Complete List Of Metallica Albums And Songs Discography

Photo: Ismael Quintanilla III / Shutterstock.com

Metallica was formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1981 by drummer Lars Ulrich and guitarist/vocalist James Hetfield. The band is regarded as one of the pioneering groups in the heavy metal genre, significantly contributing to the development and popularization of thrash metal in the early 1980s. Metallica’s influence on the music industry is profound, having sold over 125 million albums worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music artists in history.

Metallica’s significance in the music business is underscored by their numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009. The band released its first single, “Whiplash,” in 1983, followed by their debut album, “Kill ‘Em All,” the same year. Over the years, Metallica has released a total of 10 studio albums, 4 EPs, 5 live albums, and numerous compilations.

The band’s music was heavily influenced by British heavy metal bands like Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, and Motörhead, as well as the new wave of British heavy metal bands, including Iron Maiden and Diamond Head. In turn, Metallica has inspired countless artists across various genres, particularly in heavy metal, thrash metal, and even alternative rock, contributing to the evolution of these genres.

Kill ‘Em All

Released July 25, 1983

Kill ‘Em All, Metallica’s debut album, thundered onto the heavy metal scene on July 25, 1983, establishing the band as a formidable force in the genre. Released through Megaforce Records, this groundbreaking album was born from the raw energy and ambition of a young band eager to make their mark. After forming in 1981, Metallica quickly became known in the Los Angeles club scene, their music resonating with fans of the burgeoning thrash metal movement. Their journey led them to San Francisco to team up with bassist Cliff Burton, and together they crafted a sound that was both aggressive and intricately precise.

Recording at Music America Studios in Rochester, New York, under the guidance of producer Paul Curcio, Metallica initially envisioned the album with a more provocative title and cover art. However, practical concerns about marketability led to the now-iconic Kill ‘Em All title, a suggestion from Burton that reflected the band’s frustration with the initial distribution challenges.

The album’s promotion included a co-headlining tour with Raven, named “Kill ‘Em All for One,” and spawned singles like “Whiplash” and “Jump in the Fire.” Despite a modest initial shipment, the album’s sales and influence grew rapidly, especially following the success of Metallica’s subsequent albums. By 1986, Kill ‘Em All had made its debut on the Billboard 200, a testament to Metallica’s rising popularity.

Critically, Kill ‘Em All was lauded for its innovative blend of British heavy metal riffs and hardcore punk tempos, a combination that helped define thrash metal. The album’s unrelenting energy and technical prowess, particularly in tracks like “The Four Horsemen” and “Seek & Destroy,” showcased Metallica’s skill and set a new standard for the genre.

The recording process wasn’t without its challenges and changes, including the departure of original guitarist Dave Mustaine, replaced by Kirk Hammett, who brought his own flair to the album’s solos. Despite these changes, Metallica’s core lineup of James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, and Cliff Burton, along with Hammett, solidified during this period, setting the stage for the band’s future successes.

Building on the foundational impact of Kill ‘Em All, it’s important to note the album’s journey in the charts and its growing legacy over the years. Initially, the album’s reach was modest, with an initial shipment of 15,000 copies in the US. However, its popularity surged, particularly following Metallica’s intensive touring schedule, including the pivotal “Seven Dates of Hell” European tour, which significantly bolstered the album’s sales and Metallica’s international stature.

By 1986, the ripple effect of Metallica’s third album, Master of Puppets, helped Kill ‘Em All make its Billboard 200 debut, peaking at number 155. This marked a significant milestone, considering the album’s thrash metal genre was still burgeoning in the mainstream music scene. The 1988 reissue by Elektra Records, following Metallica’s signing to the major label, gave the album a further boost, allowing it to reach number 120 on the Billboard 200.

The album’s accolades didn’t stop there; its certification by the RIAA as 3× Platinum in 1999 underscored its continued popularity and commercial success, decades after its initial release. This certification reflects over three million copies shipped in the United States alone, a testament to its lasting appeal.

