It's grown on me and now I love it. The key for me was doing some riff exploration by learning a few of the tracks. It gave me a new appreciation. Some songs sound similar to previous stuff but when you realize that some of these songs are an homage to previous tracks, it makes perfect sense and is an evolution in itself.
I love it. I see it for what it is. I have no greediness with what I expect from them. They don't need to change the game anymore. They did that once already. Let them stay in their lane that they created. Embrace the fact that they're 60 years old and making new music. Not to mention still capable of playing live, unlike Motley Crue. This is a new album for the really young new fans. Just enjoy it. We know nothing will compare to the first 5 albums. And that's ok! It can still be a good album without expecting it to be as good or better than the first 5.
I disagree. I’m sick of the irrational bashing of the 90s period, because I honestly believe their creative zenith was the Bob Rock era of Black album through St. Anger. Don’t get me wrong, I am a diehard Metallica fan (they and Black Sabbath I consider my all-time favorites), but I hate how dismissive people are of anything that evolved beyond thrash. Hardwired was such a success imo because despite a few homages to their iconic works of the 80s, it actually had mostly new stuff that didn’t sound like anything they did before, yet it had the same feel, the same poetic, meaningful lyrics that came right from the heart.
@@UnchainedEruption couldn't agree more with you. I love the newer stuff honestly, I personally don't think anything after the black album is bad. Comment was more for the stuck up their own ass kinda Metallica fans, the ones that are selfish and decided to put them in this creative box that they can never get out of, otherwise they're sell outs. You and I are the same though lol
@@brentruvio6556 Yeah those kinds have always been there! Hard to believe today but there was a group of fans who were outraged even in 86 when Master of Puppets had come out, because they were opening for Ozzy on his Ultimate Sin tour and had shifted to a major label. They weren’t “cool” enough anymore. Maybe being too popular is a turn off for contrarians, but personally I love it that my favorite band is universally renowned. They began in the underground with an unrepentantly aggressive sound and attitude, and they became the biggest metal band in the world because they deserved it. They never needed to sell out because whatever they were doing, people came to them. I was in Target the day before this album came out, and I met a friendly fellow who was wearing a “72 Seasons” shirt from a special concert where they played all the new songs before the album dropped. By chance I happened to also be wearing my “...And Justice” t-shirt. We had an awesome moment there. It’s a great feeling when somebody else “gets it,” like they’re in on the awesome secret that only the bad asses of heavy metal know! I don’t think popularity should be a reason to like or dislike anything. I always judge a band on its own merits, and lo and behold, if they’re a name that’s stuck around, they usually have the merits! But I don’t ever presume anything has to be good because anybody else says so or vice versa I won’t assume something is bad because of its reputation either.
Some of the greatest rock albums ever were bashed by the so called professional critics. Keep listening over & over......... until you get it. Understanding the psyche of the bandmates completely that formulated the music is impossible, but once you begin to get very familiar with the feeling of sound which most people can relate if they are human, then clarity comes to the listener. There are albums from favorite bands I was extremely disappointed in until I kept playing them repetitively, then 💥. It is strange how that occurs. My advice is not to judge an album too quickly even after several listens. I am not referring to you guys. 🤘🎸💥
Absolutely relatable comments in many ways! It depends on whether you're expecting to be wowed and love it or just expecting it to be a solid record. I gave up on expecting the former, and enjoy it as the latter. There are some really cool parts of songs - some irritating arrangements where they linger on riffs and parts too long, or too many times, but there's a lot to enjoy. It's not a full glass, it's more of a half full glass, depends if you want to see it as half empty or half full.
Bro, Ain't no way that is an actual statement.. Death magnetic literally, from an objective standpoint has more complex song structure, more complex riffs, solos, composition.. I like 4-5 songs from 72 seasons, but in no way can it be considered too "interesting" since the whole album sounds very same-ish.. But hey, to each their own.
@@ShounenN complexity doesn’t make a song good, it still has to groove. Death Magnetic was trying to be Master of Puppets 2, but that is unobtainable. They lack the piss and vinegar at their ages to make that work. And thank god they didn’t put another Unforgiven on this album! It’s played out.
@@soulcraft_84 I semi-agree, but All Nightmare Long, That was just your life, My Apocalypse, Unforgiven 3, The Day That never comes, all great great songs featuring some of Metallica's most memorable moments and some great solos and harmonisations too. I like 72 seasons, but I feel like the hype is there just because it is fresh, I am certain most of these songs won't stick with you a month from now.. I still go back to those mentioned above and some songs from Hardwired.. (Am I Savage, Spit Out The Bone, Dream No More, Here Comes Revenge, Halo on Fire) I feel like the biggest issue with 72 seasons is that the songs are waaaay too drawn out and uninspired.. you can tell this clearly by realizing that the best part of every single song on that album is the second half.. So the first half is pretty much filler before the real thing comes and that can sometimes be underwhelming..
This is an amalgamation of the last two albums but they’re actually in fighting shape. It’s the most inspired album of theirs since the black album yet still managed to re-invent. If it happens to be their last album, it is a victory lap.
I personally think it’s a step down from Hardwired. I already find myself skipping 4-5 songs on this album where as Hardwired I skip maybe 2. Also this is easily the most phoned in performance by Kirk ever.
Everyone seems to be making fun of my favorite glam rockers Steel Panther ... But the good thing is that they don't give a shit about what Metallica or any other thrash metal bands do ... Because they are kings of the genre in their own right ...
A thoughtful review. The best I've come across. I agree with you, especially regarding the deja vu feeling when listening to this record. It's a pity because when one listens to them in their earlier career, one knows that they are capable of greater heights in terms of creativity.
Good review, On the money. & I only heard 4 songs off "72 Seasons" & haven't gone back for seconds. Would I give the rest of the songs a chance? Sure, but wouldn't go out of my way to hear them.
My biggest problem with Metallica from St. Anger onward is the subject matter. They use to have dramatic themes like Phantom Lord, The Four horseman and Creeping Death etc. Now its all sounds like a therapy session.
It's the exact opposite, dude. St. Anger was the last album where Metallica truly just poured out what was within, and that stuff makes the best music. Fade to Black is one of their most legendary songs and that came from Kirk and James' isolation from being away from home for so much of the year. Loneliness bred depression, and Fade to Black was born from a desire to express that. They used to sing about dark, depressing themes because it was what they really felt. It hits the hardest when it came from a real place, when the music was made because the emotions had to be let out, as opposed to manufacturing an album for the sake of making one. Death Magnetic's biggest flaw in my book was that it tried too hard to have "edgy" "metal" themes and lyrics, and consequently it felt a little less authentic. That shit may have been fine for the relatively more simplistic songs they wrote as teenagers in the Kill Em All days, when they were just trying to be the most extreme heavy metal band in their little underground niche, but they've been around for decades and have matured significantly as songwriters in the time since.
I struggle with Iron Maiden and Metallica now. I barely listen to the last 2 Iron Maiden albums and I'm not excited about the new Metallica album after how quickly I stopped listening to Hardwired. I still can't believe it's been 7 years already. I liked the singles for Hardwired a lot more than the singles for 72 Seasons so I haven't heard much to get excited about, and like you I hate long albums. 35-45 minutes is the sweet spot. Maybe I should buy the new Metallica but only listen to 1/2 of it for the first 3 years, then in 3 years start listening to the other half of it so it will seem like a new album every 3 years instead of a long bloated album to slog through every 7-8 years
this is way better than the last Maiden album. this guy complains totally on the video but yet praised Senjutsu which for me wasn't even Iron Maiden after all
@@arturoalmazan5262 I'm going to get the album and I'll approach it with an open mind. I think Senjutsu was better than Book of Souls. But I hate those fucking long albums too.
@Greg Baltzer I just didn't think Maiden sounded like the old days when they put out heavy album after heavy album. honestly I like this Metallica album more than book of souls and Senjutsu combined
Spot on review. That’s three in a row records from Metallica that are just boring. I loved their first four liked the next three and the rest are meh. Where are the choruses, they can’t seem to write a hook anymore and they used to be great at that.
You are so right. The album suffers from the following problems: 1. The material is melodically undercomplex. Most of the songs have the same chord progressions and James sings the same note 90% of the time throughout the whole album. 2. The mix is exhausting. The drums are way too saturated, too distorted and just exhausting to listen to. 3. The songs are a long-winded repetition of a certain vocabulary, which the band has now simply told off.
Plus, the solos are all stock blues licks that are interchangeable. Huge disappointment. Why didn’t anyone tell Kirk he needed to write real solos? They so badly need a producer. Also most of the drum beats are stock. So boring and distracting. By the time I get to Insmorata, I want to scream because it’s the same stock beat. Amd the drums are so friggin loud its incredibly distracting. Songs SOUND long. Everything sounds uninspiring. This is like the 2nd side of hardwired minus Spit-nearly all filler. They need a producer-a real one!
If you're waiting for Metallica to re write musical history again you'll be waiting a while. For a bunch of 60 years olds I'd say 72 seasons a great effort and worth the listen.
It definitely felt like a lot of the same upon first listen. The sweet spot I was able to find was the vinyl version (better dynamic range) and putting a "rock" eq on. Something I would not normally ever recommend. That gets the snare out of the way a little and gives more access to Rob's bass. The other thing I decided to do was to mix up the track order. The end of the album takes a turn, and injecting those songs between the mid-tempo ones that sound similar helps to change up the flow of whole-album listening. It's weird that they've struggled so much with production, you'd think they'd have access to the best of the best but maybe that's just not what they want to make.
Metallica played a huge part on my teenage years musicall discovery in the mid late 80s so this is a band whose sound is engraved in my brain and this album resonates with that kid that always had is walkman and a mix tape with at least one Metallica song in it like no song of theirs had been able to do in the last 30 years. Could be faster but the guys are like 200 years old so give them a break. This album is amazing.
I agree with most of what you said here. Plenty of really cool riffs and I love how they approached almost a desert/stoner rock vibe at times especially on the last track. The production as you mentioned is just terrible. I don't understand how a band that has unlimited resources always seems to fall flat with their production. There are bands with a 1/100th of their budget that put out better sounding more dynamic albums. Another big issue I have is that almost every song has the same basic arrangement so it makes even the better songs sound so formulaic and generic after a while. I also really enjoy a good portion of Load and Reload. Even those albums had a good variety throughout the tracklist and didn't just seem copy/pasted from one song to the next.
