Kirk Hammett (guitar; ex-Exodus) then joined Metallica. .
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.
The following album "Ride The Lightning" was released in 1984. The band developed their music to become more aggressive and faster. The opening track "Fight Fire With Fire" has a melancholic intro part followed by the speeding guitar riff and fast back beat (1212 form). Although the tempo of the song is extremely fast, the instrumentation is very accurate. The album also included their first ballad "Fade To Black".
"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 "Battery" has a classical intro that would develop to the light speed guitar riff. There are even a mellow tune "Welcome Home" and a solemn instrumental number "Orion." Once again, this record has been the ultimate form of thrash metal. .
Soon after releasing "Master Of Puppets," Metallica was luckily given a chance to tour with Ozzy Osbourne. This was a very important event for Metallica because the tour was very huge and went across the world. Their popularity rose and they became more known band across the world.