Kill ‘Em All‘s songs have become anthems in Metallica’s discography, with tracks like “Seek & Destroy” and “The Four Horsemen” remaining staples in the band’s live performances. These songs, along with the rest of the album, are celebrated not just for their aggressive sound but also for their thematic depth, exploring topics from personal strife to broader societal issues, resonating with fans across generations.

CD Track Listings:

1. Hit the Lights
2. The Four Horsemen
3. Motorbreath
4. Jump in the Fire
5. (Anesthesia) – Pulling Teeth
6. Whiplash
7. Phantom Lord
8. No Remorse
9. Seek and Destroy
10. Metal Militia

Ride the Lightning

Released July 27, 1984

Adding to the rich narrative of Ride the Lightning, Metallica’s second studio venture, it’s pivotal to highlight the album’s commercial success and the evolution it marked in the band’s sound and thematic depth. Following its release on July 27, 1984, by Megaforce Records, the album not only solidified Metallica’s standing in the thrash metal genre but also showcased their willingness to push musical boundaries.

Ride the Lightning was a departure from the unrelenting speed and aggression of Kill ‘Em All, incorporating more melodic elements, complex arrangements, and introspective lyrics. Cliff Burton’s influence was particularly notable, introducing elements of music theory into the band’s songwriting process. This album also marked the last time former guitarist Dave Mustaine would receive songwriting credits, and the first to include contributions from his successor, Kirk Hammett.

The album’s reception from critics was overwhelmingly positive, heralded as a more ambitious and mature effort than its predecessor. It was during the promotion of Ride the Lightning that Metallica embarked on the “Bang That Head That Doesn’t Bang” tour, further establishing their live performance prowess. The band’s appearance at significant music festivals like Monsters of Rock and Day on the Green later that year played a crucial role in expanding their fanbase.

Commercially, Ride the Lightning achieved remarkable success, especially considering the band’s limited mainstream exposure at the time. Initially, 75,000 copies were pressed for the American market, but by November 1987, the album had sold half a million copies. Its chart performance was notable as well, peaking at number 100 on the Billboard 200. The subsequent signing with Elektra Records and the reissue of the album contributed to its continued sales momentum.

By 2012, Ride the Lightning was certified 6× Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), a testament to its enduring popularity and significant impact on the heavy metal genre. Its inclusion in numerous “best album” lists by various rock publications further underscores its critical acclaim and influential status.

The track listing of Ride the Lightning features some of Metallica’s most iconic songs, including the haunting “Fade to Black” and the epic instrumental “The Call of Ktulu.” Each track showcases the band’s range, from the furious thrash metal assaults to more nuanced and dynamic compositions.

The personnel involved in the creation of Ride the Lightning included not only the band members—James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Cliff Burton, and Kirk Hammett—but also producer Flemming Rasmussen, who played a crucial role in capturing the album’s sound. The collaborative effort resulted in a record that was both a product of its time and a timeless piece of heavy metal history.

In summary, Ride the Lightning stands as a monumental album in Metallica’s discography and the metal genre as a whole. Its blend of technical musicianship, complex arrangements, and lyrical depth set new standards for thrash metal and influenced countless bands in the years to follow.

CD Track Listings:

1. Fight Fire With Fire
2. Ride the Lightning
3. For Whom the Bell Tolls
4. Fade to Black
5. Trapped Under Ice
6. Escape
7. Creeping Death
8. The Call of Ktulu

Master of Puppets

Released March 3, 1986

Master of Puppets not only solidified Metallica’s place in the annals of heavy metal history but also marked a pivotal point in the genre’s evolution. With its March 3, 1986 release, the album brought an unprecedented level of complexity and depth to thrash metal, both musically and lyrically. Recorded at Sweet Silence Studios in Copenhagen under the adept production of Flemming Rasmussen, it was Metallica’s final work with bassist Cliff Burton, whose tragic death in a bus accident cast a long shadow over the album’s subsequent tour and the band’s future.

The album’s iconic cover art, featuring a cemetery of white crosses manipulated by unseen puppet masters, perfectly encapsulates the themes of control and manipulation that run through the album’s lyrics. This imagery, combined with the band’s refusal to release a single or video prior to the album’s launch, set the stage for a unique promotional strategy that relied heavily on Metallica’s rigorous touring schedule, including a significant stint opening for Ozzy Osbourne.

