Metallica: Quebec Magnetic Blu-ray Movie

Rating summary

Movie		4.5
Video		4.5
Audio		4.5
Extras		4.0
Overall		4.5

Metallica: Quebec Magnetic Blu-ray Movie Review

Metallica: Quebec Magnetic was recorded live at the Colisee Pepsi in Quebec City, Canada on October 31 – November 1, 2009. As the title of this release reveals, at the time Metallica were touring to support their latest album, Death Magnetic.

The majority of the material here is from the Death Magnetic album and the band looks very comfortable with it. Right from the get-go the energy is outstanding, with “The End of The Line” in particular sounding terrific. Older Metallica fans will probably get a bit nostalgic here as the intensity in this track definitely reminds about the band's golden days. I also liked “Broken, Beat & Scarred”, as James’ voice here sounds really great (it actually reminded me about the “Master of Puppets” album).

Metallica also perform some of their greatest hits, including “One”, “Sad But True”, “Master of Puppets”, “Enter Sandman”, and “Nothing Else Matters”. As usual, these songs immediately get the crowd fired up. And as usual, Kirk’s solos are top-notch. The classic “Battery”, in particular, confirms yet again that these guys will always remain in a league of their own.

A lot of people will probably want to know how this show compares to the likes of Metallica: Français pour une nuit and Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, Anthrax: The Big 4 - Live from Sofia, Bulgaria. I’d say that the type of energy here definitely matches that witnessed in previous Metallica shows that have already appeared on Blu-ray. I also like the fact that the emphasis is not on a big number of classic tracks, as the new material from Death Magnetic sounds really, really great. Overall, this is a rawer and slightly edgier show that should be appreciated by older fans of the band.

In addition to the eighteen tracks in the main program, Metallica: Quebec Magnetic also includes eight live bonus tracks. The highlights here are the legendary "For Whom The Bell Tolls", "Holier Than Thou", and "Damage Inc.", featuring yet another masterclass level live guitar solo from Kirk. Terrific show.

Note: The footage used for Metallica: Quebec Magnetic is from the two shows Metallica staged in Quebec City in the fall of 2009. It was shot by Wayne Isham (director: Metallica: S&M, Metallica: Cunning Stunts, Metallica: St. Anger Rehearsals).

And nothing else matters...

Metallica: Quebec Magnetic Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

Presented in an aspect ratio of 1.78:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and granted a 1080i "live" transfer, Metallica: Quebec Magnetic arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Alliance Entertainment.

Recorded live in Quebec City, Quebec on October 31 - November 1, 2009, Metallica: Quebec Magnetic looks rather impressive on Blu-ray. There is a very short prologue with black and white footage from Quebec that boasts wonderful depth despite the fact that the camera constantly moves. Inside the venue, however, multiple cameras were used to follow the band on a decent size stage. There are plenty of close-ups as well as larger panoramic shots that show the enthusiastic crowds around the band (the stage is right in the middle of the venue). The lights often change but never become overwhelming. Clarity is excellent from start to finish, even when the lighting is subdued. Additionally, motion-judder is never a serious issue of concern. Some extremely light noise, however, occasionally creeps in. All in all, this is a fine looking show that should make a lot of Metallica fans very happy. (Note: This is a Region-Free Blu-ray disc. Therefore, you will be able to play it on your PS3 or SA regardless of your geographical location).

Metallica: Quebec Magnetic Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

There are three standard audio tracks on this Blu-ray disc: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0., and LPCM 2.0. There are no optional subtitles on this disc.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is very clearly the best one on this disc. It immediately opens up the show and gives it a type of depth which the other two tracks simply cannot reproduce. All you need to do is listen to the opening of "Enter Sandman" or "For Whom The Bell Tolls" to realize that it is clearly superior - which should not be surprising, really. Overall, balance is also very good, with the music never overpowering James' voice, or the other way around. The crowd is felt throughout the entire show, but it never become distracting.

Metallica: Quebec Magnetic Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

• Quebec City Love Letters - in this short featurette, the members of Metallica explain why they keep coming back to Quebec City. Also included are a few quick comments from fans of the band. In English and French, with imposed English subtitles where necessary. (9 min, 1080i).

Metallica: Quebec Magnetic Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

I think it is fair to say that as long as Metallica are willing to play live, people will flock to see them. There really isn't another heavy metal band like them. It is that simple. If you are wondering whether Metallica: Quebec Magnetic is worth owning, the answer is yes, most definitely. I personally really liked the fact that this was not a show with an emphasis on classic material. It looks great, it sounds terrific, and the Blu-ray release is very attractively priced. What else can a Metallica fan ask for? HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.