You're not the only one struggling. When the single Lux Aeterna came out I wasn't sold. As the subsequent singles came out I warmed to it a bit. With the whole album coming out I found myself giving it repeated spins, trying to pinpoint something but not quite getting.....there. My current assessment is that it sounds like a thrashier Load/Reload. The fire on alot of the tracks is there but it doesn't seem to go anywhere. I'm still listening to it; for me personally it's the most scrutinized album by them.
But I do like the fact there's not much "variety" on the album. Don't get me wrong, I even love LOAD, so I'm all for variety in music, but I just like the fact that this new album sounds to me more like the follow up to the black album than anything else. It's consistent and well produced, they are not forcing themselves to be super original but I think it works for this one. Sure you can say that some songs could be shortened and that Kirk's solo are only supporting the songs without adding much to them, but all in all I can listen to this album from start to finish without problem and without being bored. It's not that each song is a masterpiece, but the quality is constant and it keeps my interest all along. I think it's a great album.
The problem is that in the Black Album you have a lot of variety: classic metal songs (Enter Sandman, Sad But True), thrashier songs (Holier Than Thou, Through the Never) and power ballads (The Unforgiven, Nothing Else Matters), in 72 Seasons we don't have it. Even in albums with less variety (let's say Kill 'Em All), the production has his own personality. With 72 Seasons the production sounds like a continuation of Hardwired. And the production it's really good in terms of detail and power, but we don't have the personality and character that we had on the albums from 1983 to 1997. I've fairly enjoyed the album and I give it a 7/10, but I don't see a continuation of the Black Album in a 2023 album that doesn't make the same effort to trim down the songs to the perfect length and put well written and understandable lyrics as his "brother" from 1991.
I really agree with all this. Major Metallica fan, but I'm struggling to even listen to this all the way through. It take sa lot out of you by the end of it.
Perfect review, my first Metallica album was Master when it first released. Then I bought Kill em all and Ride the Lightning and was hooked. To this day I think Justice was their finest work, their absolute peak. Black album was ok, I lost interest after that. This album, in my opinion is tired, rehashed and boring. I listened to the album on a walk also and shut it off at the end if the third song and put on Justice, lol. They need to retire
I don't think they should "retire" but they should retire as the producers. Also, write a song from start to finish before going in to record it rather than piece 50 pieces together with Protools while in the studio.
I see what you mean... I had these same thoughts when I was watching the release at the theaters. Everything felt the same, and they do nothing "new" per se. I wish it had some collaborations, some different instruments, and such... But, for whatever reason, when I played the actual record a few days later, I really enjoyed it. I think it is an amazing album, and I like it now. I see it as a statement of the band itself. There are references to Sabbath, other bands, and reference to Metallica itself. This might be their last record... I think. Great review!!!
I just gave it a first listen this morning and I would say all of the songs are solid. Some do stand out as better than others so time will tell which ones grow on me. My only negative criticism is that I would like to hear more dynamics like some acoustic guitar passages here and there. James voice is still great and overall production is great.
I like the energy on this one...but there are some moments that I feel like we're just waiting for the next change to come up. I am also aware that I am bringing baggage to the listen that's like 30+ years old. Could be that this is Metallica's final form??? Like, ACDC has been in their final form since 1980. And, you gotta love them for that.
@@Strugen. Nobody complains more about Metallica fans complaining about Metallica fans than Metallica f...oh, never mind. @ John But seriously, OF COURSE Metallica fans will be the ones complaining about Metallica, as they're the only ones who care enough to notice!
@@stanleykendallsinvertednipple releasin another master puppets album def woudnt b borin....this new one is borin...which sounds like there last 2 albums..rubbish. repeated riffs,long tracks,same structure/solos. Only new metallica fans luv it.
I love the first 3 Cliff Albums. Justice and Black Album are pretty good , Death Magnetic is Great and I think Load is highly underrated . I am gonna listen to this and report back
I like it. I started listening to Metallica around the release of Ride the Lightening. So I'll say that Master and Ride are my favorite records. I don't listen to the Black album anymore but, quite liked it at the time. My least favorite Metallica record is Reload and that hasn't changed with the release of 72 Seasons. I like this record more than Hardwired and I think that it's fits for me in with Death Magnetic which I like. There are 12 songs on the record and I would say that I'm enjoying 8 of the 12. That may change. I am a Metallica fan so maybe I am just happy to be hearing something new from the band but, as of now about 12 to 15 listens in I'm happy with it.
I love the album. Every single song hit me hard on first listen, sonically and emotionally. That said, I respect your review. No record is for everyone. For me, this is exactly what I’ve wanted from this band since ‘Load’. I feel like it perfectly fuses every era of the band, and has little hints of their future direction.
I do hear a little Load, but Load is perfect in production, writing, arranging and variety. 72 has poor production, badly arranged songs, all the same song structures, stick riffs, stock drumming, drums are way to loud, solos are all cut and paste blues licks, etc. 72 is more like the filler on side 2 of Hardwired and not even close to Load in any meaningful way. Just my opinion.
Well I believe the different tempo changes represent the 72 seasons ,or the differemt eras of the band over the years. Whats interesting to me is how they patch work different ideas together to form song structures !
It just came out. I’m in no rush to lose a new Metallica album. When I feel the time is right, I’ll give it a thorough listen. But the tracks they released as singles have been pretty good so far. I loved Hardwired, it was in the same league as their 80s trinity of Lightning through Justice without being too backwards looking like Death Magnetic was. I’m definitely looking forward to 72 Seasons. Right now I’ve been really into Megadeth’s recent The Sick, the Dying, and the Dead!, which I’ve only heard a couple of times so far.
Ugh…I get the struggle and it seems like a struggle the past 3 releases for me. I feel like I should love this album. You mentioned fatigue, and it felt fatiguing to listen to it. I’m hoping a few more listens may help. But, I didn’t feel this way with the new Megadeth or just listening to the first few Overkill songs from their latest.
Personally, I think Reload is one of the best rock albums of all time. I could listen to that album over and over forever, and it would never get old. To me, that was Metallica's peak.
I went from thinking it was just decent upon first listen and wondering if I would even buy it (I just streamed it on RUclips) to really liking it upon the 4th listen and ordering it on vinyl. It's a real grower. Yes could be better, but I like the creativity of the songs more than some on Hardwired. Sometimes I wish the new stuff had more of a Ride the Lightning mix instead of sounding so clean and crisp. Sometimes it can come across as sterile. A few songs are samey sounding, but still good. I think Death Magnetic is my latest fave.
I heard the whole thing at my local store and I found myself bobbing my head along with the songs. Maybe it was the nicer sound system. I haven't listened to this on my computer or car yet but I enjoyed the album. That said, I didn't find myself going back to Hardwired or Death Magnetic after I got them a whole lot. I need to give this one some more spins.
Last friday was weird. Overkill and Metallica are two bands I love but this time the Overkill album is really a problem for Metallica because both came out on the same day. Production, drums (the cymbals!!), Blitz fantastic vocal performance, very good guitar solos, melodies and grooves. And the songs on the Overkill album are so creativ and diverse. Listen to it for the ninth time and love it so much. On 72 seasons on the other hand are many things I don't like. Alice in chains like choruses etc. But what is terror to my ears are this petmanent snare rolls. One good song. Lux aeterna.
I was very disappointed when The Black album first came out, but it eventually grew on me and now in the older version of me, I really like it. I don't think this is Metallica's worst album, but probably in the lower middle for me. (believe it or not, I like their St. Anger album - except for the percussion sound, what the hell was Lars thinking). Maybe this new album will grow on me eventually. One thing about Metallica is every album is different, which I like - even though they have some mis-steps. There are some metal groups that really don't change their sound much. Overkill has their new Scorched Earth album out now in 2023, which I really like, but sounds like most any other album they have put out. But because it is good, I don't mind.
I thought I would amend my previous comment. I am a blogger and today I have been listening to the album (very loudly with a buttkicker on my office chair) while writing. I have found myself bobbing my head to the music, so apparently, I am enjoying the music (which I am). I love the powerful sound and now that I am comprehending the lyrics, I have a better understanding of what Metallica was trying to achieve.
I agree. The snare tone is kind of missing the signature Lars thing. The sample used in there is pretty overwhelming. In addition to having the usual Lars explosive there, there's not that "whiplash" in the background that's kinda on top of everything.
The ones who have the wildest expectations for Metallica are their fans. I, as a fan, had to strip that back while play 72 Seasons on multiple playthroughs. My first playthrough hyped with expectations and that can ruin the experience. Once those were removed, I found this was the first album by Metallica I hadn’t felt compelled to skip a song since Load being the last album I could run through multiple times without skipping. The album is suppose to be digested as one cohesive unit.
It's a fair review, I get it. There's songs on the album I don't like at all. I think that they could have trimmed this down to 50 minutes or so. I don't like Inamorata...there, I said it. That being, said I think the band is going in a new direction, and I do like what I'm hearing. I think if they could figure out how to shorten the length of their songs it would be a good thing.
I always agree with the trimming when it comes to the last 3 metallica albums, but this one?! bull crap. there isn't one piece of music that is out of place on this one. And sure you might not like Inamorata, but you must respect the fact that everyone else loves it.
@@uzisuicide7021 Exactly what I said. of course it's fine to not like a song. And usually I would agree with trim the fat, not on this record, the riffarama parts are insane, the best part of the album
Rock stars do not make their best music whilst they are doing therapy, drinking smoothies, and meditating. They _say_ it's their best work yet. It isn't. They do their best work when they are on the edge and almost out of control. For all of the good things you can say about this album, it doesn't make your hair stand on end because it was made by men who are in their 60's and have matured beyond the raw emotions that _did_ make your hair stand on end.
I like your review. You have some valid critiques with the lack of variety and the snare issues. That being said, I love this album. I do get tired of listening to people compare all of their albums to the first 4 albums. They are a different band and they are 30-40 years older than they were. I, as a Metallica fan of 30+ years don't want to hear them try to make another master of puppets or ride the lightening. Those were amazing albums. No album, ever will hold up to those in most fan's eyes. There will never be another MoP, AJFA, or RL. So I don't want them to try. I want to hear new things from them. I want them to take risks. And I think they tried with this album. Looking back at death magnetic, where I think they did try to get back to the 80's sound. It was a good album but nothing that just blew me away. Same with hardwired. Honestly I think 72 Seasons is the best album since reload and maybe since the black album. There are a few duds for me on this album but overall I like almost all the songs and really like at least 7 of them.
I’ve really enjoyed it so far. It was heavier than I expected and I know what you mean regarding perhaps needing more variety. However…I was disappointed there was no Sabbath Sunday last week discussing the new Live Evil SDE😀. I’ve already pre-ordered it. I just get too excited for these Sabbath box sets. Perhaps Born again will arrive this year along with Tony Martin?