Upon its release, Master of Puppets was met with universal acclaim, quickly rising to number 29 on the Billboard 200 without the benefit of mainstream radio play. Its initial pressing saw significant sales, leading to a gold certification within a year, and by 2003, the RIAA had certified the album six times platinum, signifying six million copies shipped in the United States alone. Its influence was further recognized in 2015 when it was inducted into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress, a testament to its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance.

The album’s tracks, including the monumental title song “Master of Puppets,” “Battery,” “Welcome Home (Sanitarium),” and the instrumental “Orion,” showcase Metallica’s ambitious songwriting and intricate arrangements. These songs not only explore themes of power, corruption, and addiction but also highlight the band’s musical growth, with Cliff Burton’s knowledge of music theory greatly contributing to the album’s complexity and depth.

The Damage, Inc. Tour that followed the album’s release brought Metallica’s music to a wider audience, further solidifying the band’s reputation as a formidable live act. However, the tour was marred by the tragic loss of Cliff Burton, whose death prompted the band to return home and begin the difficult process of finding a new bassist, ultimately choosing Jason Newsted to fill the void.

In the years since its release, Master of Puppets has continued to be celebrated as one of the greatest metal albums of all time, influencing countless bands and musicians across various genres. Its enduring legacy is a testament to Metallica’s vision and the indelible mark they’ve left on the world of music.

CD Track Listings:

1. Battery (5:12)
2. Master of Puppets (8:35)
3. The Thing That Should Not Be (6:36)
4. Welcome Home (Sanitarium) (6:27)
5. Disposable Heroes (8:16)
6. Leper Messiah (5:40)
7. Orion (8:27)
8. Damage, Inc. (5:32)

…And Justice For All

Released September 7, 1988

“…And Justice for All,” Metallica’s fourth studio effort, marked a pivotal moment in the band’s history, not only because it was the first album to feature bassist Jason Newsted, but also due to its thematic depth and musical complexity. Released on August 25, 1988, by Elektra Records, this album delved into the realms of political and legal injustices, a departure from the personal and existential themes prevalent in their earlier work.

Recorded over four months in early 1988 at One on One Recording Studios in Los Angeles with producer Flemming Rasmussen, “…And Justice for All” presented a blend of aggressive complexity and rapid tempos, with songs that often eschewed conventional verse-chorus structures. The album’s lyrical content tackled issues such as governmental corruption, censorship, and the horrors of war, encapsulated in tracks like “Harvester of Sorrow,” “Eye of the Beholder,” and the Grammy-winning single “One.”

The album cover, conceived by James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich and brought to life by the Gormans, is a striking visual metaphor for the themes within, depicting Lady Justice bound and on the verge of breaking, underscoring the album’s exploration of justice and fairness being undermined by greed and corruption.

Despite the critical acclaim it received for its ambitious scope and musical proficiency, “…And Justice for All” was not without its controversies, particularly regarding its production. The mix of the album, described as “dry and sterile,” notably diminished the bass, an aspect that has been a point of contention and discussion among fans and critics alike. This choice in the mixing process, as revealed in later interviews, was not meant to undermine Newsted’s contributions but was a result of Hetfield and Ulrich’s desire for a specific sound, influenced by their “shot” hearing after extensive touring.

Commercially, the album was a significant success, peaking at number six on the Billboard 200 and achieving 8× platinum certification by the RIAA by 2003, a testament to its enduring appeal and the band’s growing popularity. The reissue of the album in 2018 further cemented its legacy, introducing it to a new generation of listeners and reaffirming its status as a cornerstone of Metallica’s discography and a milestone in the thrash metal genre.

Through its intricate compositions, thematic depth, and the circumstances surrounding its creation, “…And Justice for All” stands as a testament to Metallica’s ambition and their ability to channel personal and collective challenges into a work that resonates with listeners on many levels, making it a defining album not just for the band, but for heavy metal as a whole.

