The Thing That Should Not Be; A Symphony of Brutality and Epic Melodies
Emerging from the depths of death metal in the late 1980s, “The Thing That Should Not Be” by Metallica stands as a testament to the band’s ability to seamlessly blend ferocious aggression with hauntingly beautiful melodies. This iconic track, featured on their seminal 1986 album Master of Puppets, is not just a song; it’s an experience, a journey through sonic darkness punctuated by moments of chilling serenity.
Musical Origins and Influences: Metallica emerged during the early 1980s amidst a burgeoning thrash metal scene. Their music was characterized by lightning-fast tempos, intricate guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and aggressive vocals. Bands like Slayer, Exodus, and Megadeth were contemporaries, pushing the boundaries of heavy metal with their raw energy and technical proficiency.
“The Thing That Should Not Be” showcases Metallica’s evolution from their earlier, rawer sound to a more complex and nuanced approach. Inspired by H.P. Lovecraft’s cosmic horror tales, particularly the short story “The Dunwich Horror,” the song delves into themes of ancient entities, forbidden knowledge, and the fragility of human existence in the face of unimaginable forces. This literary inspiration is evident in James Hetfield’s lyrics, which paint a chilling picture of an unspeakable terror lurking beyond the veil of reality.
Instrumental Breakdown: The song opens with a haunting acoustic guitar melody played by Kirk Hammett, setting an eerie and unsettling mood. This tranquility is abruptly shattered as the band explodes into a ferocious assault of double-bass drumming from Lars Ulrich, distorted guitar riffs from Hetfield and Hammett, and Hetfield’s signature growled vocals.
The verses are characterized by driving rhythms and intricate harmonies. Hammett’s lead guitar solos soar with both aggression and melodic beauty, demonstrating his virtuosity as one of the most acclaimed metal guitarists of all time. The chorus features a memorable melody that contrasts sharply with the brutality of the verses, adding a layer of complexity to the song’s structure.
The bridge section introduces a tempo shift, slowing down the pace while maintaining a sense of tension and anticipation. This allows for a brief moment of respite before the final verse erupts into a frenzied climax. The song concludes with a powerful fade-out, leaving listeners breathless and haunted by its unsettling atmosphere.
Lyrical Themes and Interpretation:
The lyrics of “The Thing That Should Not Be” are cryptic and suggestive, drawing heavily on Lovecraft’s themes of cosmic horror:
“ Whispers from beyond Ancient words unspoken Darkness falls upon you now Feel the icy chill Beneath your skin it crawls Evil grows within"
These lines evoke a sense of dread and helplessness, suggesting that an unspeakable evil is encroaching upon the protagonist. The references to “whispers from beyond” and “ancient words unspoken” hint at forbidden knowledge and the existence of entities beyond human comprehension.
The song’s title itself refers directly to Lovecraft’s concept of “The Great Old Ones,” ancient cosmic beings who exist outside of time and space, posing a threat to humanity’s sanity and survival. The lyrics express the fear and awe that such encounters inspire, painting a picture of utter despair in the face of unimaginable power.
Impact and Legacy: “The Thing That Should Not Be” has become one of Metallica’s most beloved and enduring tracks. Its haunting melodies, ferocious energy, and thought-provoking lyrics have resonated with fans for decades. The song is frequently performed live, and its inclusion on Master of Puppets helped solidify the album’s status as a metal masterpiece.
Beyond its commercial success, “The Thing That Should Not Be” has also influenced countless other metal bands, inspiring them to explore darker themes and more complex musical arrangements. Its fusion of brutality and beauty paved the way for the emergence of subgenres like melodic death metal and progressive metal, demonstrating Metallica’s enduring impact on the evolution of heavy music.
Table: Key Characteristics of “The Thing That Should Not Be”:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Tempo | Varied; fast tempos during verses and choruses, slower bridge section |
| Key | E minor |
| Time Signature | 4/4 |
| Lyrics | Inspired by H.P. Lovecraft’s cosmic horror |
“The Thing That Should Not Be” is more than just a heavy metal song; it’s a testament to the power of music to evoke emotions, tell stories, and explore complex themes. Its enduring popularity speaks to Metallica’s ability to connect with listeners on a visceral level, leaving an unforgettable mark on the world of heavy music.