Always remember that things that you like or dislike are 100% subjective and your mood is going impact that. I, personally, like MOST of 72 Seasons. I did notice some of the distortion you mentioned, it's faint, but, it's definitely present. As a drummer I really love a lot of Lars's work. Also, I think they choose speed songs to counter arguments that Metallica can't play metal. Thank you for your opinion.
I fall squarely into the category of "old guy who thinks they fell off a cliff after Justice." I hated the Black album and Load, Reload etc were even worse. I wasn't too impressed with Death Magnetic or Hardwired either. BUT for some reason, I'm digging 72 Seasons a lot more than I ever expected to. I love the greater use of harmony guitars, I love the Sabbathy vibes, and the NWoBHM/Thin Lizzy vibes... is it as good as the first four? Of course, not, not even close. But for me, it's their best work since Justice. I woke up this morning with the chorus of "You Must Burn" in my head - and that hasn't happened with any Metallica release since Justice. I think that says something. now, whether it has staying power over the coming months remains to be seen. But for now, after 4 or 5 listens, I'm liking a lot of it.
@@will-love-lvx Agree that definitely parts of it are phoning it in, for sure. It's by no means consistent, or anything like it. But I'm find that when it's good, it's REALLY good.
I'm a little torn on this album. On the one hand, I definitely do like it. I don't think it's a bad album, and I think anyone who says otherwise is probably lying or at least exaggerating. It's listenable and enjoyable. At the same time though, it's undeniably not a great album either. It does not hold a candle to their 80s stuff. I listened again to Hardwired today, as well as St. Anger, both albums that I have always felt hold up just as strongly to Metallica's best stuff. I was blown away by Hardwired when I first heard it, I have consistently had that same feeling upon each revisit, and now after having listened to 72 Seasons, I still feel that way today. It is absolutely as good as the best of their discography, and lyrically is arguably the best album to date. 72 Seasons does not make me feel the same way. Not only does it not immediately grab you and make you go, "Holy shit, wow," but it also feels like I have to make an effort to find the goodness and like it. I think that's telling. The only song on this album that actually feels great, worthy of Metallica's best stuff is the final track Inamorata. That one does give me that sense of, "Wow, this is something special." It's the only song on this album that does that for me, whereas on Hardwired nearly every song had that same impact. Now, all that said, I have to ask, is it even a good idea to compare this album to their other works? As one music critic put it, this album is sonically somewhere between the Black album and Reload, if those albums had come out right after Kill 'Em All. I read that and thought that's exactly what I was feeling. A great way to word it. Now, that doesn't mean the songwriting on this album is actually as good as that on Black or Reload, but in terms of vibe at least, it has more in common with their 90s output than their 80s output, so my point is, maybe we are mistaken to be comparing this to the And Justice For All era in the first place. However, I don't think these songs are anywhere near as good as the masterpieces on Load and Reload either. I honestly think 72 Seasons might be their weakest album, but that doesn't mean it's a bad album. I honestly enjoyed all the songs on here, even if objectively most of them are pretty average. An average metal album only seems worse than it is, because frankly everything else they've done has been perfection. We hold them to a higher standard. To get into specific critiques, I think the album could have benefitted from more dynamics, more variety, and better flow. There isn't even a single ballad on here. There weren't any clean parts, let alone perhaps some acoustic guitar. Almost all of the songs are on the longer side, paced at a jogging mid-tempo. The thrashy sprint of Lux Aeterna is the exception to the rule here. I don't think a lot of the riffs are all that great. There's a lot of bog standard, frankly kind of boring riffs, though there are just as many if not more good riffs in there too. Likewise, there are some moments here and there where we get a lovely melody line or harmonized part, but I still feel like those elements are somewhat lacking. The songwriting on Death Magnetic was generally to a higher standard.
Ι liked it a lot and I think it gives me a marginally better taste than Hardwired, but most of all they don't sound as pretentious as they did from B.A. and onwards. The only problem I have with it is the lazy drumming of Lars and the simple solos of Kirk. Those 2 could have tried more
I feel the same. Metallica at their best will make you go 'woah' with intricate heart felt acoustics or a what was that? reaction. But this album has none of that. Having said that the vocals sound great and some of the songs are really good. The true test like all Metallica music is how will it sound live mixed in with their back catalogue.
I like the album .Metallica always trys to be different .AC DC is just AC DC if they were making a new album i already know what its gonna sound like lol .. I understand what you said about variety ..Going from Creeping Death to Fade to black is a cool change and vibe ..I think they feel they been there done that and keep trying to move forward in a different way ..This album has long intros and endings , done on purpose thats them changing it up i guess ..We all want Masper of puppets part 2 maybe some day ..Stay well
I think a DolbyAtmos video would be great! An in depth video on audiophile tech would be awesome as well and could rack up views for sure !! Great video. I enjoyed “72 Seasons” as a whole. It’s a solid album. Not as good as “Hardwired” but better than “Death Magnetic” in my opinion!
Poor Metallica. They are in the precarious position where if a new release is too much of a change they get slammed for that and if they continue with the present direction they get equally criticized. From an old guy who was there from the beginning I have to say I'm somewhat glad to see them still in the "pummel the listener" phase. But there is an element of fatigue when taking in the album as a whole. I've always thought that other things added into songs (acoustic,slower tempos,etc) help give an album what this one is lacking-dynamics. So color me initially impressed for the mighty Met not "wimping out",but as with the two preceding albums,I'll probably admire it from afar.
I don't expect these legacy bands like Maiden, Megadeth, or Metallica to put out another energy laden release as they did back in the day. That would be foolish. I won't slag on them or put them down. They deserve by this point to do whatever they want. I always tell my kids that Metallica started out as an underground metal head garage type band. I miss that. I find Myself returning to 'Kill 'Em All' more than anything they've done. I do have a very soft spot for the 'Black Album'. 'Hardwired' was really very decent. This one might be, too. Whether I ever check this one out or not, I have to credit Metallica with teaching me how to think for myself and believe in me along with other bands like Megadeth and Testament. Whether I like what they do or not, they are metal royalty in my book, I just feel there is so much music and so little time. Thanks for your thoughts on this, John. It's appreciated.
Very well said ! I love Metallica, but Hardwired and 72 Seasons are way too similar and totaĺy forgettable. And to point out I really like Death Magnetic cause to me there is a lot of variety and I can distinguish the songs there. Also I think it’s way too long to not being very repetitive for both Hardwired and 72 seasons.
I am waiting to get it on RSD this weekend. Your review gives me excitement because I really liked Death Magnetic and Hardwired…Metallica is going to struggle with themselves as they advance in age/career just due to the nature of their brand of Music. I completely understand your point of fatigue with these latest records. I only listen to these on full blast but I’m ok with that for now. Definitely curious how they will adjust their sound however in the future.
I think they've tried to make an album with a certain feel, and have dropped the ball in terms of quality. I don't even know if it's better than Beyond Magnetic.
Yeah, I don't understand the "the dudes are in their 60s" comments. It's like a pass for creating music that's not up to par with their earlier music, when their are tons of bands the same age that are still creating some of their best, even faster/heavier music eg. Exodus, Kreator, Sodom, Voivod, Testament, Anthrax, Metal Church, Corrosion of Conformity, and even bands like Napalm Death, Obituary, Benediction are still killing it with great music. Traditional metal/hard rock bands like Satan, Judas Priest, Armored Saint, Scorpions are also still making potent music. Age means nothing, it comes down to passion. I think Metallica rest on their laurels now. It's like they think "It's good enough and people will love it regardless, because we're Metallica."
@@James-hh1lq Yes thank you for stating that. I’m tired of people saying well they are old so just appreciate it, no….. if you love an NFL team and the QB is playing like ass you don’t say well “he used to be good so let’s keep him on the field and just appreciate that he’s out there”. Testament delivers every single record and some Metallica fans just can’t accept and will defend them like their favorite political party or something. This album is just meh, not the worst thing I’ve heard but also not exciting, I say 5/10. Kirks solos on the other hand 2/10. Absolutely laughable!
I feel exactly the same. I love Metallica so much that I wanted to be really good, I keep giving these guys the benefit of the doubt. But it's just hard, they're not there anymore. In general, I think Lars is dragging the whole band down. Jeff still has the passion and creativity, Kirk would be good if the whole band is creating something at a good level. Robert, he's so talented and needs to be more involved in the creativity process. I still love them, for what they've done, for the great memories. Even though I'm just liking ok the new stuff.
I love it! I haven't been that enthusiastic about a new Metallica album since The Black Album. This is full of good energy and to me it sounds right. The solos are great too (did you notice the homage to Speed King in Screaming Suicide?). It's a long album, and yet every time I listen to it, it goes by very fast. I'm a big fan of the 3 first albums, Justice is great, The Black album was exciting at first (but I can't really listen to it anymore), and to me the rest of their catalogue was very uneven, there was always something bothering me (the sound, the songs, the vibe,...). But this one is what I consider a true return to form! Now, don't tell me you expected Lars to groove :-) The guy's fantastic at what he does, but he's no Ian Paice (or Peter Criss for that matter!). The album does make me want to bang my head all the way through, and that's always a good sign :-) Hope it'll click with you and you'll be able to enjoy it. Cheers.
I agree with you. I can remember watching the movie Eddie and the Cruisers part 2. Eddie is talking to his guitarist about people can go into the bar and hear the guitarist playing. It nice to hear and enjoy, but once they leave, they forget all about it. I think the same remains for Metallica's latest albums It's nice to hear, but nothing really stands out. I don't think that Metallica will ever be the same and create memorable great music to listen decades later. To bad!
It's interesting because I really, needed to try to like St Anger , and some of the stuff is groovy but definitely easily my least favorite. I never thought I'd see the day where I had to 'try' to like a metallica record. Death magnetic was definitely a relief and a huge step up and man u was hooked when it first come out. I can barely listen to it today. Same went for Hsrdwired, I thought it was an even major improvement on Death magnetic but I don't care to listen to it so much now. 72 seasons , I'm back to trying to like it. Wayyy better than st anger but for whatever reason its just not grabbing me like I wish it would. I want to love this record, here's hoping it will happen. I wonder how people would have reacted if this came out just after the Load albums ?
It’s the album that should have followed Load / Reload had those not had such a critical mauling and they hadn’t almost imploded making St Anger - which before James went to rehab was trying to embrace the no solos approach of nu metal and trying to recapture their early sound. 72 Seasons is underpinned by their 90s sound with their pre-Black, first four album sound. Definitely lacks a big track or two like Hardwired had Moth Into A Flame. I think it hangs together better as an album since anything since Load.
