Analysis of Metallica

The history of Metallica began in 1981. A young heavy metal fan Lars Ulrich (drums) who had been listening to NWOBHM (New Wave Of British Heavy Metal) came up with the idea of having his own band. In the summer of 1981, Lars met with James Hetfield (guitar/vocals) who was a fan of NWOBHM and also of U.K. hardcore punk music. They quickly became friends and decided to name their band Metallica.

Lars and James next added Lioyd Grant (Guitar), Dave Mustaine (lead guitar/vocals), and Ron McGovney (bass) in the band. Their first materials were mostly written by Lars, James, and Dave. They tried to play as fast as they could, and their music eventually contained the mixture of heavy metal style riffs and the speed of anger that is influenced by U.K. hardcore punk music. They recorded their first demo “No Life Til

In 1983, Metallica released their first album “Kill ‘Em All.” Originally, this was to be called “Metal Up Your Ass,” but the record company refused to release an album with such a name. However, this was a real thrash metal record “with a sleeve that proclaimed ‘Bang that head that doesn’t bang.’” (Spicer 638) The lyrics were about typical metal topics – war, death, violence, and the party. However, the overall sound was totally fresh and massive to its audiences. This was dawn of new heavy metal.

In 1990, Metallica covered Queen’s song “Stone Cold Crazy” for Elektra’s “25th Anniversary” Album, and this track won another “Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 1991” (Hadland). The band’s self titled album “Metallica” was released in 1991. This album caused some controversy among the old fans because it had clean commercial songs and the style of music became totally different. Most of the songs were mid-paced tempo, the ballad “Nothing Else Matters” featured strings, with James actually singing instead of shouting, and there was no thrash metal tune in the album. However, the guitar and bass sound were even heavier than before and the drums succeeded in providing mood in the songs. Metallica were no longer a thrash metal band, but they started to explore a new style. Their new attitude brought them new fans and still appealed to old fans. The album sold over 10 million copies throughout the world.

“Master Of Puppets” was released in 1986, and this work is recognized as their masterpiece. This album hit “#29 on the U.S. charts and #47 in the U.K” (Spicer 638). Notably, this was accomplished without airplay of a video or a single. The sound was more technical and meaner than the previous releases. Most of the songs have strong riffs and massive bottom bass and rhythm, thoughtful harmony, and unexpected changes of tempo. The opening tune

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