CD Track Listings:

1. Blackened
2. …And Justice for All
3. Eye of the Beholder
4. One
5. The Shortest Straw
6. Harvester of Sorrow
7. The Frayed Ends of Sanity
8. To Live Is to Die
9. Dyers Eve

Metallica (The Black Album)

Released August 12, 1991

Metallica’s self-titled album, commonly known as “The Black Album,” represents a monumental shift in the band’s musical direction and stands as a defining moment in their career. Released on August 12, 1991, by Elektra Records, this fifth studio album saw Metallica transition from their thrash metal roots to a more refined, heavy sound that emphasized slower tempos and greater sonic depth.

The recording process, which took place at One on One Recording Studios in Los Angeles, was marked by tension and creative disagreements between the band and producer Bob Rock. Despite these challenges, the collaboration resulted in a groundbreaking album that combined Metallica’s raw energy with Rock’s polished production, leading to an accessible sound that appealed to a wider audience.

The Black Album was propelled into the mainstream by its powerful singles, including “Enter Sandman,” “The Unforgiven,” “Nothing Else Matters,” “Wherever I May Roam,” and “Sad but True.” These tracks, characterized by their memorable riffs and Hetfield’s introspective lyrics, have become some of Metallica’s most iconic songs, showcasing the band’s ability to blend heavy metal with emotionally resonant themes.

Commercially, the album was a staggering success, debuting at number one in multiple countries and achieving multi-platinum status worldwide. In the United States alone, it has sold over sixteen million copies, making it one of the best-selling albums in the country since Nielsen SoundScan tracking began. The album’s enduring popularity is evidenced by its presence on the Billboard 200 for over 550 weeks, a testament to its widespread appeal and influence.

Metallica supported the album with extensive touring, including notable performances at the Monsters of Rock festival and a co-headlining stadium tour with Guns N’ Roses. The tours not only solidified Metallica’s reputation as a formidable live act but also brought the band’s music to a global audience, further cementing their status as heavy metal icons.

Metallica’s self-titled album, commonly known as “The Black Album,” marked a significant milestone in the band’s career and in the heavy metal genre, achieving widespread success across various charts globally. Upon its release, the album quickly ascended to the number one position on the Billboard 200 in the United States, a first for Metallica, signifying their breakthrough into mainstream success. This achievement was mirrored in Australia, where it also secured the top spot, underscoring the album’s universal appeal. In the United Kingdom, the album’s compelling blend of heavy metal and more accessible rock elements resonated strongly, earning it a number one position and solidifying Metallica’s presence in the European market.

The album’s chart-topping success wasn’t confined to English-speaking countries; it reached the pinnacle in Germany, Sweden, and Switzerland, among others, showcasing its global impact. Even in countries with less prominence in the heavy metal scene, “The Black Album” made significant inroads, charting impressively across various continents. This widespread chart success was a testament to Metallica’s ability to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers with their music, particularly with this album’s more polished and universally appealing sound.

The accolades for “The Black Album” were not limited to chart success; it garnered numerous awards and nominations that further cemented its legacy. The album’s lead single, “Enter Sandman,” not only enjoyed commercial success but also earned Metallica a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance, highlighting the band’s critical acclaim in addition to their commercial achievements. The album itself was recognized in various prestigious awards, reflecting its impact not just within the heavy metal genre but across the broader music industry. These accolades served to acknowledge Metallica’s artistic evolution and the bold artistic direction they undertook with “The Black Album,” which ultimately paid off in both critical and commercial acclaim worldwide.

CD Track Listings:

1. Enter Sandman
2. Sad But True
3. Holier Than Thou
4. The Unforgiven
5. Wherever I May Roam
6. Don’t Tread on Me
7. Through the Never
8. Nothing Else Matters
9. Of Wolf and Man
10. The God That Failed
11. My Friend of Misery
12. The Struggle Within

Load

Released June 4, 1996

“Load,” Metallica’s sixth studio album, marked a significant shift in the band’s musical direction when it was released on June 4, 1996. Moving away from their thrash metal roots, Metallica embraced a hard rock sound infused with elements of Southern rock, blues rock, country rock, and alternative rock. This evolution in style led to mixed reactions among fans and critics but did not hinder the album’s commercial success. “Load” debuted at the top of the US Billboard 200 chart, maintaining its number one position for four consecutive weeks. It achieved remarkable sales, moving 680,000 units in its first week alone, making it the biggest debut of 1996 and marking the largest opening week in Metallica’s career at that time.

