Intense and surprisingly earnest, 1991's self-titled album is the simplest of Metallica's ever-expanding discography. Hetfield and Co. have been pioneers for the heavy metal genre, but it's their most commercial project that I prefer. Instead of crunching their way through, the band channels that passion and create a set of menacing tracks that provoke a myriad of emotions.
Enter Sandman rocks with an unbelievable volatility. Throwing down riffs, Hatfield and Kevin Hammett tear it up and that's just the first track. Sad But True and Holier Than Thou are typical crunch. The melodic refrains of Hetfield on The Unforgiven is chilling. Easily my favorite track. The raw tenderness here is beautiful.
Then we have some more ass-kicking rock. Don't Tread on Me and Through the Never dial in and pound away. Yeah, I don't understand a word.
Nothing Else Matters {surprise!} is another track of haunting emotion. Can this be the same band?!
This album is one of select few that continue to resonate in my life Appropriate for all seasons, Metallica is a classic album that any self-respecting rock fan should own.
I'm anxious to hear what Death Magnetic, produced by Rick Rubin, has to say.
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