I really like the 72 seasons album. There are a few songs I don’t care for, like You Must Burn, and Crown of Barbed Wire. It would be better if those were left off. But Lux Æterna and Inamorata are fantastic and great additions to their song catalog. I’m 53 years old and I’ve been a Metallica fan since 1985. Like you I thought they sold out with the Black Album. Yet, over the years I’ve come appreciate their 1990’s stuff. For instance over two and half decades ago I hated Carpe Diem Baby, but it has in the past few years become on of my favorite Metallica songs. So our tastes and opinions can change over time. I liked Death Magnetic in that it signaled the bands return to their 80’s era thrash sound. Yet I didn’t think it was great. I’ve come to appreciate the death theme more though in the years since my wife passed away. Hard Wired was better but still not great, though Atlas Rise is a fantastic song and is one of my favorites it means a lot to me. Yet 72 Seasons, for the most part I think is their best effort since Reagan was president. I’ve listened to it a lot over the last eight months, I love most of it. Inamorata could have been titled My Friend of Misery II (or reprise), it is excellent and one that folks will still appreciate forty years from now. In fact I think in forty more years Metallica itself and and most of us Gen X 80’s era fans will be gone. Yet folks will look back and think this was one of the best MetallicA albums ever.
Metallicas shows going forward will still feature mainly songs from the first 5 albums. That’s what people still want to hear from them live. After the hype of this album is over, a 72 seasons song will become a ‘rare’ on their set list Im sure.
I enjoyed the album, but I must admit I to miss when they had melodies or accoustic guitar on the songs. But don't worry about it. You don't need to like every song by a band or even every album. I don't enjoy all the work but I enjoy enough of Metallica's catalogue and that is enough for me. Oh on the drumming I can listen to all their songs but the drumming on St Anger and Death Magnetic albums make my ear drums hurt and the songs hard listening.
I 100% agree with your statements also on the previous albums, it seems we have a similar experience throughout the last 50plus years. I conclude that 72s suffers from the same symptoms as HW and DM (which was of course still a big relief from the previous 3 records), few cool riffs plus a lot of dull and uninspired riffing with Lars’ ever and ever repetitive half beats. If I tried to analyse the root cause I would blame the Tuning Room. This trial of James spontaneously play any riff and Lars tuning in again and again with cameras and mics always open results in the same uninspired stuff you will automatically come up if your guitar playing was inspired by 80s Thrash. In the past they put their own work into it individually on their riff tapes and tried to impress each other. That’s not happening anymore but you’ve got to put work and time into it to become innovative. The highly praised Inamorata is the best example. Take the outstanding sound away provided by outstanding budget and what remains is an endless repetition of the same three note pattern plus a stolen riff from Lenny Kravitz … I’m happy for any new Metallica album but it’s just shy of a huge opportunity and we might not have too many shots left
I absolutely agree with you. I put it on the other day and I could not get past the fourth song, I turned it off. It is good, it is just them repeating themselves all over again. It is good, it is just generic. I told someone it is campbells chicken noodle soup to my Mom's homemade chicken soup. They are overrated at this point, I personally think Megadeth has always had better musicianship anyways. Lars and James can't do anything new.
It's just ok. I would rank it somewhere in the middle of the discography. I like it better than the 90's garbage, for sure. The first four albums are the only albums I really ever listen to, mainly Puppets and Justice. I did think Death Magnetic was pretty cool. That was my favorite after the first four classics. I'll give 72 Seasons some more time. Maybe it will grow on me...slightly.
I've not interest to check it out. The last album I enjoyed was St. Anger. The DVD rehearsal room version of that has a better sounding snare. But, I like the album version of St. Anger just fine too. I've gotten used to the snare I reckon. I also liked the Load/Reload albums. Love the first four albums all the way through. Black album kicks tons of arse. I seen them in #LubbockTX in 2019, it was ok, but didn't compare to seeing them on tour for Justice when I was in the 7th grade. I later seen the tour for the Black album as well. Both great gigs. The sound systems bands use in this day and age is not to my liking.
Do you want heavy!!!! Well then you buy overkills new :scorched... Fuckin amazing!!!! Been around since 1981 and they fuckin delivers!!!! Listen to fever.. Gooddamm.. And: know here name... The riff.. The drums.. Record of the year!! If you into heavy music!!!!
Agree with pretty much everything you said. It didn’t capture me first listen. The magic isn’t there like the first four albums. I actually prefer death magnetic and hard wired. The new one sounds warmed over. Give me 8 songs and about 40 minutes.
Really hard album to get through. The production is really dry and lifeless, drums are too loud and Lars is pretty much playing the same thing over and over. James used to do vocal melodies that you could hum and they would be their own tune. Since St. Anger his vocal melodies feel forced and unnatural plus the lyrics aren't much better
I thought it was great production and the first album since the black album that I would say is excellent. Every band has a golden period they never get back to.
Totally agree with this, plus the songs drag for too long, like there's stuff that was great for a minute or two but not 4.. or in instances they do some cool things and cut it short.. weird weird decisions
Not too mention the solos are all cur and paste blues licks. I agree with your points. I’m shocked more people aren’t talking about the bad drum mix and the stock drumming.
Death magnetic was it that was their last good punch in my opinion hardwired and 72 seasons is not very good their trying to go for the kids now it feels like that's what their trying to cater to which is cool u know but not my thing
I’m in the Cliff era too and think Metallica should remix …And Justice for All, like Rush did with Vapor Trails. Metallica (Black) album was okay and I do like LuLu.
Don't find anything new or creative on this album, I think that this is trying to please the fans with a return to a 80'a feel, but it's not exiting, I compare this to the last two Iron Maiden albums both of which were fresh and creative but still heavy and the signature Maiden sound, two of their best albums in the winter of their career. Metallica are living on past glories, think of it this way, if this was a debut album you would not be impressed. I'm not anti Metallica fan but they have not moved on, maybe they can't and the creativity is not there.
They’re never gonna make something as good as their first four but wish they would leave at least 4-5 tracks off the last three releases. It’s not terrible but not something I’ll probably reach for after the hype dies.
Any band once they reach a certain age is inevitably going to settle into their established style. You have to be young I think to truly break new ground and push the envelope. Part of it too is the culture of today is far more retro compared to the culture in the 80s, 90s, and 00s was much more forward-looking, much more about rebelling against, breaking away from what came before. Since the 10s it’s been more about remaking/rebooting the past, that is just generally what seems to sell now. The biggest problem though is the fake Metallica “fans” who could never look past the “holy trinity” of Lightning, Puppets, and Justice. It is beyond pathetic that you need to “defend” what is inarguably not just one of the greatest heavy metal albums of all time, but also one of the greatest hard rock albums ever, period. Not only is the Black Album an absolute juggernaut that transcends even the rock genre, and something that put the band on the map in the same tier as Guns ‘N’ Roses has been after Appetite, but it also spearheaded a new wave of similar more pop-oriented releases from all the major “underground” extreme bands of the 80s. Megadeth followed with a release of perfect records from Countdown through Cryptic Writings; Metallica reached their creative pinnacle of their career with Load, Reload, and S & M 1; Slayer released South of Heaven and Seasons in the Abyss; Sepultura had Roots Bloody Roots, etc. Look, not many people are a bigger fan of Metallica’s 80s works than me. I lived and breathed Metallica in college, screaming the lyrics as I walk the streets. They’re maybe the biggest reason I started playing guitar. I use a lot of Kirk Hammet licks in my songs. But I am so fed up of the b.s. internet narrative that Metallica ended in 1989, or 86, or whenever. No, shut up, Load and Reload are equally brilliant yet go in a completely different direction with an awesome blend of 70s heavy metal, 90s alternative, and even some country, all while still being as heavy and soulful as the band is known for. St. Anger is probably the biggest misunderstood heavy metal album ever. It fucking rocks. Okay, it isn’t some arena pleaser, but if you read the name, why would you expect it to be? You have to be in a low place in your life to appreciate the album, and it is still to date their heaviest release, bar none. That’s not to say there aren’t a few criticisms that would be valid of it (although trashing the snare drum isn’t one of them) i.e. the lack of solos and some songs could’ve been shorter perhaps, but overall it is imo their last true album in the sense that they really tried to do something out there. It’s a travesty that it got its reputation and ever since Metallica have clung closely to the familiar sound they think their “fans” want.
You´re not the only one struggled with 72 seasons
Hetfield sounds really damn good on it. Great album.
I think the standard tuning doesn't sound heavy enough, at least for me
It's grown on me and now I love it. The key for me was doing some riff exploration by learning a few of the tracks. It gave me a new appreciation. Some songs sound similar to previous stuff but when you realize that some of these songs are an homage to previous tracks, it makes perfect sense and is an evolution in itself.
@@ITGuy1970 5 good songs, 2 mediocre songs and 5 boring songs = 72 seasons. Hardwired has at least 8 good songs.
I love it. I see it for what it is. I have no greediness with what I expect from them. They don't need to change the game anymore. They did that once already. Let them stay in their lane that they created. Embrace the fact that they're 60 years old and making new music. Not to mention still capable of playing live, unlike Motley Crue. This is a new album for the really young new fans. Just enjoy it. We know nothing will compare to the first 5 albums. And that's ok! It can still be a good album without expecting it to be as good or better than the first 5.
Great comment.
I disagree. I’m sick of the irrational bashing of the 90s period, because I honestly believe their creative zenith was the Bob Rock era of Black album through St. Anger. Don’t get me wrong, I am a diehard Metallica fan (they and Black Sabbath I consider my all-time favorites), but I hate how dismissive people are of anything that evolved beyond thrash. Hardwired was such a success imo because despite a few homages to their iconic works of the 80s, it actually had mostly new stuff that didn’t sound like anything they did before, yet it had the same feel, the same poetic, meaningful lyrics that came right from the heart.
