Metallica’s Kirk Hammett and James Hetfield delivered a six string salute to the United States with a tasteful, but heavy rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner” at the X Games in Austin, Texas on Saturday. Hammett took lead on the instrumental version of the national anthem, subtly nudging his wah-wah pedal throughout, while Hetfield backed up his bandmate with fiendish harmonies and stadium-sized power chords. Metallica also performed a full concert at the X Games on Saturday, co-headlining the Super Stage alongside Nicki Minaj. The lineup also featured Talib Kweli, Kid Ink, Joywave and the Glitch Mob.