The album’s commercial performance extended beyond the United States. It reached number one on the charts in several countries, including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, and the Netherlands, among others, showcasing Metallica’s global appeal and the universal resonance of their new musical direction. Despite the controversy surrounding the shift in style, “Load” was certified 5× platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), a testament to its enduring popularity and significant sales in the United States.

“Load” also spawned four singles that contributed to its commercial success: “Until It Sleeps,” “Hero of the Day,” “Mama Said,” and “King Nothing.” Each of these singles played a crucial role in the album’s marketing campaign, further cementing Metallica’s presence in the music world during the mid-90s. The album’s exploration of more personal and introspective themes, a departure from the band’s earlier social and political commentary, resonated with a wide audience, contributing to its widespread acclaim and commercial achievements.

CD Track Listings:

1. Ain’t My Bi**h
2. 2 X 4
3. The House Jack Built
4. Until It Sleeps
5. King Nothing
6. Hero of the Day
7. Bleeding Me
8. Cure
9. Poor Twisted Me
10. Wasting My Hate
11. Mama Said
12. Thorn Within
13. Ronnie
14. The Outlaw Torn

Reload

Released November 18, 1997

“Reload,” Metallica’s seventh studio album, was released on November 18, 1997, and served as a follow-up to their previous album, “Load.” Notably, it was the last studio album to feature bassist Jason Newsted before his departure in 2001. The album made a strong debut, landing at number one on the Billboard 200 and selling 436,000 copies in its first week. It was eventually certified 3× platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), marking a significant commercial success.

The recording sessions for “Reload” took place at The Plant Studios in Sausalito, California, with Bob Rock returning as the producer. Originally intended to be part of a double album alongside “Load,” the band opted to release the albums separately due to the challenges of recording such a vast amount of material simultaneously. This decision allowed Metallica to refine the remaining songs and release them as “Reload” the following year.

“Reload” continued the stylistic shift seen in “Load,” moving further away from Metallica’s thrash metal roots and incorporating more elements of hard rock and other genres. Despite this, the album included tracks that have become live staples, such as “Fuel” and “The Memory Remains,” the latter featuring guest vocals from Marianne Faithfull. However, several tracks from “Reload” have never been performed live in their entirety, including “Better Than You” and “Slither.”

The album’s artwork, created by Andres Serrano, is titled “Piss and Blood XXVI” and continues the controversial use of bodily fluids seen in the cover of “Load.” The artwork and packaging, which included photos from the 1997 Cunning Stunts concert, added to the album’s distinct identity.

CD Track Listings:

1. Fuel
2. The Memory Remains
3. Devil’s Dance
4. The Unforgiven II
5. Better Than You
6. Slither
7. Carpe Diem Baby
8. Bad Seed
9. Where the Wild Things Are
10. Prince Charming
11. Low Man’s Lyric
12. Attitude
13. Fixxxer

St. Anger

Released June 5, 2003

“St. Anger,” Metallica’s eighth studio album, marked a significant turning point for the band when it was released on June 5, 2003. It was the final album Metallica released through Elektra Records and concluded their longstanding collaboration with producer Bob Rock, which began in 1990. Notably, “St. Anger” was recorded during a turbulent period for the band, with James Hetfield entering rehab for alcoholism and other addictions, causing a delay in the recording process. The album’s creation and the internal struggles within the band were candidly documented in the 2004 film “Metallica: Some Kind of Monster.”

“St. Anger” represented a departure from Metallica’s signature sound, featuring an alternative metal style, raw production, and a notable absence of guitar solos. The album’s artwork was crafted by Pushead, a frequent collaborator with the band. Despite its mixed critical reception, “St. Anger” debuted at the top of sales charts in 14 countries, including the US Billboard 200, and went on to win a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance for its lead single.

