KIRK HAMMETT Portals RSD Release Ocean Blue Vinyl (2022)

Record Store Day pressings exist on a spectrum, from cynical cash grabs to genuine collector objects. This ocean blue vinyl EP from Kirk Hammett falls firmly into the second category, and not just because of the colour, though the colour is excellent.

Portals was Hammett doing something the Metallica machine doesn't really allow: a personal, horror-influenced instrumental record that plays like a soundtrack to a film he hasn't made yet. Four tracks of cinematic heavy metal atmosphere from one of the genre's most recognisable players, pressed on limited RSD ocean blue vinyl. If your record shelf doesn't already look like a gothic fever dream, this is a solid contribution. If it does, you already know you need this.

Format: Vinyl EP, ocean blue pressing. RSD 2022 release. Country of origin: USA.

Fans of: Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Marty Friedman, Voivod, Diamond Head, Metallica, Iron Maiden, Anthrax, Slayer.