Meaning: In this quote, Kirk Hammett, the lead guitarist of the iconic heavy metal band Metallica, reflects on the shift in the music industry and the evolution of guitar playing styles from the 1980s to the 1990s. The quote suggests that guitar players in the 1990s were moving away from the emphasis on technical prowess that characterized the music of the 1980s, particularly in the rock and heavy metal genres.

During the 1980s, the music scene was dominated by virtuoso guitar players such as Eddie Van Halen, Yngwie Malmsteen, and Steve Vai, who were known for their lightning-fast solos, intricate finger work, and technical proficiency. This era was often associated with flashy guitar pyrotechnics, shredding, and a focus on speed and precision. The emphasis on technical ability sometimes overshadowed other musical elements such as songwriting, melody, and emotional expression.

The 1990s, on the other hand, saw a shift in the approach to guitar playing. Many musicians began to prioritize raw emotion, authenticity, and simplicity over technical wizardry. This change was evident in the rise of grunge, alternative rock, and other subgenres that favored a more stripped-down, gritty sound. Bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden achieved massive success with their straightforward, angst-ridden music that resonated with a generation disillusioned with the excesses of the 1980s.

Kirk Hammett's observation about the reaction against the technique-oriented 1980s reflects a broader cultural shift in the music industry. The 1990s marked a period of rebellion against the flashy excesses of the previous decade, with many musicians and audiences seeking a return to authenticity and a more visceral connection to the music.

In the context of guitar playing, this shift manifested in a renewed focus on the fundamentals – powerful riffs, emotive solos, and a raw, unvarnished sound. Guitarists began to prioritize tone, feel, and storytelling through their playing, often eschewing the need to impress with technical fireworks. This approach resonated with audiences who were drawn to the sincerity and relatability of the music.

Furthermore, the 1990s also witnessed the resurgence of interest in vintage and analog equipment, as musicians sought to capture the warmth and imperfections of classic tones. This departure from the ultra-polished sound of the 1980s contributed to the overall "reaction" against the previous decade's emphasis on technical perfection.

Kirk Hammett's own playing style with Metallica exemplifies this shift. While he is undoubtedly a proficient and skilled guitarist, his approach to soloing and riffing often prioritizes emotion and melody over sheer technicality. His playing is characterized by its expressiveness, use of effects, and a willingness to experiment with different sounds and textures, reflecting the broader shift in guitar playing during the 1990s.

In conclusion, Kirk Hammett's observation about guitar players in the 1990s reacting against the technique-oriented eighties encapsulates a significant transformation in the music industry and the approach to guitar playing. The 1990s marked a departure from the flashy, technically driven music of the previous decade, with a renewed emphasis on emotion, authenticity, and a return to the roots of rock and roll. This shift not only impacted the way guitarists approached their craft but also reflected a broader cultural and artistic evolution during that time.