The recording sessions for “St. Anger” were unconventional; the band rented an old army barracks and converted it into a studio. The album was Metallica’s first as an official trio after bassist Jason Newsted’s departure. Bob Rock stepped in to play bass for the recording, and Robert Trujillo was later hired as the new bassist, though he didn’t participate in the recording. The album’s sound was a topic of much discussion among fans and critics, particularly the unique, metallic drum sound that Lars Ulrich achieved by recording without using the snares on his snare drum.

Upon its release, “St. Anger” was pushed out five days earlier than planned due to concerns over unlicensed distribution through file-sharing networks, a nod to Metallica’s previous legal battle with Napster. The album was promoted with a two-year touring schedule, and while certain tracks from “St. Anger” were regularly featured in live performances initially, they gradually disappeared from setlists in the years following the tour.

CD Track Listings:

1. Frantic
2. St. Anger
3. Some Kind of Monster
4. Dirty Window
5. Invisible Kid
6. My World
7. Shoot Me Again
8. Sweet Amber
9. The Unnamed Feeling
10. Purify
11. All Within My Hands

Death Magnetic

Released September 12, 2008

“Death Magnetic,” Metallica’s ninth studio album, marked a pivotal moment in the band’s discography when it was released on September 12, 2008, through Warner Bros. Records. The album stands out not only as the band’s first collaboration with producer Rick Rubin but also as the debut Metallica album featuring bassist Robert Trujillo. It also distinguished itself by crediting all band members for songwriting, a practice only previously seen on “St. Anger.”

The album was conceived between 2006 and 2008 across various studios in Los Angeles County, California. “Death Magnetic” signified a return to Metallica’s thrash metal roots, moving away from the stylistic deviations of their earlier work “St. Anger.” It featured more complex compositions, traditional guitar tunings, and marked the return of intricate guitar solos by Kirk Hammett and James Hetfield. Notably, it included Metallica’s first instrumental track since “…And Justice for All.”

“Death Magnetic” achieved significant commercial success, making Metallica the first band to have five consecutive albums debut at number one on the U.S. Billboard 200. The album received generally positive reviews, with critics appreciating the return to the band’s earlier thrash metal style. However, its production quality faced criticism for being overly compressed, a common issue in the era’s music known as the loudness war.

The album earned Metallica three Grammy Awards, including Best Metal Performance for “My Apocalypse.” To promote the album, the band embarked on the World Magnetic Tour, which spanned from October 2008 to November 2010. Additionally, in December 2011, Metallica released the “Beyond Magnetic” EP, featuring four unreleased tracks from the “Death Magnetic” sessions.

“Death Magnetic” was recorded with Rick Rubin’s guidance, emphasizing a raw and live sound, a stark contrast to the heavily edited and polished approach of previous albums. The band wrote and recorded the album in a more traditional manner, reminiscent of their earlier work, focusing first on songwriting before entering the recording phase. This approach, along with the inclusion of complex arrangements and guitar solos, was well-received by fans and critics alike, who viewed it as a strong comeback following the mixed reactions to “St. Anger.”

Despite its success, the album’s loudness and compression sparked discussions and criticisms about the modern music industry’s production standards, leading to calls from fans for a remixed or remastered version. In response to the feedback, Metallica released a “Mastered for iTunes” version with improved dynamics. “Death Magnetic” remains a significant entry in Metallica’s catalog, symbolizing a return to form and a reconnection with their thrash metal roots.

CD Track Listings:

1. That Was Just Your Life
2. The End of the Line
3. Broken, Beat & Scarred
4. The Day That Never Comes
5. All Nightmare Long
6. Cyanide
7. The Unforgiven III
8. The Judas Kiss
9. Suicide & Redemption
10. My Apocalypse

Hardwired… to Self-Destruct

Released November 18, 2016

“Hardwired… to Self-Destruct,” Metallica’s tenth studio effort, emerged on November 18, 2016, ending an eight-year hiatus that marked the longest gap between their studio albums. This double album was not only notable for being the band’s first release under their own label, Blackened Recordings, but also for its production by Greg Fidelman, who had previously engineered and mixed “Death Magnetic.”

