Portals (Record Store Day RSD 2022) CD

Portals is a significant release for a few reasons. Firstly, it's not only the first debut solo release from Metallica guitar-slinger Kirk Hammett, but also by any member of the band. Secondly, it's a surprisingly cinematic affair, with Hammett's trademark riffs, solos and motifs coming accompanied by string quartets and soaring orchestration. Thirdly - and arguably most importantly - it's very good. An exploration of instrumental heavy rock fused with the grand ideas and grandiose movements of John Barry, John Williams and Ennio Morricone style movie soundtracks (not to mention one or two nods to John Carpenter's self-produced themes), the four tracks that make up the mini-album are immersive, entertaining and arguably far more adventurous than anything Metallica has made in recent times.