Lars Ulrich Says Metallica’s Upcoming Sphere Residency Is ‘Intimidating’
It was only a matter of time before the biggest band in metal decided to plant their flag in the most advanced venue on the planet. Metallica is preparing to bring their high-octane live show to the technologically advanced Las Vegas Sphere this fall, a move drummer Lars Ulrich admits feels both “overwhelming” and “fucking intimidating.” The residency, titled Life Burns Faster—a nod to a lyric from the band’s landmark track “Master of Puppets”—is scheduled to begin on October 1, 2026, and will run through March 13, 2027.
Metallica Expands Sphere Residency to 24 Shows
The band initially announced eight dates for the residency, but due to high demand, the run has since been expanded to 24 performances. The schedule consists of 12 “No Repeat Weekends,” with the band playing distinct, unique sets each Thursday and Saturday night. During a recent appearance on U2 guitarist The Edge’s SiriusXM show, Close To The Edge, Ulrich shared that he was present for the opening night of U2’s inaugural Sphere residency in 2023, an experience he credited as a major source of inspiration for the band’s decision to take on the venue.
Why the Sphere Is a New Challenge for Metallica
“I was there opening night and was so just fucking awestruck, inspired, energized—all of it,” Ulrich told The Edge. “It was just, like, ‘Holy shit, this is somehow another frontier.’” Ulrich noted that while the band is known for maintaining complete control over their production environments, the move to the Sphere serves as a purposeful challenge. “It’s a place maybe we don’t end up in often enough, because we have a tendency to put ourselves in environments that we completely control and know. And so I think it’s really good to be able to throw yourself for a loop like that.”
Metallica Discusses Filming the Sphere Residency
The band has confirmed they are in talks to film the residency, leveraging the venue’s massive 16K wraparound screens and specialized sound system to offer fans a new way to experience their catalog. As Metallica prepares for the opening night, they join a growing list of major acts to occupy the venue, including the Eagles, Phish, Dead & Company, and No Doubt. Despite the technical pressure, Ulrich remains focused on the opportunity: “It’s gonna be challenging. But hopefully when we step out on stage that first night, we’ll have it somewhat together.”