"The God That Failed" by Metallica

Unlock the crushing tone and precision riffing of Metallica’s "The God That Failed" with LickLibrary’s in-depth, note-for-note guitar lesson. This classic track from Metallica's self-titled "Black Album" delivers a blend of groove-laden metal and nuanced guitar technique that makes it essential learning for aspiring rock and metal guitarists. In this lesson, we break down every riff, lick, and lead section to help you capture the essence of James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett’s iconic playing. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Its Guitar Work

Released in 1991, "The God That Failed" stands out for its mid-tempo chug, melodic leads, and heavy, locked-in rhythm guitar work. It's a masterclass in crafting emotionally resonant metal that doesn't rely on speed but rather on groove, tone, and articulation. The guitar parts showcase a balance between tight, palm-muted riffs and soaring melodic passages—perfectly encapsulating Metallica’s shift toward a more mainstream metal sound in the early '90s.

This lesson is perfect for intermediate players aiming to solidify core metal techniques while building expression and tone control. Each section of the song offers a new technical challenge or opportunity for refinement.

James Hetfield & Kirk Hammett: The Architects Behind the Riffs

The guitar work on "The God That Failed" is a collaborative masterpiece by James Hetfield, one of metal’s most precise rhythm players, and Kirk Hammett, whose expressive soloing defines Metallica's lead guitar voice. Hetfield’s aggressive down-picking and tight rhythm work provide the structural foundation, while Hammett’s solos incorporate expressive phrasing, fluid legato, and well-placed bends that bring emotional intensity to the track.

Learning this song gives players a direct insight into the synergy between Hetfield’s rhythm precision and Hammett’s melodic creativity—essential knowledge for anyone looking to master the genre.

Key Guitar Techniques Covered in This Lesson

Palm Muting

A cornerstone of Metallica's sound, palm muting is used extensively in the main riff and verse sections. This technique provides the tight, percussive chug that drives the track’s groove. Mastering this allows players to control dynamic and rhythmic expression more effectively.

Power Chords

This song utilises power chords to deliver its signature heavy rhythm tone. Understanding how to voice and transition between power chords quickly and cleanly is essential for maintaining the song’s aggressive pulse.

Alternate Picking

Throughout the main riff and pre-chorus sections, alternate picking ensures speed and precision in string transitions. It helps build picking endurance and consistency—crucial for any aspiring metal player.

String Bending

Kirk Hammett’s solos in the track make notable use of expressive string bending to convey emotion and maintain fluidity. This technique strengthens finger control and enhances melodic phrasing.

Vibrato

Vibrato is used to give sustains a vocal-like quality, especially during the lead parts. Good vibrato separates robotic playing from expressive guitar work.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

The solo incorporates hammer-ons and pull-offs to create fluid legato runs. These techniques allow for smoother transitions between notes and improve speed with less picking effort.

Slides

Slides are used for melodic connection between notes in the solo and fill sections. They are an effective way to add nuance and fluidity to phrasing.

Pinched Harmonics

In select rhythm and lead phrases, pinched harmonics create squealing overtones that cut through the mix. This technique adds aggression and character to your playing.

Trills

Brief trills appear in the solo and fills, adding flair and a classical-metal edge. Practicing trills helps develop finger strength and speed for lead playing.

Why Learn This Song?

Learning "The God That Failed" is more than just learning a Metallica song—it's about internalising a range of essential rock and metal guitar techniques within a real-world context. The song’s moderate tempo allows intermediate players to focus on execution and tone rather than raw speed, making it a perfect piece to refine technical skills while developing musical phrasing and dynamics. This lesson is designed to help guitarists not just play the parts, but understand the mechanics behind them and how they fit within a full band arrangement.

Techniques Featured in This Lesson

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