# Metallica's Sphere Debut

> Metallica's massive Sphere residency opener blends thrash metal with horror visuals.
- Title: Metallica's Sphere Debut · Pitchfork | Shortify
- Summary: Metallica's massive Sphere residency opener blends thrash metal with horror visuals. Metallica performed an 18-song set at Las Vegas Sphere for their 24-show…
- Keywords: metallica, sphere, las vegas, residency, 2027, thursday, saturday, no repeat weekends, kill em all, 72 seasons, master of puppets, ride the lightning
- Source: Pitchfork — https://pitchfork.com/story/watch-metallica-spawn-a-monster-for-their-sphere-residency-opener
- Author: Jazz Monroe
- Published: 2026-10-02T14:22:07.343+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: metallica, sphere, las vegas, residency, 2027, thursday, saturday, no repeat weekends, kill em all, 72 seasons, master of puppets, ride the lightning
## Metallica's Sphere Debut
Metallica opened their Sphere residency with an 18-song set spanning from 1983's Kill Em All to 2023's 72 Seasons.
## Horror Visuals
The show featured towering tombstones, stained-glass windows, and a Lovecraftian Chthulu during Ride the Lightning.
## Horror Themes
The screen displayed nooses, crosses, flooded landscapes, and ruined buildings from horror movies.
## James Hetfield's Reaction
James Hetfield called the show 'pretty awesome' for modern technology and old guys playing loud music.
## Residency Schedule
The 24-show residency runs from October 1 to March 2027 with no overlapping setlists each week.
## Key takeaway

Metallica performed an 18-song set at Las Vegas Sphere for their 24-show residency starting October 1.