Metallica’s Kirk Hammett to Showcase Guitar Collection in Coffee Table Book

Metallica's renowned guitarist, Kirk Hammett, has partnered with Gibson Publishing to release a new book titled The Collection: Kirk Hammett. This luxury coffee table book provides an in-depth exploration of Hammett's extensive and elegantly curated collection of guitars, which he has accumulated over the years. This venture represents not just a mere display of instruments but a journey through the history and artistry of the guitars that have been pivotal in shaping the sound of Metallica, one of the most iconic bands in heavy metal history.

The book, spanning 400 pages, is a vivid photographic testament captured by the skillful lens of renowned rock photographer Ross Halfin. The images, taken across stunning locations in Hawaii and Los Angeles, showcase instruments that are as legendary as they are rare, including Hammett's prized possessions like the 1979 Gibson Flying V and the esteemed 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard, affectionately known as “Greeny.” This guitar holds a considerable history, having once belonged to blues legend Peter Green and later, guitarist Gary Moore.

Hammett's collaboration with Gibson for this project is a testament to the brand's commitment to preserving musical heritage. The book aims to capture the stories and the legacy of these instruments, offering fans a rare peek into the world of a music icon and his guitars. According to Cesar Gueikian, President and CEO of Gibson, this collaboration has been years in the making, underlining the meticulous effort that went into its creation. The book is not merely a catalog of instruments but an emotional and historical journey curated by Hammett himself, with insights into each guitar's unique history.

The Collection: Kirk Hammett is available in three distinct editions. The most exclusive of these, the Custom Edition, is priced at $799 and is limited to just 300 copies. It includes an impressive presentation box with custom artwork, a large-format hardcover book with a lenticular cover, and an art print signed by both Halfin and Hammett. Additional exclusive items like a miniature replica of Hammett's 1979 Gibson Flying V and a certificate of authenticity from Gibson Publishing significantly elevate its collectible value. The Deluxe Edition, priced at $299, also limited to 1,500 copies, features exclusive photography and a poster, while the Standard Edition provides an equally detailed yet more accessible option for collectors and fans alike.

This book not only marks a celebration of Hammett's illustrious career with guitars that have shaped countless Metallica anthems but also signifies Gibson Publishing's ongoing series of artist-focused publications. Following the success of The Collection: Slash, this release is another milestone in documenting the personal stories behind legendary musicians and their instruments.

For those eager to catch Kirk Hammett in action, he will soon be embarking on a tour across North America with Metallica's “M72 World Tour,” starting April 19th in Syracuse, New York. Not only does this provide a chance to see the master guitarist perform live, but it also underscores the living legacy of the instruments featured in the book, which continue to play an integral role in the sonic fabric of their performances.