Spencer Charnas Reflects on Touring with Metallica
A Dream Come True
In a recent interview with WRIF radio station’s Meltdown, Spencer Charnas, the frontman of ICE NINE KILLS, shared his experiences touring stadiums worldwide with the legendary band METALLICA over the course of 2023, 2024, and 2025. Reflecting on his musical journey, Charnas mentioned, “If you go back to my love of music since I was a little kid — you got NIRVANA and you got METALLICA, and those were two of the bands that really got me into wanting to play guitar.” He vividly recalled attending a METALLICA concert in 1997 at the Boston Garden with his father, marking a pivotal moment in his life.
The Impact of the Experience
Charnas expressed how the opportunity to tour with METALLICA was surreal. “Getting the call to do that, the first show in Vegas… if it all ended there, it would’ve been incredible,” he stated. The experience evolved from a single performance to a full world tour, which he described as “some of the most incredible experiences of my life.” He praised METALLICA and their crew for treating ICE NINE KILLS exceptionally well throughout the tour.
Adapting to the Unique Stage Design
One notable aspect of the METALLICA “M72” tour was its innovative in-the-round stage design, which relocated the iconic METALLICA Snake Pit to the center of the venue. Charnas remarked on the challenge of adjusting to such an unusual setup, saying, “It took us a little while to get our sea legs… I was, like, ‘Man, I’m getting winded.'” He learned to leverage the video monitors in large stadiums, allowing him to conserve energy while still engaging the audience.
Learning from the Legends
During the tour, Charnas had the chance to interact with METALLICA’s frontman, James Hetfield. He recalled a conversation where Hetfield asked if they had figured out how to use the stage yet, to which he humorously replied that they were still figuring it out. Charnas emphasized the professionalism of METALLICA, noting, “They’re pros. And they still sound and put on such a fantastic show.”
Coping with Stage Fright
When asked about stage fright, Charnas admitted that it sometimes strikes, particularly in smaller venues. “When you’re used to playing in stadiums or arenas, and then you go to a smaller one, you’re like, ‘I’m kind of a little nervous,'” he shared. However, the nerves dissipate once the performance begins, especially when fans sing along to their songs.
Reflecting on the Journey
In a previous interview, Charnas described the emotional impact of touring with METALLICA. The nostalgia of seeing them perform for the first time in 1997 remains fresh in his mind. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to tour alongside a band that shaped his musical aspirations and emphasized the kindness they showed to ICE NINE KILLS throughout the tour.
New Music and Future Endeavors
In addition to touring, ICE NINE KILLS has been busy releasing new music. In February, they launched the single “Twisting The Knife” from the soundtrack of the horror blockbuster “Scream 7,” featuring Mckenna Grace. They also released a glam rock single titled “Hell Or High Slaughter (Grave Diggler: Pt. 2)” under the alias GRAVE DIGGLER in March, showcasing their versatility and creativity.
Conclusion
Spencer Charnas’s experience touring with METALLICA is a testament to the power of music and the connections it creates. From childhood dreams to sharing the stage with idols, Charnas’s journey is an inspiring reminder of how passion and perseverance can lead to extraordinary opportunities. As ICE NINE KILLS continues to grow and evolve, fans eagerly await what lies ahead for the band.
FAQs
What was Spencer Charnas’s first experience with METALLICA?
Charnas attended a METALLICA concert in 1997 with his father at the Boston Garden, which profoundly impacted his love for music.
How did ICE NINE KILLS adapt to the unique stage design of the METALLICA tour?
Charnas mentioned that it took time to get used to the in-the-round stage design, but they learned to utilize video monitors to enhance their performance without excessive movement.
Did METALLICA provide any advice to ICE NINE KILLS during the tour?
Yes, James Hetfield inquired if they had figured out the stage yet, indicating that even seasoned performers like him were still adapting to the unique setup.
What new music has ICE NINE KILLS released recently?
ICE NINE KILLS released “Twisting The Knife” for the “Scream 7” soundtrack and a glam rock single called “Hell Or High Slaughter (Grave Diggler: Pt. 2)” in March.