@@UnchainedEruption couldn't agree more with you. I love the newer stuff honestly, I personally don't think anything after the black album is bad. Comment was more for the stuck up their own ass kinda Metallica fans, the ones that are selfish and decided to put them in this creative box that they can never get out of, otherwise they're sell outs. You and I are the same though lol
@@brentruvio6556 Yeah those kinds have always been there! Hard to believe today but there was a group of fans who were outraged even in 86 when Master of Puppets had come out, because they were opening for Ozzy on his Ultimate Sin tour and had shifted to a major label. They weren’t “cool” enough anymore. Maybe being too popular is a turn off for contrarians, but personally I love it that my favorite band is universally renowned. They began in the underground with an unrepentantly aggressive sound and attitude, and they became the biggest metal band in the world because they deserved it. They never needed to sell out because whatever they were doing, people came to them. I was in Target the day before this album came out, and I met a friendly fellow who was wearing a “72 Seasons” shirt from a special concert where they played all the new songs before the album dropped. By chance I happened to also be wearing my “...And Justice” t-shirt. We had an awesome moment there. It’s a great feeling when somebody else “gets it,” like they’re in on the awesome secret that only the bad asses of heavy metal know! I don’t think popularity should be a reason to like or dislike anything. I always judge a band on its own merits, and lo and behold, if they’re a name that’s stuck around, they usually have the merits! But I don’t ever presume anything has to be good because anybody else says so or vice versa I won’t assume something is bad because of its reputation either.
Some of the greatest rock albums ever were bashed by the so called professional critics. Keep listening over & over......... until you get it. Understanding the psyche of the bandmates completely that formulated the music is impossible, but once you begin to get very familiar with the feeling of sound which most people can relate if they are human, then clarity comes to the listener. There are albums from favorite bands I was extremely disappointed in until I kept playing them repetitively, then 💥. It is strange how that occurs. My advice is not to judge an album too quickly even after several listens. I am not referring to you guys. 🤘🎸💥
You won't struggle listening to Scorched by Over Kill. Just as old and still consistent.
Killer album.
same music they played for the last 49 years,no thanks
Overkill is by far the best of the 80's thrash bands still going today.
The vocals though 🗑
@@upinair4990 An Acquired Taste. Agreed. Up there with Exodus and Kreator
Absolutely relatable comments in many ways!
It depends on whether you're expecting to be wowed and love it or just expecting it to be a solid record.
I gave up on expecting the former, and enjoy it as the latter.
There are some really cool parts of songs - some irritating arrangements where they linger on riffs and parts too long, or too many times, but there's a lot to enjoy.
It's not a full glass, it's more of a half full glass, depends if you want to see it as half empty or half full.
You are so on point about this record. It's fatiguing for sure. I was hoping for a couple of slower groove metal songs
I think this is probably their most interesting album in a while. Death Magnetic and Hardwired were just okay to me.
Bro, Ain't no way that is an actual statement.. Death magnetic literally, from an objective standpoint has more complex song structure, more complex riffs, solos, composition..
I like 4-5 songs from 72 seasons, but in no way can it be considered too "interesting" since the whole album sounds very same-ish..
But hey, to each their own.
@@ShounenN complexity doesn’t make a song good, it still has to groove. Death Magnetic was trying to be Master of Puppets 2, but that is unobtainable. They lack the piss and vinegar at their ages to make that work. And thank god they didn’t put another Unforgiven on this album! It’s played out.
@@soulcraft_84 I semi-agree, but All Nightmare Long, That was just your life, My Apocalypse, Unforgiven 3, The Day That never comes, all great great songs featuring some of Metallica's most memorable moments and some great solos and harmonisations too.
I like 72 seasons, but I feel like the hype is there just because it is fresh, I am certain most of these songs won't stick with you a month from now.. I still go back to those mentioned above and some songs from Hardwired.. (Am I Savage, Spit Out The Bone, Dream No More, Here Comes Revenge, Halo on Fire)
I feel like the biggest issue with 72 seasons is that the songs are waaaay too drawn out and uninspired.. you can tell this clearly by realizing that the best part of every single song on that album is the second half..
So the first half is pretty much filler before the real thing comes and that can sometimes be underwhelming..
@@ShounenNfacs
This is an amalgamation of the last two albums but they’re actually in fighting shape. It’s the most inspired album of theirs since the black album yet still managed to re-invent.
If it happens to be their last album, it is a victory lap.
I agree. Not EVERY song is super solid but some of them are some of my favorites since the Black Album.
Really? I found there are nods to each prior album accross the whole work. That is why so many people keep comparing it to different albums.
I personally think it’s a step down from Hardwired. I already find myself skipping 4-5 songs on this album where as Hardwired I skip maybe 2. Also this is easily the most phoned in performance by Kirk ever.
@@deanh99 Don't forget about Mr. Drum Machine Lars SNAREL-rich.
Everyone seems to be making fun of my favorite glam rockers Steel Panther ...
But the good thing is that they don't give a shit about what Metallica or any other thrash metal bands do ...
Because they are kings of the genre in their own right ...
A thoughtful review. The best I've come across. I agree with you, especially regarding the deja vu feeling when listening to this record. It's a pity because when one listens to them in their earlier career, one knows that they are capable of greater heights in terms of creativity.
I agree with you 100% and it just makes me appreciate the first 5 even more🤘
Good review, On the money. & I only heard 4 songs off "72 Seasons" & haven't gone back for seconds.
Would I give the rest of the songs a chance? Sure, but wouldn't go out of my way to hear them.
the other 9 rrrr great
I only assert an album after hearing it in its entirety and a couple of times. The overall feel is what counts the most
Love this album, like all Metallica catalog including StAnger and I’m fan since 1983
My biggest problem with Metallica from St. Anger onward is the subject matter. They use to have dramatic themes like Phantom Lord, The Four horseman and Creeping Death etc. Now its all sounds like a therapy session.
Nail. Hammer. Head.
It's the exact opposite, dude. St. Anger was the last album where Metallica truly just poured out what was within, and that stuff makes the best music. Fade to Black is one of their most legendary songs and that came from Kirk and James' isolation from being away from home for so much of the year. Loneliness bred depression, and Fade to Black was born from a desire to express that. They used to sing about dark, depressing themes because it was what they really felt. It hits the hardest when it came from a real place, when the music was made because the emotions had to be let out, as opposed to manufacturing an album for the sake of making one. Death Magnetic's biggest flaw in my book was that it tried too hard to have "edgy" "metal" themes and lyrics, and consequently it felt a little less authentic. That shit may have been fine for the relatively more simplistic songs they wrote as teenagers in the Kill Em All days, when they were just trying to be the most extreme heavy metal band in their little underground niche, but they've been around for decades and have matured significantly as songwriters in the time since.
I struggle with Iron Maiden and Metallica now. I barely listen to the last 2 Iron Maiden albums and I'm not excited about the new Metallica album after how quickly I stopped listening to Hardwired. I still can't believe it's been 7 years already. I liked the singles for Hardwired a lot more than the singles for 72 Seasons so I haven't heard much to get excited about, and like you I hate long albums. 35-45 minutes is the sweet spot. Maybe I should buy the new Metallica but only listen to 1/2 of it for the first 3 years, then in 3 years start listening to the other half of it so it will seem like a new album every 3 years instead of a long bloated album to slog through every 7-8 years
this is way better than the last Maiden album. this guy complains totally on the video but yet praised Senjutsu which for me wasn't even Iron Maiden after all
@@arturoalmazan5262 I'm going to get the album and I'll approach it with an open mind. I think Senjutsu was better than Book of Souls. But I hate those fucking long albums too.
@Greg Baltzer I just didn't think Maiden sounded like the old days when they put out heavy album after heavy album. honestly I like this Metallica album more than book of souls and Senjutsu combined
Spot on review. That’s three in a row records from Metallica that are just boring. I loved their first four liked the next three and the rest are meh. Where are the choruses, they can’t seem to write a hook anymore and they used to be great at that.
You are so right. The album suffers from the following problems:
1.
The material is melodically undercomplex. Most of the songs have the same chord progressions and James sings the same note 90% of the time throughout the whole album.
2.
The mix is exhausting. The drums are way too saturated, too distorted and just exhausting to listen to.
3.
The songs are a long-winded repetition of a certain vocabulary, which the band has now simply told off.
Answer me these -riddles- problems, 3 !
Plus, the solos are all stock blues licks that are interchangeable. Huge disappointment. Why didn’t anyone tell Kirk he needed to write real solos? They so badly need a producer. Also most of the drum beats are stock. So boring and distracting. By the time I get to Insmorata, I want to scream because it’s the same stock beat. Amd the drums are so friggin loud its incredibly distracting. Songs SOUND long. Everything sounds uninspiring. This is like the 2nd side of hardwired minus Spit-nearly all filler. They need a producer-a real one!
If you're waiting for Metallica to re write musical history again you'll be waiting a while. For a bunch of 60 years olds I'd say 72 seasons a great effort and worth the listen.
It definitely felt like a lot of the same upon first listen. The sweet spot I was able to find was the vinyl version (better dynamic range) and putting a "rock" eq on. Something I would not normally ever recommend. That gets the snare out of the way a little and gives more access to Rob's bass. The other thing I decided to do was to mix up the track order. The end of the album takes a turn, and injecting those songs between the mid-tempo ones that sound similar helps to change up the flow of whole-album listening. It's weird that they've struggled so much with production, you'd think they'd have access to the best of the best but maybe that's just not what they want to make.
Metallica played a huge part on my teenage years musicall discovery in the mid late 80s so this is a band whose sound is engraved in my brain and this album resonates with that kid that always had is walkman and a mix tape with at least one Metallica song in it like no song of theirs had been able to do in the last 30 years. Could be faster but the guys are like 200 years old so give them a break. This album is amazing.
I made a tier list video just showing where each song in the album fits in.
I agree with most of what you said here. Plenty of really cool riffs and I love how they approached almost a desert/stoner rock vibe at times especially on the last track. The production as you mentioned is just terrible. I don't understand how a band that has unlimited resources always seems to fall flat with their production. There are bands with a 1/100th of their budget that put out better sounding more dynamic albums. Another big issue I have is that almost every song has the same basic arrangement so it makes even the better songs sound so formulaic and generic after a while. I also really enjoy a good portion of Load and Reload. Even those albums had a good variety throughout the tracklist and didn't just seem copy/pasted from one song to the next.
The last song soundes like it should be a bonus track for Load. It fits near perfectly with that vibe.
You're not the only one struggling. When the single Lux Aeterna came out I wasn't sold. As the subsequent singles came out I warmed to it a bit. With the whole album coming out I found myself giving it repeated spins, trying to pinpoint something but not quite getting.....there. My current assessment is that it sounds like a thrashier Load/Reload. The fire on alot of the tracks is there but it doesn't seem to go anywhere. I'm still listening to it; for me personally it's the most scrutinized album by them.
But I do like the fact there's not much "variety" on the album. Don't get me wrong, I even love LOAD, so I'm all for variety in music, but I just like the fact that this new album sounds to me more like the follow up to the black album than anything else. It's consistent and well produced, they are not forcing themselves to be super original but I think it works for this one. Sure you can say that some songs could be shortened and that Kirk's solo are only supporting the songs without adding much to them, but all in all I can listen to this album from start to finish without problem and without being bored. It's not that each song is a masterpiece, but the quality is constant and it keeps my interest all along. I think it's a great album.
