Robert Trujillo Explores Diversity Among Metallica’s Bassists – ‘I Love the Fact That We’re All Different’
Robert Trujillo recently delved into the topic of Metallica’s bassists during a conversation with Eddie Trunk on his radio show, Trunk Nation. The dialogue centered on Trujillo’s reflections on the distinct styles of Cliff Burton and Jason Newsted.
Trujillo emphasized the diversity between the two bassists, expressing admiration for their unique approaches. He highlighted Burton’s remarkable musicality, likening him to renowned composers like Jaco Pastorius and Stanley Clarke. According to Trujillo, Burton’s focus extended beyond mere playing; he was deeply invested in crafting the bass’s voice within the song, showcasing a level of sophistication akin to composition.
Conversely, Trujillo praised Newsted for his ability to maintain stability and solidity within Metallica’s music. While acknowledging that Newsted’s style was more straightforward compared to Burton’s, Trujillo emphasized its effectiveness, describing it as “simple” yet robust.
Newsted reciprocated the respect during the release of Hardwired…to Self-Destruct in 2017, acknowledging Trujillo’s talent and expressing admiration for his longstanding contributions to the music scene.
The discussion surrounding Metallica’s bassists often sparks debates among fans, as observed in a Reddit thread from 2023. While opinions vary, many lean towards Trujillo’s proficiency. However, some fans appreciate Newsted’s stage presence, highlighting the multifaceted dynamics between technical skill and performance charisma.
Reflecting on his own style compared to Burton’s, Newsted previously shared insights in an interview with Guitar World’s Bass Player. Despite acknowledging Burton’s extraordinary talent, Newsted emphasized the evolution of Metallica’s cohesion and precision with his addition to the band.
Trujillo’s journey to joining Metallica was marked by a standout audition during the filming of Some Kind of Monster. Among numerous candidates, Trujillo’s flawless performance impressed the band members, earning him praise for elevating their collective musicianship.
As Metallica navigated through personal and creative challenges documented in Some Kind of Monster, familial bonds remained a constant source of support and inspiration. The documentary showcased the band’s vulnerability and resilience, highlighting the significance of family amidst their tumultuous journey.
Additionally, the film shed light on Metallica’s artistic processes, including their experimentation at The Presidio and the exploration of unreleased tracks. Despite facing setbacks, the band’s commitment to their musical vision remained unwavering.
In essence, Trujillo’s reflections on Metallica’s bassists offer valuable insights into the band’s evolution and the enduring impact of their musical contributions.