After many years of musical experimentation and drastic changes in direction, Metallica made a definitive return to their roots.
Death Magnetic was a turning point in the band’s career and proved that Metallica could still satisfy their thrash metal fan base. If you enjoyed their transformation in the 90’s, you’ll be able to tolerate just about anything, let alone this album. Those who are itching for heaviness can happily purchase Death Magnetic for its refreshing old school attitude.
This was exactly what the group needed after the catastrophic failure of St. Anger. Many feared Metallica couldn’t recover their former glory. Although it doesn’t hold a candle to Ride The Lightning or Kill ‘Em All, this release was a sign that they were trying to reach back to their classic era.
The opening track stands out as the dawn of a new, readjusted band. That Was Just Your Life begins with a heartbeat and an epic intro, instantly hooking listeners with excitement and curiosity. Once the main riff kicks in, all hell breaks loose. Then, a beautiful thought runs through the minds of die hard fans who felt betrayed in the 90’s: “Is Metallica finally back?”
From the badass tempo changes to the technical guitar solos, it was clear that past life had been breathed back into the group.
Some of the gems on Death Magnetic include a crowd-chanter titled The End Of The Line and one of the band’s greatest masterpieces in a long time, Cyanide. Everything about that particular track comes straight from the heart of the thrash metal pioneers.
In contrast to those who aren’t completely convinced by this album as a proper comeback, others can appreciate the light-hearted songs like The Day That Never Comes and The Unforgiven III. These two gravitate towards the group’s previous persona found on records like Reload.
The level of aggression is what makes this album different from the last couple. Each member is audibly in sync with pure ferocity, driving their anger to no end. The outro in All Nightmare Long would’ve never been on The Black Album or Load.
Luckily, it all ends on a high note with My Apocalypse. Coming full circle from the attention-grabbing opener, it reinstates the capacity of the band’s songwriting and the adrenaline-fueled determination behind it. Metallica tested their limit with this all-around impressive album and made a valuable contribution to the 21st century.
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