Some will say they never left. Some will say they have not put out a decent album since The Black album. I am in the middle. As a die-hard Metallica fan since 1983; yes, I know this does date me, but from Cliff Burton’s death, to Jason Newstead’s arrival and departure, to Robert Trujillo’s arrival, this band HAS stood the test of time.

The main problem (other than no guitar solos and drop C tuning) with St. Anger, in my opinion, was Robert Trujillo’s “newness” to the band. The bass lines are much more integrated this time rather than having the last minute added sound to them. Bob Rock as producer was also another factor. Rock personally changed the outlook and direction of Metallica with the success of the Black album, his first with the band. Maybe it went to his head? Maybe it went to Metallica’s heads? Well, whatever happened, Rick Rubin, the new producer, kicked it all back into gear. Gone are the tinny sounds of St. Anger and the seven-plus minute song with ripping bridges and riffs are back. A change back to their beloved E tuning also helped Metallica reemerge into the band we all loved.

Overall, I believe the new album is up to snuff for Metallica…..their music prowess shines through again, and I personally am glad to hear it. I wish James would sing like he did before the Black Album, but you can’t have everything. You can hear how Robert Trujillo has made himself a member of the group and hearing Hetfield and Hammet solo again is literally music to my ears. Is it the best Metallica album ever? Certainly not. Is it one of their best? No. Is it a good album? Yes. Would I pay money to get it? Yes.