Upon its release, “Hardwired… to Self-Destruct” continued Metallica’s streak of chart-topping debuts, securing the number one spot on the U.S. Billboard 200 and selling 291,000 album-equivalent units in its first week. This achievement etched Metallica’s name in history, making them the second band ever to have six consecutive albums debut at number one, following the Dave Matthews Band. The album received acclaim globally, topping the charts in 57 countries and garnering generally positive reviews from music critics. Metallica’s drummer, Lars Ulrich, later hailed the album as the band’s finest work in 2020.

The road to “Hardwired… to Self-Destruct” began as early as October 2011 when Robert Trujillo announced the band’s return to the studio. Over the years, Metallica teased new material, including the track “Lords of Summer” in 2014, and progressively revealed more about their recording process. By 2016, the band confirmed they were finalizing the album, with Greg Fidelman taking the helm as producer.

Musically, the album delved into themes of nihilism and pessimism, with the title track “Hardwired” reflecting on humanity’s self-destructive tendencies. Notably, the album did not feature songwriting contributions from lead guitarist Kirk Hammett due to the loss of his phone containing numerous riff ideas. This marked a significant departure from Metallica’s collaborative writing process. Despite this setback, the album explored various topics, including the pitfalls of fame in “Moth Into Flame” and a tribute to the late Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead in “Murder One.”

To promote the album, Metallica embarked on the extensive WorldWired Tour, starting in October 2016. The tour showcased the band’s enduring live prowess and brought “Hardwired… to Self-Destruct” to audiences worldwide.

CD Track Listings:

3 CD SET Deluxe Edition

Disc One

1. Hardwired
2. Atlas, Rise!
3. Now That We’re Dead
4. Moth Into Flame
5. Dream No More
6. Halo On Fire

Disc Two

1. Confusion
2. ManUNkind
3. Here Comes Revenge
4. Am I Savage?
5. Murder One
6. Spit Out The Bone

Disc Three

1. Lords Of Summer (2016)
2. Ronnie Rising Medley
3. When a Blind Man Cries
4. Remember Tomorrow
5. Helpless  – Live at Rasputin Music
6. Hit the Lights – Live at Rasputin Music
7. The Four Horsemen – Live at Rasputin Music
8. Ride the Lightning – Live at Rasputin Music
9. Fade to Black – Live at Rasputin Music
10. Jump in the Fire – Live at Rasputin Music
11. For Whom the Bell Tolls – Live at Rasputin Music
12. Creeping Death – Live at Rasputin Music
13. Metal Militia – Live at Rasputin Music
14. Hardwired – Live in Minneapolis

72 Seasons

Released April 14, 2023

“72 Seasons,” Metallica’s eleventh studio album, was unveiled on April 14, 2023, under their self-managed label, Blackened Recordings. The production was helmed by Greg Fidelman, who was also behind the desk for the band’s prior release, “Hardwired… to Self-Destruct” in 2016. This marks the second studio album by Metallica to be released through Blackened. Garnering generally positive critiques, the album was particularly lauded for James Hetfield’s lyrical depth and vocal prowess, though some noted the album’s extensive duration as a point of critique. “72 Seasons” was distinguished at the 66th Grammy Awards with three nominations, including Best Rock Album, Best Rock Performance for “Lux Æterna,” and Best Metal Performance for the title track “72 Seasons.”

The album is notable for featuring Metallica’s lengthiest track to date, “Inamorata,” surpassing the 11-minute mark. The journey to “72 Seasons” began as early as March 2019, with Robert Trujillo revealing that the band had commenced jamming on new material. Kirk Hammett, in the subsequent period, expressed the band’s intention to enter the studio post their WorldWired Tour. Hammett, having not contributed to the writing of “Hardwired… to Self-Destruct” due to a mishap involving his phone, mentioned he had amassed a substantial amount of material for the new project.

As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded in 2020, Lars Ulrich hinted at the possibility of the band working on the album during quarantine. By November of the same year, Ulrich revealed in an interview with Phoebe Bridgers that the band was deep into the writing process. The title “72 Seasons” reflects on the formative first 18 years of life, as described by Hetfield, suggesting the impact of childhood experiences on one’s adult life.