I get this load/ black album vibe, in the music and riffs.
The problem is that in the Black Album you have a lot of variety: classic metal songs (Enter Sandman, Sad But True), thrashier songs (Holier Than Thou, Through the Never) and power ballads (The Unforgiven, Nothing Else Matters), in 72 Seasons we don't have it.
Even in albums with less variety (let's say Kill 'Em All), the production has his own personality. With 72 Seasons the production sounds like a continuation of Hardwired. And the production it's really good in terms of detail and power, but we don't have the personality and character that we had on the albums from 1983 to 1997.
I've fairly enjoyed the album and I give it a 7/10, but I don't see a continuation of the Black Album in a 2023 album that doesn't make the same effort to trim down the songs to the perfect length and put well written and understandable lyrics as his "brother" from 1991.
I really agree with all this. Major Metallica fan, but I'm struggling to even listen to this all the way through. It take sa lot out of you by the end of it.
Perfect review, my first Metallica album was Master when it first released. Then I bought Kill em all and Ride the Lightning and was hooked. To this day I think Justice was their finest work, their absolute peak. Black album was ok, I lost interest after that. This album, in my opinion is tired, rehashed and boring. I listened to the album on a walk also and shut it off at the end if the third song and put on Justice, lol. They need to retire
I don't think they should "retire" but they should retire as the producers. Also, write a song from start to finish before going in to record it rather than piece 50 pieces together with Protools while in the studio.
I see what you mean... I had these same thoughts when I was watching the release at the theaters. Everything felt the same, and they do nothing "new" per se. I wish it had some collaborations, some different instruments, and such...
But, for whatever reason, when I played the actual record a few days later, I really enjoyed it. I think it is an amazing album, and I like it now.
I see it as a statement of the band itself. There are references to Sabbath, other bands, and reference to Metallica itself.
This might be their last record... I think. Great review!!!
I think it's a great album. Will post a more specific take some time this week my opinion is definitely a 180 from yours.
another artist that everyone notices is when Tool drops a record
I just gave it a first listen this morning and I would say all of the songs are solid. Some do stand out as better than others so time will tell which ones grow on me. My only negative criticism is that I would like to hear more dynamics like some acoustic guitar passages here and there. James voice is still great and overall production is great.
I like the energy on this one...but there are some moments that I feel like we're just waiting for the next change to come up. I am also aware that I am bringing baggage to the listen that's like 30+ years old. Could be that this is Metallica's final form???
Like, ACDC has been in their final form since 1980. And, you gotta love them for that.
Nobody complains more about Metallica than Metallica fans.
Nobody complains more about Metallica fans than Metallica fans
@@Strugen. Nobody complains more about Metallica fans complaining about Metallica fans than Metallica f...oh, never mind.
@ John But seriously, OF COURSE Metallica fans will be the ones complaining about Metallica, as they're the only ones who care enough to notice!
Metal Fans complain, they just want Metallica to release master of puppets style albums and that would be boring, metal fans are the worst
@@stanleykendallsinvertednipple releasin another master puppets album def woudnt b borin....this new one is borin...which sounds like there last 2 albums..rubbish. repeated riffs,long tracks,same structure/solos. Only new metallica fans luv it.
Mustaine fans
I love the first 3 Cliff Albums. Justice and Black Album are pretty good , Death Magnetic is Great and I think Load is highly underrated . I am gonna listen to this and report back
I like it. I started listening to Metallica around the release of Ride the Lightening. So I'll say that Master and Ride are my favorite records. I don't listen to the Black album anymore but, quite liked it at the time. My least favorite Metallica record is Reload and that hasn't changed with the release of 72 Seasons. I like this record more than Hardwired and I think that it's fits for me in with Death Magnetic which I like. There are 12 songs on the record and I would say that I'm enjoying 8 of the 12. That may change. I am a Metallica fan so maybe I am just happy to be hearing something new from the band but, as of now about 12 to 15 listens in I'm happy with it.
I love the album. Every single song hit me hard on first listen, sonically and emotionally.
That said, I respect your review. No record is for everyone. For me, this is exactly what I’ve wanted from this band since ‘Load’. I feel like it perfectly fuses every era of the band, and has little hints of their future direction.
agreed
I do hear a little Load, but Load is perfect in production, writing, arranging and variety. 72 has poor production, badly arranged songs, all the same song structures, stick riffs, stock drumming, drums are way to loud, solos are all cut and paste blues licks, etc. 72 is more like the filler on side 2 of Hardwired and not even close to Load in any meaningful way. Just my opinion.
Well I believe the different tempo changes represent the 72 seasons ,or the differemt eras of the band over the years. Whats interesting to me is how they patch work different ideas together to form song structures !
It just came out. I’m in no rush to lose a new Metallica album. When I feel the time is right, I’ll give it a thorough listen. But the tracks they released as singles have been pretty good so far. I loved Hardwired, it was in the same league as their 80s trinity of Lightning through Justice without being too backwards looking like Death Magnetic was. I’m definitely looking forward to 72 Seasons. Right now I’ve been really into Megadeth’s recent The Sick, the Dying, and the Dead!, which I’ve only heard a couple of times so far.
Ugh…I get the struggle and it seems like a struggle the past 3 releases for me. I feel like I should love this album. You mentioned fatigue, and it felt fatiguing to listen to it. I’m hoping a few more listens may help. But, I didn’t feel this way with the new Megadeth or just listening to the first few Overkill songs from their latest.
Personally, I think Reload is one of the best rock albums of all time. I could listen to that album over and over forever, and it would never get old. To me, that was Metallica's peak.
I agree with the snare.
I like half of the songs so far.
72, lux, mirrors , light, darkness, shadow.
You say you want some variety??..... that's what they gave us on the Load/Reload albums!!
I went from thinking it was just decent upon first listen and wondering if I would even buy it (I just streamed it on RUclips) to really liking it upon the 4th listen and ordering it on vinyl. It's a real grower. Yes could be better, but I like the creativity of the songs more than some on Hardwired. Sometimes I wish the new stuff had more of a Ride the Lightning mix instead of sounding so clean and crisp. Sometimes it can come across as sterile. A few songs are samey sounding, but still good. I think Death Magnetic is my latest fave.
I heard the whole thing at my local store and I found myself bobbing my head along with the songs. Maybe it was the nicer sound system. I haven't listened to this on my computer or car yet but I enjoyed the album. That said, I didn't find myself going back to Hardwired or Death Magnetic after I got them a whole lot. I need to give this one some more spins.
Stuck in a rut I agree, almost like "Staring into Black Light" I do enjoy Room Of Mirrors though and most riffs on the album.
I think it’s the best they have done in the 2000s. Just me though.
They crushed this album. If you don’t like it give it time. It’s too good
72 seasons is one of their BEST albums!
Last friday was weird. Overkill and Metallica are two bands I love but this time the Overkill album is really a problem for Metallica because both came out on the same day. Production, drums (the cymbals!!), Blitz fantastic vocal performance, very good guitar solos, melodies and grooves. And the songs on the Overkill album are so creativ and diverse. Listen to it for the ninth time and love it so much. On 72 seasons on the other hand are many things I don't like. Alice in chains like choruses etc. But what is terror to my ears are this petmanent snare rolls. One good song. Lux aeterna.
I was very disappointed when The Black album first came out, but it eventually grew on me and now in the older version of me, I really like it. I don't think this is Metallica's worst album, but probably in the lower middle for me. (believe it or not, I like their St. Anger album - except for the percussion sound, what the hell was Lars thinking). Maybe this new album will grow on me eventually. One thing about Metallica is every album is different, which I like - even though they have some mis-steps. There are some metal groups that really don't change their sound much. Overkill has their new Scorched Earth album out now in 2023, which I really like, but sounds like most any other album they have put out. But because it is good, I don't mind.
I thought I would amend my previous comment. I am a blogger and today I have been listening to the album (very loudly with a buttkicker on my office chair) while writing. I have found myself bobbing my head to the music, so apparently, I am enjoying the music (which I am). I love the powerful sound and now that I am comprehending the lyrics, I have a better understanding of what Metallica was trying to achieve.
I agree. The snare tone is kind of missing the signature Lars thing. The sample used in there is pretty overwhelming. In addition to having the usual Lars explosive there, there's not that "whiplash" in the background that's kinda on top of everything.
The ones who have the wildest expectations for Metallica are their fans. I, as a fan, had to strip that back while play 72 Seasons on multiple playthroughs. My first playthrough hyped with expectations and that can ruin the experience. Once those were removed, I found this was the first album by Metallica I hadn’t felt compelled to skip a song since Load being the last album I could run through multiple times without skipping. The album is suppose to be digested as one cohesive unit.
I've heard most of the album now, and I like it, I am pleasantly pleased. I will get the cd at some point. Metallica still remains relevant.
It's a fair review, I get it. There's songs on the album I don't like at all. I think that they could have trimmed this down to 50 minutes or so. I don't like Inamorata...there, I said it.
That being, said I think the band is going in a new direction, and I do like what I'm hearing. I think if they could figure out how to shorten the length of their songs it would be a good thing.
I always agree with the trimming when it comes to the last 3 metallica albums, but this one?! bull crap. there isn't one piece of music that is out of place on this one. And sure you might not like Inamorata, but you must respect the fact that everyone else loves it.
@@Juventinos I like the album, but they do need to trim the fat. If you like Inamorata that's fine with me...I just don't.
@@uzisuicide7021 Exactly what I said. of course it's fine to not like a song. And usually I would agree with trim the fat, not on this record, the riffarama parts are insane, the best part of the album
Rock stars do not make their best music whilst they are doing therapy, drinking smoothies, and meditating.
They _say_ it's their best work yet.
It isn't.
They do their best work when they are on the edge and almost out of control. For all of the good things you can say about this album, it doesn't make your hair stand on end because it was made by men who are in their 60's and have matured beyond the raw emotions that _did_ make your hair stand on end.
I like your review. You have some valid critiques with the lack of variety and the snare issues. That being said, I love this album. I do get tired of listening to people compare all of their albums to the first 4 albums. They are a different band and they are 30-40 years older than they were. I, as a Metallica fan of 30+ years don't want to hear them try to make another master of puppets or ride the lightening. Those were amazing albums. No album, ever will hold up to those in most fan's eyes. There will never be another MoP, AJFA, or RL. So I don't want them to try. I want to hear new things from them. I want them to take risks. And I think they tried with this album. Looking back at death magnetic, where I think they did try to get back to the 80's sound. It was a good album but nothing that just blew me away. Same with hardwired. Honestly I think 72 Seasons is the best album since reload and maybe since the black album. There are a few duds for me on this album but overall I like almost all the songs and really like at least 7 of them.
