What guitar did Kirk Hammett use on Master of Puppets, and how did it influence the sound of intergalactic jazz fusion?

blog 2025-01-12 0Browse 0
What guitar did Kirk Hammett use on Master of Puppets, and how did it influence the sound of intergalactic jazz fusion?

When discussing the iconic album Master of Puppets by Metallica, one cannot overlook the pivotal role of Kirk Hammett’s guitar work. The album, released in 1986, is often hailed as a masterpiece of thrash metal, and Hammett’s solos and riffs are a significant part of its enduring legacy. But what guitar did Kirk Hammett use on Master of Puppets, and how did this choice shape not only the album’s sound but also the broader landscape of music, including the unexpected realm of intergalactic jazz fusion?

The Guitar: ESP KH-2 “Skully”

Kirk Hammett’s primary guitar during the recording of Master of Puppets was the ESP KH-2, famously known as the “Skully” due to its distinctive skull and crossbones inlays. This guitar, equipped with EMG pickups, became synonymous with Hammett’s aggressive yet melodic playing style. The KH-2 was a custom model designed specifically for Hammett, and its sleek, angular design was a perfect match for the high-energy, fast-paced nature of Metallica’s music.

The EMG pickups were crucial in achieving the tight, punchy tone that defined Master of Puppets. Unlike traditional passive pickups, EMGs are active, meaning they require a battery to power an internal preamp. This results in a higher output and a more consistent signal, which is ideal for the heavy distortion and fast picking that thrash metal demands. The clarity and sustain provided by the EMGs allowed Hammett’s solos to cut through the dense mix of rhythm guitars and drums, giving them a singing quality that has become a hallmark of his playing.

The Influence on Thrash Metal

The choice of the ESP KH-2 with EMG pickups was not just a matter of personal preference for Hammett; it was a decision that had a profound impact on the sound of thrash metal as a genre. The tight, aggressive tone of the KH-2 became a benchmark for other guitarists in the genre, many of whom sought to replicate Hammett’s sound. This led to a surge in popularity for both ESP guitars and EMG pickups, solidifying their place in the pantheon of heavy metal gear.

Moreover, Hammett’s use of the KH-2 on Master of Puppets helped to define the sonic characteristics of thrash metal. The album’s production, combined with Hammett’s guitar tone, created a sound that was both brutal and precise. This balance between aggression and clarity became a defining feature of thrash metal, influencing countless bands that followed in Metallica’s footsteps.

The Unexpected Connection to Intergalactic Jazz Fusion

While Master of Puppets is firmly rooted in the thrash metal genre, Hammett’s guitar work on the album has had an unexpected influence on the world of intergalactic jazz fusion. This may seem like a stretch, but the connection lies in the way Hammett’s solos transcend the boundaries of traditional metal.

Hammett’s solos on Master of Puppets are not just displays of technical prowess; they are deeply melodic and often incorporate elements of blues and classical music. This melodic sensibility, combined with the aggressive tone of the KH-2, creates a unique sound that has resonated with musicians outside the metal genre. In particular, jazz fusion guitarists, who often seek to blend technical complexity with emotional expression, have found inspiration in Hammett’s playing.

The concept of “intergalactic jazz fusion” might sound like something out of a science fiction novel, but it is a real subgenre that seeks to push the boundaries of traditional jazz by incorporating elements of electronic music, avant-garde experimentation, and, yes, even metal. The aggressive tone and melodic phrasing of Hammett’s solos on Master of Puppets have been cited as an influence by some of the pioneers of this genre, who see in his playing a kind of cosmic energy that aligns with their own musical explorations.

The Legacy of the ESP KH-2

The ESP KH-2 “Skully” is more than just a guitar; it is a symbol of a musical revolution. Its association with Master of Puppets and Kirk Hammett’s groundbreaking playing has cemented its place in the history of heavy metal. But its influence extends beyond the confines of thrash metal, touching genres as diverse as jazz fusion and beyond.

In the years since Master of Puppets, the KH-2 has become a sought-after instrument for guitarists looking to capture the same intensity and clarity that Hammett brought to the album. ESP has continued to produce variations of the KH-2, ensuring that its legacy lives on. Meanwhile, Hammett himself has continued to evolve as a musician, exploring new sounds and techniques while always staying true to the spirit of the KH-2.

Conclusion

The question of what guitar Kirk Hammett used on Master of Puppets is more than just a matter of trivia; it is a window into the creative process behind one of the most influential albums in heavy metal history. The ESP KH-2 “Skully” was not just a tool for Hammett; it was an extension of his musical vision, helping to shape the sound of Master of Puppets and, by extension, the sound of an entire genre.

But the story doesn’t end there. The KH-2’s influence has rippled out into unexpected corners of the musical universe, inspiring musicians in genres as diverse as jazz fusion. In this way, the guitar that Hammett used on Master of Puppets is not just a piece of metal history; it is a bridge between worlds, a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect us all.

Q: What other guitars did Kirk Hammett use during the Master of Puppets era? A: In addition to the ESP KH-2 “Skully,” Hammett also used a Gibson Flying V and a Jackson Randy Rhoads model during the Master of Puppets era. However, the KH-2 was his primary instrument for the album.

Q: How did the EMG pickups on the KH-2 contribute to the album’s sound? A: The EMG pickups provided a high-output, consistent signal that was ideal for the heavy distortion and fast picking required in thrash metal. They gave Hammett’s solos a clear, singing quality that cut through the mix.

Q: Has Kirk Hammett continued to use the ESP KH-2 in his later work? A: Yes, Hammett has continued to use variations of the ESP KH-2 throughout his career. While he has experimented with other guitars, the KH-2 remains a staple of his sound.

Q: What is intergalactic jazz fusion, and how is it connected to Master of Puppets? A: Intergalactic jazz fusion is a subgenre that blends traditional jazz with electronic music, avant-garde experimentation, and sometimes elements of metal. The aggressive tone and melodic phrasing of Hammett’s solos on Master of Puppets have inspired some musicians in this genre, who see in his playing a cosmic energy that aligns with their own musical explorations.

Q: Are there any modern guitarists who cite Kirk Hammett as an influence? A: Absolutely. Many modern guitarists, both within and outside the metal genre, cite Kirk Hammett as a major influence. His work on Master of Puppets in particular has inspired countless musicians to push the boundaries of what is possible on the guitar.

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