Metallica are 30 years deep into a storied career, but they are still doing new things, like playing China for the first time ever.

The band performed in the country last week, commandeering Shanghai's Mercedes-Benz Arena for two sold-out nights. The first evening's show sold out faster than that of any other Western act … ever. Local fans were starved for live Metallica and they turned out in droves.

Over 10,000 fans converged on the arena, with fan-filmed footage of 'Fade to Black,' 'Nothing Else Matters' and 'Hit the Lights' has landed online. As you can see and hear, the crowd was roaring along with the band, absorbing every precious note, riff and grunt.

In an interview with the media (seen above), frontman James Hetfield admitted he was not sure what to expect, admitting, "I was told people would be sitting down and clapping and very polite, and that would be fine, as well. But we were very excited to see people singing the words, joining in and becoming a part of the show, which is what we really love." Drummer Lars Ulrich also spoke about strengthening the relationship between Metallica and their Chinese contingent of fans by filming the experience.

The band also posted 20 minutes of footage as it prepped for Summer Sonic in Tokyo, Japan. You can enjoy rehearsal space footage of the 'Welcome Home (Sanitarium)' practice as well as Kirk Hammett meeting and greeting a fan. The show version of 'Welcome Home' is also included. If you need something to watch during your lunch hour, this footage is most certainly it. By the way, we loved seeing the mighty 'Tallica in shorts and flip flops while running through the song.

In other Metallica news, their 3-D film 'Metallica Through the Never' will enjoy a premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. It's set for Sept. 9 at 7:30PM.

 Watch Metallica Perform 'Fade to Black' in China

Watch Metallica Perform 'Nothing Else Matters' in China

Watch Metallica Perform 'Hit the Lights' in China

Watch Metallica Footage Prepping for Japan Summer Sonic Show

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