Although he didn’t plan it in advance, the song’s vibe and title were inspired by the classic 1973 Clint Eastwood western of the same name.
The song "was not meant to be specifically music for that film, but it was once it was written, I immediately thought it conveyed the same sentiment as the film, so the piece was christened accordingly,” explains Hammett. “The music for 'High Plains Drifter' initially came from a flamenco piece I had written. It was a two-and-a-half-minute piece, and I really liked it, but it was one of those riffs that would be hard to integrate into Metallica.
“I knew I wanted to do something with it, even though it came out spontaneously. I had been sitting outside messing around with a flamenco acoustic guitar I'd just bought, and it flowed out in the moment. I was determined it would have a life. It would have its moment."
Recorded around the world – from Los Angeles to Paris to Oahu – the four-song instrumental EP “Portals” is billed as “the result of Kirk’s life’s journeys and an invitation to tap into your own inner world”; the project was also heavily influenced by classical music, soundtracks, horror movies, and the work of iconic Italian composer Ennio Morricone.
“Portals” will be available across digital platforms, on CD, and as an Ocean Blue Vinyl EP (including a download card).
Metallica will begin a series of rescheduled South American shows in Santiago, Chile on April 27.
Kirk Hammett
“Portals” EP
Release date: April 23
01 – Maiden And The Monster
02 – The Jinn
03 – High Plains Drifter
04 – The Incantation
See also:
Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett previews solo debut Portals
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Metallica stream Master Of Puppets classic from 2022 Las Vegas show
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Search Metallica at hennemusic
