Bob Rock Praises Lars Ulrich’s Genius as a Drummer

Bob Rock’s Emotional Reunion with Metallica

Bob Rock, the renowned producer behind Metallica’s iconic sound from the early ’90s through the early 2000s, recently shared his heartfelt reaction after witnessing the band perform live for the first time in nearly 15 years. Rock, who produced legendary albums such as 1991’s *Metallica* (often referred to as the Black Album) and 2003’s *St. Anger*, attended a concert at So-Fi Stadium in Inglewood, California, in 2023. His experience left him profoundly moved, particularly by Lars Ulrich’s drumming.

Reflecting on the performance during an episode of *The Metallica Report*, Rock expressed his admiration for Ulrich’s ability to play “in the pocket,” a term referring to a drummer’s ability to lock in with the groove of the music. He reminisced about the band’s journey and their desire to incorporate more groove into their sound, a shift that began with the demos for the Black Album. “When I saw Lars, when I saw the pocket, I almost cried,” Rock revealed, emphasizing the emotional connection he felt to the music and the moment.

Comparing Lars Ulrich to Rock Legends

During the same interview, Bob Rock lavished praise on Lars Ulrich, asserting that he ranks among the greatest drummers in rock history. He compared Ulrich’s style to that of legendary drummers like Keith Moon and John Bonham, stating, “Lars plays to James. His fills are James’s riffs.” Rock highlighted how Ulrich’s drumming complements lead guitarist James Hetfield’s playing, creating a distinct sound that has become synonymous with Metallica.

Rock also noted that when he first heard the demo for “Sad But True,” he was struck by the similarities to Led Zeppelin’s “When the Levee Breaks,” particularly in how Ulrich’s drumming meshes with Hetfield’s guitar work. “Keith Moon played to (Pete) Townsend. John Bonham played to (Jimmy) Page,” he added, further solidifying Ulrich’s place among rock’s elite drummers.

Despite facing criticism over the years, especially regarding his drumming in the ’90s and early 2000s, Rock firmly defends Ulrich’s unique approach. “That’s his style. If he just played boom-dah, it wouldn’t be Metallica. So I think he’s a genius, to be quite honest,” Rock concluded, underscoring the importance of Ulrich’s contributions to the band’s success.

Lars Ulrich’s Admiration for John Bonham

Lars Ulrich’s reverence for Led Zeppelin’s John Bonham is well-known and has influenced his drumming style. In a 2021 appearance on *The Howard Stern Show*, Ulrich listed Bonham as his greatest drummer of all time. He described the thunderous, ambient sound of Bonham’s drumming, particularly in “When the Levee Breaks,” noting how Bonham’s timing and groove create a captivating pocket that resonates with listeners. “He’s a little bit behind on the snare. And it’s got in that groove. He’s in a pocket,” Ulrich stated, reflecting on what makes Bonham’s drumming timeless.

Conclusion

Bob Rock’s recent comments highlight the enduring legacy of Lars Ulrich as a drummer and his integral role in shaping Metallica’s sound. Through both critiques and commendations, it is clear that Ulrich’s style is not only unique but also essential to the band’s identity. As Rock emphasizes, the groove that Ulrich brings to the table is a hallmark of Metallica’s music, and his contributions deserve recognition as part of rock and metal history.

FAQs

Who is Bob Rock?

Bob Rock is a music producer best known for his work with Metallica, producing several of their most famous albums from 1991 to 2003.

What did Bob Rock say about Lars Ulrich?

Bob Rock praised Lars Ulrich as a “genius” drummer, highlighting his ability to play in sync with James Hetfield and comparing his style to legendary drummers like Keith Moon and John Bonham.

What is the significance of Ulrich’s drumming style?

Lars Ulrich’s drumming style is characterized by his unique fills and grooves, which complement the band’s sound and contribute to Metallica’s distinctive musical identity.

How did seeing Metallica live affect Bob Rock?

After nearly 15 years, Bob Rock was emotionally moved to see Metallica perform live, particularly impressed by Lars Ulrich’s drumming and the band’s overall groove during the concert.

Why is John Bonham important to Lars Ulrich?

John Bonham is a significant influence on Lars Ulrich’s drumming style. Ulrich has frequently cited Bonham as his greatest drummer, admiring his powerful, ambient sound and ability to create a strong groove in his performances.