The album’s announcement was accompanied by the release of the lead single “Lux Æterna,” followed by other singles like “Screaming Suicide” and “If Darkness Had a Son,” each accompanied by music videos. The promotion for “72 Seasons” was extensive, featuring appearances on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and “The Howard Stern Show,” alongside a partnership with the online gaming platform Roblox.

Upon its release, “72 Seasons” soared to the top of charts in 20 countries, although it debuted at number 2 on the US Billboard 200, breaking Metallica’s streak of number one album debuts. The album’s reception has been largely favorable, with critics and fans alike commending Metallica’s ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their thrash metal roots.

CD Track Listings:

1. 72 Seasons
2. Shadows Follow
3. Screaming Suicide
4. Sleepwalk My Life Away
5. You Must Burn!
6. Lux Æterna
7. Crown of Barbed Wire
8. Chasing Light
9. If Darkness Had a Son
10. Too Far Gone?
11. Room of Mirrors
12. Inamorata

Metallica EPs Live Albums And Compilations

Garage Days

Released August 21, 1987

“The $5.98 E.P. – Garage Days Re-Revisited” holds a special place in Metallica’s discography, not just as their first EP but also as a tribute to their musical influences and a showcase of their ability to reinterpret songs in their unique style. Released in 1987, this EP was Metallica’s way of reintroducing themselves with Jason Newsted on bass, following the tragic death of Cliff Burton.

The EP’s development is marked by a series of unplanned events, including James Hetfield’s skateboarding injury, which led the band to focus on recording covers rather than original material. The selection of songs reflects Metallica’s diverse influences, ranging from the new wave of British heavy metal to punk, demonstrating the band’s adaptability and respect for their roots.

The recording process in Lars Ulrich’s soundproofed garage gave the EP an authentic, raw sound, embodying the spirit of garage band rehearsals and early metal recordings. The choice to include “The Wait” by Killing Joke, after a spontaneous jam session, and the decision to merge “Last Caress” and “Green Hell” into a single track, are testaments to Metallica’s creative spontaneity and willingness to experiment.

The EP’s pricing and marketing strategy, including the humorous suggestion to “STEAL IT” if overcharged, were innovative moves that reflected Metallica’s rebellious image and their commitment to their fan base. The reissue in 2018, making it available after being out of print for decades, allowed a new generation of fans to experience a pivotal moment in Metallica’s history.

CD Track Listings:

1. Helpless
2. The Small Hours
3. The Wait
4. Crash Course in Brain Surgery
5. Last Caress/Green Hell

Garage Inc.

Released November 24, 1998

“Garage Inc.” is a notable album by Metallica, showcasing the band’s ability to cover songs from a diverse range of artists and genres, effectively making these tracks their own. Released on November 24, 1998, this compilation album features covers that span the band’s career, including B-sides and the previously out-of-print “The $5.98 E.P. – Garage Days Re-Revisited.”

The production of “Garage Inc.” began right after Metallica concluded the North American leg of their Poor Re-Touring Me Tour. The band viewed this project as a lighter endeavor following their consecutive releases of more serious albums. The decision to record new covers and compile existing ones was unanimous among the band members, aiming to offer fans a comprehensive collection of Metallica’s take on influential tracks.

To support the album’s release, Metallica embarked on the “Garage Barrage Tour,” performing exclusively cover songs, while a tribute band covered Metallica’s original songs as the opening act. The album’s packaging, featuring the band members as mechanics in a photograph by Anton Corbijn, and a detailed 32-page booklet, reflects the garage theme and pays homage to the band’s roots and influences.

Critically, “Garage Inc.” received a range of reviews, with some praising the band’s energetic renditions of classic tracks, while others saw it as a fun but non-essential addition to Metallica’s discography. Despite mixed reviews, the album was a commercial success, debuting at number 2 on the US Billboard 200 and achieving multi-platinum status in the United States.

“Garage Inc.” is more than just a compilation; it’s a tribute to the music that shaped Metallica and a showcase of their versatility as musicians. The album serves as a bridge connecting fans to the broader landscape of rock and metal that influenced one of the genre’s most iconic bands.

CD Track Listings:

Complete List Of Metallica Albums And Songs Discography article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024