Of Wolf And Man – Metallica

Dive deep into Metallica’s feral and thunderous Of Wolf And Man with this exclusive note-for-note guitar lesson from LickLibrary. This detailed breakdown captures every snarling riff, searing lead line, and tight rhythm section, teaching you how to replicate the exact guitar parts made famous by James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett. This isn’t just a song breakdown – it’s an opportunity to refine key metal techniques, strengthen your rhythm chops, and gain the kind of right-hand control that defines Metallica’s signature style. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarists: Hetfield & Hammett

Of Wolf And Man is a standout track from Metallica’s 1991 self-titled album, often referred to as The Black Album. James Hetfield, widely considered one of the greatest rhythm guitarists in rock and metal, lays down brutally tight riffing with surgical precision. Kirk Hammett complements Hetfield’s playing with expressive solos that showcase his flair for melodic phrasing and aggressive technique. Both guitarists have significantly influenced the metal genre, and this track is a perfect example of their synergy. Learning their parts provides insight into the foundational elements of metal rhythm and lead guitar.

Breakdown of Techniques in the Lesson

Palm Muting

One of the first things you'll notice in Of Wolf And Man is the masterful use of palm muting. This technique provides the percussive chug that drives the song’s main riff. You'll learn how to dial in tight control between muting and open picking, a vital skill for mastering metal rhythm guitar.

Alternate Picking

This lesson gives ample opportunity to develop alternate picking, particularly in the main verse and pre-chorus sections. This efficient picking method ensures accuracy and speed, helping players tackle faster riffs without sacrificing clarity.

Power Chords

Throughout the song, you’ll use power chords to deliver Metallica’s signature punch. These chords are essential in metal and hard rock, allowing for both heaviness and melodic movement. You’ll explore subtle shifts and slides that create groove and tension.

String Bending

Kirk Hammett’s solo work in the track uses expressive string bending to push the emotion of the leads. This technique adds character to your phrasing and is vital for creating vocal-like expression in solos.

Vibrato

Paired with bends, vibrato is essential for making solos sing. This lesson focuses on developing even, controlled vibrato – a hallmark of great lead playing and a signature aspect of Hammett’s melodic phrasing.

Pinched Harmonics

You’ll also learn to execute pinched harmonics, which Hammett uses to punctuate lead passages with squealing overtones. This technique adds an aggressive edge and is a powerful tool for injecting dynamics into solos.

Slides

Slides play a prominent role in the transitional fills and riffs within Of Wolf And Man. Mastering smooth and precise slides will help you connect ideas fluidly across the fretboard.

Hammer-ons & Pull-offs

The lesson also integrates hammer-ons and pull-offs, especially within Kirk’s quick licks. These techniques are essential for legato playing, allowing fast passages to flow without excessive picking.

Galloping Rhythms

One of Metallica’s signature rhythmic traits is their use of galloping rhythms, and this track delivers it in full force. You'll practice syncing your right-hand movements to achieve the propulsive, triplet-based feel that defines so many of their riffs.

Unison Bends

Kirk uses unison bends to build tension and excitement in the solo. This technique is great for emphasising notes and adding drama to your leads.

Why Learn Of Wolf And Man?

Learning this song gives players a comprehensive look at essential metal techniques, but more than that, it improves timing, picking accuracy, and hand synchronisation. The rhythm parts will tighten your alternate picking and palm muting, while the lead work will stretch your bending, vibrato, and expressive phrasing. Whether you're an aspiring rhythm player or lead guitarist, there’s something in this track for you.

This is an excellent piece for intermediate players looking to push their skills further, or advanced guitarists wanting to lock in Hetfield-style rhythm and Hammett-style leads with surgical precision. With detailed instruction and tab breakdowns, LickLibrary ensures you’re not just learning the notes – you’re learning to play like Metallica.

Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Palm Muting
• Alternate Picking
• Power Chords
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Pinched Harmonics
• Slides
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Galloping Rhythms
• Unison Bends