Young hard rock band has been opening for thrash veterans’ shows, including a visit to Brazil in 2022
In recent years, the Greta Van Fleet has toured as the opening attraction of Metallica. In fact, they came to Brazil together in 2022 for four presentations, in São Paulo, Curitiba, Belo Horizonte and Porto Alegre.
What has it been like for the young hard rock band to work with the thrash metal veterans? In an interview with American radio Q104.3 (via Blabbermouth / site Igor Miranda), bassist and keyboardist Sam Kiszka revealed some details of the partnership.
From start, Sam — which makes up the Greta Van Fleet alongside brothers Josh (voice) and Jake Kiszka (guitar) and Danny Wagner (drums) — pointed out that it was possible to develop “a great relationship” with the Metallica. The exchange is precisely in the sense of learning.
“We learned a lot from what they do, filling stadiums… They are a band with a lot of consistency and a lot of passion for what they do, they take it very seriously.”
Another point reinforced by the bassist is the experience of James Hetfield (voice and guitar), Kirk Hammett (guitar), Lars Ulrich (battery) and Robert Trujillo (low). The first three, who have been part of the thrash group since the beginning — even though Dave Mustaine has occupied the position of Hammett in the initial months — they have been filling stadiums all over the planet since before any musician in the world Greta have been born.
“It’s really fascinating to see this group of people who have dedicated their entire lives to doing what they do so well.”
Lars Ulrich likes Danny Wagner
Still during the interview, Sam Kiszka surprised by revealing a detail about Lars Ulrich. The drummer of Metallica said he really enjoyed the work of his colleague on the instrument Greta Van Fleet,Danny Wagner.
“Lars told us he really enjoys hearing Daniel when you’re getting your massage to relax before the show. Right after that, he goes to his practice room and kind of improvises a little bit.”
Metallica Discipline
One of the great lessons learned from the Greta Van Fleet regarding the longevity of the Metallica It has to do with an aspect that is not always thought of, but very important: food. Thrash metal veterans are very careful in this sense, which raised a warning signal for their younger colleagues.
“They are very serious when it comes to diet. They eat the same thing every day, they are focused on that. It’s something we want to do when we’re that age. I think that’s a great standard to set.”
The M72 tour
O Greta Van Fleet was even scheduled to open some shows on the band’s current tour. Metallica, “M72”, which will tour the world until 2024. The tour aims to offer two shows in each city visited by the band, 72 hours apart — hence the number in the name of the tour.
+++ READ MORE: Metallica’s innovative tour proposal for 2023 and 2024
To encourage the purchase of tickets for both nights, the promise is of a very different experience, as the musicians change the repertoire and even the opening acts. To give you an idea: on the first dates announced in Europe, the position of introductory band will be rotated between Architects, Mammoth WVH, Five Finger Death Punch and Ice Nine Kills. In North America, the Architects gives way to the celebration of Panther with guests Zakk Wylde (guitar) and Charlie Benante (battery).
Aware that its audience is renewing itself, especially after the presence of music “Master of Puppets” on the series’ soundtrack “Stranger Things”, the group decided to encourage such a movement. For the shows M72, there will be lots of discounted tickets for fans under 16. After all, it is through the kids that heavy metal will continue to live.
Part of the profits from each ticket sold overall will go towards NGO All Within My Hands, maintained by the band itself. The institution combats food insecurity and provides assistance in areas of natural disasters. During the musicians’ recent visit to Brazil, in April 2022, they allocated an undisclosed amount to the Pequeno Cotolengo Health Complex, which helps people with multiple disabilities in Curitiba.
The dates announced by Metallica so far they run until September 2024, in Mexico. The expectation is that, after that, the band will return to South America.
Source: Rollingstone

Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.