"Lux Æterna" is a song by Metallica from their 2023 album, 72 Seasons. It was the lead single from the album and marked the band's first new music in six years since Hardwired... to Self-Destruct (2016).

About the Song:

• Release Date: November 28, 2022
• Album: 72 Seasons (2023)
• Genre: Thrash Metal, Speed Metal
• Written By: James Hetfield & Lars Ulrich
• Label: Blackened Recordings
• Produced By: Greg Fidelman, James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich

Musical Style & Sound:

"Lux Æterna" is a fast-paced, high-energy track that throws back to Metallica’s early thrash roots. It has been compared to the band's Kill 'Em All-era sound, featuring rapid-fire riffs, blistering solos, and a galloping rhythm section. The song is only about three and a half minutes long, making it one of Metallica’s shortest songs in years—yet it packs a serious punch.

The song's structure and intensity are reminiscent of classic thrash influences, particularly Motörhead and Diamond Head, bands that strongly influenced Metallica’s early sound.

Lyrical Theme:

The title "Lux Æterna" is Latin for "eternal light." The lyrics celebrate the power of music and unity, describing a feeling of joy and liberation that comes from being immersed in live music and the heavy metal community. Lines like "Full speed or nothing" reflect Metallica’s relentless energy and dedication to their craft.

Music Video:

The music video, directed by Tim Saccenti, features Metallica performing under bright, flashing lights, emphasizing the song’s raw energy and old-school thrash vibe. The visuals are simple yet intense, aligning with the song's straightforward, high-octane nature.

Legacy & Reception:

"Lux Æterna" was met with overwhelmingly positive reviews, with fans and critics praising it for recapturing the band’s early thrash energy. It debuted strongly on rock and metal charts, proving that Metallica still knows how to deliver fast, aggressive, and electrifying metal.