Kirk Hammett, the iconic Metallica member, is set to release a new book that delves into his extensive collection of guitars. The book, titled “The Collection: Kirk Hammett,” written by Chris Vinnicombe, Gibson’s Editor-in-Chief, and published by Gibson Publishing, is a tribute to the world of guitars that have had a profound impact on his career.
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In a recent exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Hammett shared his excitement about sharing his passion for guitars with fans through this new endeavour. He expressed that the book is aimed at people who share his deep admiration for electric guitars and guitars in general. With 400 pages filled with insights and images, the book chronicles the instruments that have played a pivotal role in his musical journey, from his early days with Exodus to his time with Metallica.
Among the notable instruments featured in the book are Hammett’s beloved 1979 Gibson Flying V and the iconic 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard known as “Greeny,” previously owned by Peter Green of Fleetwood Mac and Gary Moore. The book not only showcases these guitars but also provides a behind-the-scenes look at the stories and memories attached to each instrument.
Through collaborations with renowned photographer Ross Halfin, the book captures stunning imagery of Hammett’s guitars, shot in locations such as Los Angeles and Hawaii. Hammett described the book as a personal tribute to the beauty of electric guitars and the profound impact they can have on an artist’s life. He shared that the first time he laid eyes on an electric guitar, it appeared to him as a symbol of motion and creativity, igniting his lifelong passion for these instruments.
Aside from celebrating his guitar collection, Hammett also pays homage to Hawaii in the book, highlighting the significance of the island as a place of inspiration and solace for him. He hopes that readers will not only appreciate the guitars showcased in the book but also gain a deeper understanding of his connection to the natural beauty of Hawaii and how it has influenced his music.
“The Collection: Kirk Hammett” is now available for fans to explore and discover the story behind each guitar in Hammett’s collection. With his book, Hammett invites readers on a visual and emotional journey that encapsulates his love for guitars and the profound impact they have had on his life and career.
For guitar enthusiasts and fans of Metallica alike, this book offers a unique insight into the world of one of rock music’s most influential guitarists. Through the pages of “The Collection,” Kirk Hammett invites readers to share in his passion for guitars and the enduring legacy of these iconic instruments.