Metallica – Six Feet Down Under (Live) (2010)

Artist: Metallica
Album: Six Feet Down Under
Released: November 12, 2010
Label: Universal Music / Blackened Recordings
Genre: Thrash metal, heavy metal, live album
Length: Approx. 70 minutes (varies by edition)
Producer: Metallica

Overview

Six Feet Down Under is a live album documenting Metallica’s performances in Australia and New Zealand during the World Magnetic Tour (2009–2010). The album was initially released as an exclusive tour CD and digital download to fans in Australia, later receiving broader availability.

The album is notable for featuring rare live tracks not commonly performed in other regions, making it a unique collector’s item for fans. The title reflects the band’s appreciation for their fans “down under” and the intense reception during these shows.

Album Credits

Band Members

James Hetfield – lead vocals, rhythm guitar
Kirk Hammett – lead guitar
Robert Trujillo – bass, backing vocals
Lars Ulrich – drums

Production

Producer: Metallica
Live Mixing & Engineering: Mike Gillies
Label: Universal Music / Blackened Recordings

Tracklist (Selected Highlights)

Creeping Death
For Whom the Bell Tolls
Harvester of Sorrow
Fade to Black
Battery
Master of Puppets
Nothing Else Matters
Enter Sandman
One
Seek & Destroy

Note: The album includes selections from multiple shows across Australia and New Zealand, with setlists slightly varying by city.

Commercial Performance

Initially a fan-exclusive release, later available digitally and through regional distribution
Celebrated by fans as a collectible live album showcasing Metallica’s southern hemisphere performances
Highlights the band’s global touring strength and popularity in Australia and New Zealand

Musical Direction & Themes

Focuses on classic Metallica thrash and heavy metal songs, emphasizing energetic live performance
Captures the band’s tight musicianship and audience interaction
Features a mix of both older material (Ride the Lightning, Master of Puppets) and newer songs (Death Magnetic)

Key Highlights

Crowd participation and enthusiastic “down under” audience is prominently captured
Includes fan favorites rarely played outside this region, making the album unique
Live arrangements include extended guitar solos, riffs, and audience sing-alongs

Fun Facts & Trivia

Released exclusively to fans attending the Australian leg of the tour, making it highly sought-after
The album title plays on the phrase “down under,” a common nickname for Australia
Tracks were recorded during multiple concerts to ensure the best live performances were selected
Showcases the energy of Metallica’s World Magnetic Tour, considered one of their most successful tours
Includes tracks from Death Magnetic, blending new material with classic hits

Did You Know?

Six Feet Down Under was a limited-edition release to reward Australian fans for their loyalty and enthusiasm
Some songs included are rare live performances never recorded elsewhere
The album emphasizes Metallica’s strong fanbase in Australia and New Zealand, where their shows are known for massive crowd engagement
The album title humorously nods to both Australia’s nickname and the heavy-hitting nature of the music
Tracks feature extended solos and improvisations unique to this tour

Critical Reception

Praised for:
- High-quality live recording
- Energetic performances and setlist selection
- Capturing the enthusiasm of Australian and New Zealand audiences
Criticisms:
- Limited availability initially made it difficult for international fans to access

Album Rating

8.5/10

Six Feet Down Under is a gem for collectors and fans, capturing Metallica at peak live energy in Australia and New Zealand. The combination of classics and modern tracks, along with audience interaction, makes it a standout live release in the band’s discography.