both the rhythm and lead parts incorporate alternate picking to maintain precision and speed during fast passages. Our lesson shows you how to develop consistent picking technique and timing, critical for executing fast riffs cleanly and efficiently.

Learn more: Alternate Picking

Slides

Kirk Hammett uses slides to connect notes and transition between fretboard positions fluidly during his lead phrases. This lesson breaks down his phrasing so you can incorporate more expressive, vocal-like qualities into your solos.

Learn more: Slides

String Bending

From subtle pitch inflections to aggressive bends, string bending is used in the solo sections to add drama and emotion. We'll guide you through proper bending technique and intonation to help you sound more expressive and in control.

Learn more: String Bending

Vibrato

Hammett’s solos are also filled with vibrato, adding tension and character to sustained notes. In this lesson, you'll learn how to develop a consistent, wide vibrato that enhances your melodic phrasing and gives your playing a signature feel.

Learn more: Vibrato

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

The lead section incorporates hammer-ons and pull-offs to create fluid, legato lines. You'll practice these techniques in context, helping you build finger independence and speed without relying solely on picking.

Learn more: Hammer-Ons

Learn more: Pull-Offs

Trills

In certain parts of the solo, Kirk uses trills for a rapid, repeating effect between two notes. We'll show you how to execute these with control and clarity, a great exercise for improving finger strength and dexterity.

Learn more: Trills

Why Learn This Song?

“Holier Than Thou” is a perfect lesson in balancing aggressive rhythm guitar playing with melodic soloing techniques. It’s an excellent song for guitarists looking to:

• Improve timing and rhythm tightness
• Develop expressive lead techniques
• Learn the building blocks of modern metal guitar
• Understand song structure in a hard rock/metal context

Our lesson is designed to give you insight into not just how to play the notes, but why these techniques work together to create the song’s powerful impact. Whether you're working on building speed, control, or expressive phrasing, this track will challenge and inspire you.

Techniques Covered in This Lesson

• Palm Muting
• Power Chords
• Alternate Picking
• Slides
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Trills