Nail on the head Lair! I feel everything you said, but I’m unable to articulate what I’m hearing.
I’ve really enjoyed it so far. It was heavier than I expected and I know what you mean regarding perhaps needing more variety. However…I was disappointed there was no Sabbath Sunday last week discussing the new Live Evil SDE😀. I’ve already pre-ordered it. I just get too excited for these Sabbath box sets. Perhaps Born again will arrive this year along with Tony Martin?
Always remember that things that you like or dislike are 100% subjective and your mood is going impact that. I, personally, like MOST of 72 Seasons. I did notice some of the distortion you mentioned, it's faint, but, it's definitely present. As a drummer I really love a lot of Lars's work. Also, I think they choose speed songs to counter arguments that Metallica can't play metal. Thank you for your opinion.
I fall squarely into the category of "old guy who thinks they fell off a cliff after Justice." I hated the Black album and Load, Reload etc were even worse. I wasn't too impressed with Death Magnetic or Hardwired either. BUT for some reason, I'm digging 72 Seasons a lot more than I ever expected to. I love the greater use of harmony guitars, I love the Sabbathy vibes, and the NWoBHM/Thin Lizzy vibes... is it as good as the first four? Of course, not, not even close. But for me, it's their best work since Justice. I woke up this morning with the chorus of "You Must Burn" in my head - and that hasn't happened with any Metallica release since Justice. I think that says something. now, whether it has staying power over the coming months remains to be seen. But for now, after 4 or 5 listens, I'm liking a lot of it.
Well put. I think parts of it are highly emotional fulfilling and parts are phoning it in. Honestly.
@@will-love-lvx Agree that definitely parts of it are phoning it in, for sure. It's by no means consistent, or anything like it. But I'm find that when it's good, it's REALLY good.
I'm a little torn on this album. On the one hand, I definitely do like it. I don't think it's a bad album, and I think anyone who says otherwise is probably lying or at least exaggerating. It's listenable and enjoyable. At the same time though, it's undeniably not a great album either. It does not hold a candle to their 80s stuff. I listened again to Hardwired today, as well as St. Anger, both albums that I have always felt hold up just as strongly to Metallica's best stuff. I was blown away by Hardwired when I first heard it, I have consistently had that same feeling upon each revisit, and now after having listened to 72 Seasons, I still feel that way today. It is absolutely as good as the best of their discography, and lyrically is arguably the best album to date. 72 Seasons does not make me feel the same way. Not only does it not immediately grab you and make you go, "Holy shit, wow," but it also feels like I have to make an effort to find the goodness and like it. I think that's telling. The only song on this album that actually feels great, worthy of Metallica's best stuff is the final track Inamorata. That one does give me that sense of, "Wow, this is something special." It's the only song on this album that does that for me, whereas on Hardwired nearly every song had that same impact.
Now, all that said, I have to ask, is it even a good idea to compare this album to their other works? As one music critic put it, this album is sonically somewhere between the Black album and Reload, if those albums had come out right after Kill 'Em All. I read that and thought that's exactly what I was feeling. A great way to word it. Now, that doesn't mean the songwriting on this album is actually as good as that on Black or Reload, but in terms of vibe at least, it has more in common with their 90s output than their 80s output, so my point is, maybe we are mistaken to be comparing this to the And Justice For All era in the first place. However, I don't think these songs are anywhere near as good as the masterpieces on Load and Reload either.
I honestly think 72 Seasons might be their weakest album, but that doesn't mean it's a bad album. I honestly enjoyed all the songs on here, even if objectively most of them are pretty average. An average metal album only seems worse than it is, because frankly everything else they've done has been perfection. We hold them to a higher standard.
To get into specific critiques, I think the album could have benefitted from more dynamics, more variety, and better flow. There isn't even a single ballad on here. There weren't any clean parts, let alone perhaps some acoustic guitar. Almost all of the songs are on the longer side, paced at a jogging mid-tempo. The thrashy sprint of Lux Aeterna is the exception to the rule here. I don't think a lot of the riffs are all that great. There's a lot of bog standard, frankly kind of boring riffs, though there are just as many if not more good riffs in there too. Likewise, there are some moments here and there where we get a lovely melody line or harmonized part, but I still feel like those elements are somewhat lacking. The songwriting on Death Magnetic was generally to a higher standard.
Ι liked it a lot and I think it gives me a marginally better taste than Hardwired, but most of all they don't sound as pretentious as they did from B.A. and onwards. The only problem I have with it is the lazy drumming of Lars and the simple solos of Kirk. Those 2 could have tried more
I feel the same. Metallica at their best will make you go 'woah' with intricate heart felt acoustics or a what was that? reaction. But this album has none of that. Having said that the vocals sound great and some of the songs are really good. The true test like all Metallica music is how will it sound live mixed in with their back catalogue.
I like the album .Metallica always trys to be different .AC DC is just AC DC if they were making a new album i already know what its gonna sound like lol .. I understand what you said about variety ..Going from Creeping Death to Fade to black is a cool change and vibe ..I think they feel they been there done that and keep trying to move forward in a different way ..This album has long intros and endings , done on purpose thats them changing it up i guess ..We all want Masper of puppets part 2 maybe some day ..Stay well
I think a DolbyAtmos video would be great! An in depth video on audiophile tech would be awesome as well and could rack up views for sure !! Great video.
I enjoyed “72 Seasons” as a whole. It’s a solid album. Not as good as “Hardwired” but better than “Death Magnetic” in my opinion!
Poor Metallica. They are in the precarious position where if a new release is too much of a change they get slammed for that and if they continue with the present direction they get equally criticized. From an old guy who was there from the beginning I have to say I'm somewhat glad to see them still in the "pummel the listener" phase. But there is an element of fatigue when taking in the album as a whole. I've always thought that other things added into songs (acoustic,slower tempos,etc) help give an album what this one is lacking-dynamics. So color me initially impressed for the mighty Met not "wimping out",but as with the two preceding albums,I'll probably admire it from afar.
I agree that they maybe should have cut a song or two. Inamorata elevates this for me to a great album for me.
I don't expect these legacy bands like Maiden, Megadeth, or Metallica to put out another energy laden release as they did back in the day. That would be foolish. I won't slag on them or put them down. They deserve by this point to do whatever they want. I always tell my kids that Metallica started out as an underground metal head garage type band. I miss that. I find Myself returning to 'Kill 'Em All' more than anything they've done. I do have a very soft spot for the 'Black Album'. 'Hardwired' was really very decent. This one might be, too. Whether I ever check this one out or not, I have to credit Metallica with teaching me how to think for myself and believe in me along with other bands like Megadeth and Testament. Whether I like what they do or not, they are metal royalty in my book, I just feel there is so much music and so little time. Thanks for your thoughts on this, John. It's appreciated.
Very well said ! I love Metallica, but Hardwired and 72 Seasons are way too similar and totaĺy forgettable. And to point out I really like Death Magnetic cause to me there is a lot of variety and I can distinguish the songs there. Also I think it’s way too long to not being very repetitive for both Hardwired and 72 seasons.
I am waiting to get it on RSD this weekend. Your review gives me excitement because I really liked Death Magnetic and Hardwired…Metallica is going to struggle with themselves as they advance in age/career just due to the nature of their brand of Music. I completely understand your point of fatigue with these latest records. I only listen to these on full blast but I’m ok with that for now. Definitely curious how they will adjust their sound however in the future.
I think they've tried to make an album with a certain feel, and have dropped the ball in terms of quality. I don't even know if it's better than Beyond Magnetic.
Great video John Thank you
I like it. Dudes are in their 60s and can still deliver a high energy pummeling album. No complaints.
Testament Overkill Saxon exodus all oap’s but still playing harder faster meaner than Metallica as soon as they retire the better for me
72 Seasons doesn’t pummel.. repetitive, boring and simplistic
Yeah, I don't understand the "the dudes are in their 60s" comments. It's like a pass for creating music that's not up to par with their earlier music, when their are tons of bands the same age that are still creating some of their best, even faster/heavier music eg. Exodus, Kreator, Sodom, Voivod, Testament, Anthrax, Metal Church, Corrosion of Conformity, and even bands like Napalm Death, Obituary, Benediction are still killing it with great music. Traditional metal/hard rock bands like Satan, Judas Priest, Armored Saint, Scorpions are also still making potent music. Age means nothing, it comes down to passion. I think Metallica rest on their laurels now. It's like they think "It's good enough and people will love it regardless, because we're Metallica."
@@James-hh1lq Yes thank you for stating that. I’m tired of people saying well they are old so just appreciate it, no….. if you love an NFL team and the QB is playing like ass you don’t say well “he used to be good so let’s keep him on the field and just appreciate that he’s out there”. Testament delivers every single record and some Metallica fans just can’t accept and will defend them like their favorite political party or something. This album is just meh, not the worst thing I’ve heard but also not exciting, I say 5/10. Kirks solos on the other hand 2/10. Absolutely laughable!
@@dennisrazzmatazz1352 they put Metallica on a pedestal and for the love of god I don’t know why .
I feel exactly the same. I love Metallica so much that I wanted to be really good, I keep giving these guys the benefit of the doubt. But it's just hard, they're not there anymore. In general, I think Lars is dragging the whole band down. Jeff still has the passion and creativity, Kirk would be good if the whole band is creating something at a good level. Robert, he's so talented and needs to be more involved in the creativity process. I still love them, for what they've done, for the great memories. Even though I'm just liking ok the new stuff.
I love it! I haven't been that enthusiastic about a new Metallica album since The Black Album. This is full of good energy and to me it sounds right. The solos are great too (did you notice the homage to Speed King in Screaming Suicide?). It's a long album, and yet every time I listen to it, it goes by very fast. I'm a big fan of the 3 first albums, Justice is great, The Black album was exciting at first (but I can't really listen to it anymore), and to me the rest of their catalogue was very uneven, there was always something bothering me (the sound, the songs, the vibe,...). But this one is what I consider a true return to form! Now, don't tell me you expected Lars to groove :-) The guy's fantastic at what he does, but he's no Ian Paice (or Peter Criss for that matter!).
The album does make me want to bang my head all the way through, and that's always a good sign :-)
Hope it'll click with you and you'll be able to enjoy it.
Cheers.
I think Lars has tons of groove.
