Metallica: Fans flock to Perth’s Murray Street Mall for limited-edition band merchandise ahead of show

Hundreds of devout Metallica fans have descended on Perth’s Murray Street Mall in pursuit of bespoke merchandise sold at the band’s pop-up store.

And while spirits were high, not all metal heads left with what they came for as many of the limited edition Perth-themed shirts and posters were sold out by 1pm.

With the thrash band launching the Australian leg of their M72 World Tour at Optus Stadium on Saturday night, the crowd comprised scores of interstate and overseas visitors who had planned to follow them along their entire jaunt Down Under and into New Zealand.

Staff said revellers had queued from as early as 5am to be first through the doors at 8.30am, and by lunchtime, the line still measured close to 100m.

Melbourne-based fan Ryan Copsinis said he’s been listening to Metallica since before he was even born.

“My dad had headphones on my mum’s stomach when she was pregnant, so it’s been plugged into me when I was in the womb,” he told PerthNow.

Snagging tickets to every Australian show, Mr Copsinis was raised in Perth and is grateful to have a reason to return after 10 years.

Paying $800 for his ticket to the show, the returning West Aussie will be immersed in the infamous Snake Pit where he’ll be as close to the action as fans can get.

Fellow East Coasters Jade Martin and James Williamson arrived in Perth on Friday morning and wasted no time in heading to the CBD to soak in the atmosphere.

“I’ve seen them (Metallica) four times, once in 2010, once in 2012, and twice in 2013,” Mr Williamson said.

While Ms Martin’s parents had not allowed her to attend the band’s 2013 string of Soundwave Festival shows, so was eager to experience the band live for the first time.

“I was 16 when they were here last, my parents wouldn’t let me go, so I’m geared up,” she said, “it’s finally time”.

Diehard fan Thomas Kanara’s journey began in Waiouru, a small town in New Zealand’s north island.

“Originally, I planned to drive the entire tour with friends, a full road trip experience, campervan, music and a shared passion, hitting every city together. But when it came time to buy the ‘I Disappear’ ticket, it turned out that I was the only one in my group who managed to secure one before they sold out,” he said.

The 51-year-old said it was “incredible” how a shared adoration for Metallica could bind fans from around the world.

Ken Taylor — a world-renowned painter of music-themed art who began his creative journey in Perth — sat crafting his next masterpiece inside the store as the echo of metal rung out.

Exclusive merchandise featuring the regular Metallica collaborator was available in store, with the artist’s latest piece to be won by those purchasing M72 Fan Cards.

Rebecca Kamm said it was “a dream come true” to meet the touring artist, who had signed her copy of Metallica’s 72 Seasons album cover.

Young fan Tylah Maher became the art herself, flaunting her fingernails that had each been painted with different Metallica album themes from over the years.

Meanwhile, at Optus Stadium, event production staff continued to build the coveted stage that venue chief executive Mike McKenna had on Thursday labelled “top secret”.

PerthNow was granted exclusive access inside Optus Stadum on Friday, and even without a crowd, the ground already felt electric.

Dozens of workers in hi-vis raced across the stadium floor, securing barricades and strapping giant inflatable M’s to the side of stage as the final touches came together on one of the biggest productions the stadium has ever seen.

There was plenty of personality in the chaos too with crew members spotted leaning into the Halloween spirit, working in costume, while Suicidal Tendencies drummer Jay Weinberg, son of Bruce Springsteen’s longtime band mate Max, was spotted behind the kit during soundcheck.

Front and centre sits the legendary Snake pit — an exclusive pocket wrapping around the front of stage, giving die-hard fans an up-close and intimate view few will ever experience.

For those who spent up to $4000 for a limited spot in the intimate 360 degree viewing area, it’ll be worth every cent.

Along with Suicidal Tendencies, Metallica will be supported by Evanescence, with the band already putting on a show for Perth fans at Metro City on Thursday night.

“Last night was so special. Thank you for joining us on our first show of the tour!” the band wrote to Instagram on Friday.

“Can’t imagine a better kickoff. We love you! Happy Halloween!”