By Josh 
The definition of a “diehard” invites an ongoing debate among Metallica fans about what it means to truly support the band. Are the diehards those who fiercely clung to Metallica’s early thrash roots, criticizing every evolution from Load to short haircuts, or those who embraced the band’s bold ventures, even St. Anger and the controversial Napster drama? Few projects test this loyalty like 2011’s Lulu, Metallica’s collaboration with Lou Reed.
For Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett, Lulu remains a high point in their career, despite its polarizing reception. “We like being challenged,” he explained, reflecting on the project. Critics and fans alike were split, but Hammett has no regrets. Tracks like “Junior Dad,” in particular, left an emotional mark on the band. Hammett called it one of Metallica’s best works, describing how its themes of strained father-son relationships resonated deeply with the group.
Lulu could have been a simple collaboration remixing Lou Reed classics, especially after their joint performance of “Sweet Jane” at the 2009 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame anniversary show. Instead, the two icons dove into uncharted waters, crafting an ambitious concept album inspired by Frank Wedekind’s 19th-century plays. With its spoken-word style and abstract themes, the album confounded many fans, but for Reed, this was the culmination of his career—a bold statement before his passing in 2013.
The 20-minute closer “Junior Dad” encapsulates the essence of Lulu. Its slow build and poignant lyrics left both Metallica and Reed’s widow, Laurie Anderson, emotionally moved. While its Spotify streams (350k) pale in comparison to Enter Sandman (1.5 billion), Junior Dad stands as a rewarding experience for those willing to listen with an open mind.
Perhaps the true diehards are the ones willing to explore Lulu’s depths, accepting its place as part of Metallica’s boundary-pushing ethos. After all, Hammett and company have always played for themselves first—and Lulu is proof that they’re unafraid to test their fans’ limits.