I agree with you. I can remember watching the movie Eddie and the Cruisers part 2. Eddie is talking to his guitarist about people can go into the bar and hear the guitarist playing. It nice to hear and enjoy, but once they leave, they forget all about it. I think the same remains for Metallica's latest albums
It's nice to hear, but nothing really stands out. I don't think that Metallica will ever be the same and create memorable great music to listen decades later. To bad!
It's interesting because I really, needed to try to like St Anger , and some of the stuff is groovy but definitely easily my least favorite. I never thought I'd see the day where I had to 'try' to like a metallica record. Death magnetic was definitely a relief and a huge step up and man u was hooked when it first come out. I can barely listen to it today. Same went for Hsrdwired, I thought it was an even major improvement on Death magnetic but I don't care to listen to it so much now. 72 seasons , I'm back to trying to like it. Wayyy better than st anger but for whatever reason its just not grabbing me like I wish it would. I want to love this record, here's hoping it will happen. I wonder how people would have reacted if this came out just after the Load albums ?
I'm not a huge metallica fan but I really like this album. I think it's very good and rocks pretty hard. It's not thrash but it's not bad
There's a couple thrashy songs, but overall it has more of a 90s vibe than an 80s one.
It’s the album that should have followed Load / Reload had those not had such a critical mauling and they hadn’t almost imploded making St Anger - which before James went to rehab was trying to embrace the no solos approach of nu metal and trying to recapture their early sound. 72 Seasons is underpinned by their 90s sound with their pre-Black, first four album sound. Definitely lacks a big track or two like Hardwired had Moth Into A Flame. I think it hangs together better as an album since anything since Load.
I really like the 72 seasons album. There are a few songs I don’t care for, like You Must Burn, and Crown of Barbed Wire. It would be better if those were left off. But Lux Æterna and Inamorata are fantastic and great additions to their song catalog.
I’m 53 years old and I’ve been a Metallica fan since 1985. Like you I thought they sold out with the Black Album. Yet, over the years I’ve come appreciate their 1990’s stuff. For instance over two and half decades ago I hated Carpe Diem Baby, but it has in the past few years become on of my favorite Metallica songs.
So our tastes and opinions can change over time.
I liked Death Magnetic in that it signaled the bands return to their 80’s era thrash sound. Yet I didn’t think it was great. I’ve come to appreciate the death theme more though in the years since my wife passed away. Hard Wired was better but still not great, though Atlas Rise is a fantastic song and is one of my favorites it means a lot to me.
Yet 72 Seasons, for the most part I think is their best effort since Reagan was president. I’ve listened to it a lot over the last eight months, I love most of it.
Inamorata could have been titled My Friend of Misery II (or reprise), it is excellent and one that folks will still appreciate forty years from now. In fact I think in forty more years Metallica itself and and most of us Gen X 80’s era fans will be gone. Yet folks will look back and think this was one of the best MetallicA albums ever.
Room of Mirrors is a standout to me. Something about it sounds comparatively fresh.
Metallicas shows going forward will still feature mainly songs from the first 5 albums. That’s what people still want to hear from them live. After the hype of this album is over, a 72 seasons song will become a ‘rare’ on their set list Im sure.
I enjoyed the album, but I must admit I to miss when they had melodies or accoustic guitar on the songs. But don't worry about it. You don't need to like every song by a band or even every album. I don't enjoy all the work but I enjoy enough of Metallica's catalogue and that is enough for me.
Oh on the drumming I can listen to all their songs but the drumming on St Anger and Death Magnetic albums make my ear drums hurt and the songs hard listening.
I 100% agree with your statements also on the previous albums, it seems we have a similar experience throughout the last 50plus years. I conclude that 72s suffers from the same symptoms as HW and DM (which was of course still a big relief from the previous 3 records), few cool riffs plus a lot of dull and uninspired riffing with Lars’ ever and ever repetitive half beats.
If I tried to analyse the root cause I would blame the Tuning Room. This trial of James spontaneously play any riff and Lars tuning in again and again with cameras and mics always open results in the same uninspired stuff you will automatically come up if your guitar playing was inspired by 80s Thrash. In the past they put their own work into it individually on their riff tapes and tried to impress each other. That’s not happening anymore but you’ve got to put work and time into it to become innovative. The highly praised Inamorata is the best example. Take the outstanding sound away provided by outstanding budget and what remains is an endless repetition of the same three note pattern plus a stolen riff from Lenny Kravitz … I’m happy for any new Metallica album but it’s just shy of a huge opportunity and we might not have too many shots left
I absolutely agree with you. I put it on the other day and I could not get past the fourth song, I turned it off. It is good, it is just them repeating themselves all over again. It is good, it is just generic. I told someone it is campbells chicken noodle soup to my Mom's homemade chicken soup. They are overrated at this point, I personally think Megadeth has always had better musicianship anyways. Lars and James can't do anything new.
It's just ok. I would rank it somewhere in the middle of the discography. I like it better than the 90's garbage, for sure. The first four albums are the only albums I really ever listen to, mainly Puppets and Justice. I did think Death Magnetic was pretty cool. That was my favorite after the first four classics. I'll give 72 Seasons some more time. Maybe it will grow on me...slightly.
I've not interest to check it out. The last album I enjoyed was St. Anger. The DVD rehearsal room version of that has a better sounding snare. But, I like the album version of St. Anger just fine too. I've gotten used to the snare I reckon. I also liked the Load/Reload albums. Love the first four albums all the way through. Black album kicks tons of arse. I seen them in #LubbockTX in 2019, it was ok, but didn't compare to seeing them on tour for Justice when I was in the 7th grade. I later seen the tour for the Black album as well. Both great gigs. The sound systems bands use in this day and age is not to my liking.
I agree about the drum sound
Do you want heavy!!!! Well then you buy overkills new :scorched... Fuckin amazing!!!! Been around since 1981 and they fuckin delivers!!!! Listen to fever.. Gooddamm.. And: know here name... The riff.. The drums..
Record of the year!! If you into heavy music!!!!
72 seasons is a compilation of all their styles from kill'em all to load/reload
Agree with pretty much everything you said. It didn’t capture me first listen. The magic isn’t there like the first four albums. I actually prefer death magnetic and hard wired. The new one sounds warmed over. Give me 8 songs and about 40 minutes.
I heard it yesterday... It's boring. Of course they haven't done anything worth a shit to me since the 80's so I'm probably not the best judge.
100% ❤
Really hard album to get through. The production is really dry and lifeless, drums are too loud and Lars is pretty much playing the same thing over and over. James used to do vocal melodies that you could hum and they would be their own tune. Since St. Anger his vocal melodies feel forced and unnatural plus the lyrics aren't much better
I thought it was great production and the first album since the black album that I would say is excellent. Every band has a golden period they never get back to.
All James does is the shouty samey vocal "melody" now.
Totally agree with this, plus the songs drag for too long, like there's stuff that was great for a minute or two but not 4.. or in instances they do some cool things and cut it short.. weird weird decisions
Not too mention the solos are all cur and paste blues licks. I agree with your points. I’m shocked more people aren’t talking about the bad drum mix and the stock drumming.
This monster length of an album is REALLY good! 🔥
Death magnetic was it that was their last good punch in my opinion hardwired and 72 seasons is not very good their trying to go for the kids now it feels like that's what their trying to cater to which is cool u know but not my thing
I’m in the Cliff era too and think Metallica should remix …And Justice for All, like Rush did with Vapor Trails. Metallica (Black) album was okay and I do like LuLu.
Don't find anything new or creative on this album, I think that this is trying to please the fans with a return to a 80'a feel, but it's not exiting, I compare this to the last two Iron Maiden albums both of which were fresh and creative but still heavy and the signature Maiden sound, two of their best albums in the winter of their career.
Metallica are living on past glories, think of it this way, if this was a debut album you would not be impressed.
I'm not anti Metallica fan but they have not moved on, maybe they can't and the creativity is not there.
It's the guitar tone for me. I feel like I'd enjoy the songs way more if it had more of a Black album tone or anything from the 80s.
They’re never gonna make something as good as their first four but wish they would leave at least 4-5 tracks off the last three releases. It’s not terrible but not something I’ll probably reach for after the hype dies.
Any band once they reach a certain age is inevitably going to settle into their established style. You have to be young I think to truly break new ground and push the envelope. Part of it too is the culture of today is far more retro compared to the culture in the 80s, 90s, and 00s was much more forward-looking, much more about rebelling against, breaking away from what came before. Since the 10s it’s been more about remaking/rebooting the past, that is just generally what seems to sell now. The biggest problem though is the fake Metallica “fans” who could never look past the “holy trinity” of Lightning, Puppets, and Justice. It is beyond pathetic that you need to “defend” what is inarguably not just one of the greatest heavy metal albums of all time, but also one of the greatest hard rock albums ever, period. Not only is the Black Album an absolute juggernaut that transcends even the rock genre, and something that put the band on the map in the same tier as Guns ‘N’ Roses has been after Appetite, but it also spearheaded a new wave of similar more pop-oriented releases from all the major “underground” extreme bands of the 80s. Megadeth followed with a release of perfect records from Countdown through Cryptic Writings; Metallica reached their creative pinnacle of their career with Load, Reload, and S & M 1; Slayer released South of Heaven and Seasons in the Abyss; Sepultura had Roots Bloody Roots, etc.
Look, not many people are a bigger fan of Metallica’s 80s works than me. I lived and breathed Metallica in college, screaming the lyrics as I walk the streets. They’re maybe the biggest reason I started playing guitar. I use a lot of Kirk Hammet licks in my songs.
But I am so fed up of the b.s. internet narrative that Metallica ended in 1989, or 86, or whenever. No, shut up, Load and Reload are equally brilliant yet go in a completely different direction with an awesome blend of 70s heavy metal, 90s alternative, and even some country, all while still being as heavy and soulful as the band is known for. St. Anger is probably the biggest misunderstood heavy metal album ever. It fucking rocks. Okay, it isn’t some arena pleaser, but if you read the name, why would you expect it to be? You have to be in a low place in your life to appreciate the album, and it is still to date their heaviest release, bar none. That’s not to say there aren’t a few criticisms that would be valid of it (although trashing the snare drum isn’t one of them) i.e. the lack of solos and some songs could’ve been shorter perhaps, but overall it is imo their last true album in the sense that they really tried to do something out there. It’s a travesty that it got its reputation and ever since Metallica have clung closely to the familiar sound they think their “fans” want.
They need a new drummer. Let Lars be the manager or whatever, but keep him away from drumkits and mixing consoles.
Wouldn't be Metallica as we know them without him, he's part of the package for better or worse.