This is the first Metallica album I've ever listened to that is a grower. I didn't like it at first but it grows on you after 3-4 listens. It's nothing amazing but its a solid, consistent album.
Thanks for the review Pete. I disagree with most of what you said here, as I love the album. Metallica’s last three albums have provided so much good stuff and this is no exception. I particularly love Luc AEterna, Shadows Follow and Screaming Suicide. May there be many more Metallica albums like this!
Pete, I recommend covering the Dodheimsgard album that was released the same day as the new Metallica. Extremely unique progressive/avantgarde black metal.
No Metallica album grew on me as much as this one... The more I listen to it the more I like it. This album deserves a chance. I thought Pete, as you are big Sabbath fan, you will really enjoy new Metallica stuff. :) Some songs (like Sleepwalk my life away) remind me Sabotage, overall Sabbath influence is present... Groovy, heavy album with memorable harmonies. Best Metallica album in years, in my opinion.
nah theres no sabbath resemblence in this album...apart from opening riff on last track, i do like few tracks but the rest is same old same old like there last few albums (which i dont like) ps give me sabbath anydays...tho i am from bham uk....home of sabbath ha..
@@smofla13 right?? I heard a little Sabbath on the last track but nothing to write home about. Take away Kirk's wah wah for god sakes, no 5 string bass, and James needs to stop yarrrling. You know when a guy like that is using an old Elvis mic you're in trouble. I want ripping solos and gruff vocals. Lol. You would think with all the attention to Master of Puppets recently they'd know what people want. And Stranger Things wasn't playing Load. Or even the lame Black Album. I know it sold a bazillion albums but they aren't selling that many albums nowadays. Give the fans what they want. Please.
Definitely a "grower" for me. I don't think the length is bad myself. Really like the Sabbath vibe that a lot of the songs have. For me, nothing feels like filler this time around, at least after 4-5 listens. If you look at Metallica's career in "eras" of the bass players, this is to me the best of the "Trujillo Era," for lack of a better way of putting it. Does it stand up to the classics? Probably not, but it's a solid album.
I like Hardwired more than 72, mainly because I've listened to it more. I find albums with lengthy songs to be more rewarding upon further listening, unless they are endless jams.
Love the band. Decent modern album. I’m getting what your saying about time wise. I think the new Extreme album is shaping up sounding like what Metallica should of been aiming for. The first tracks of their new album is rocking! Nuno is off the charts here. Can’t wait for the rest.
I wouldn't have minded a song like Halo of Fire placed as track 5 or 6 to change pace. Another shorter would've been nice. Fav songs so far are 72 Seasons, Inamorata, Room of Mirrors, If Darkness Has a Son
I have 2 problems with new Metallica: 1). Songs are too long 2). Lars drumming is too simple Because of these two aspects I think 77 min is too long. But hey, there are a lot of rock fans who like it. So I am happy for them, it is great to like music and to have your own favourite band.
As a fan of Metallica since 1985. The reality is, they peaked at the Black album. Most rock and metal bands do their best creative and innovative music when they are young. Chalk it up to being hungry and not having been influenced by the business. Everything else is derivative and screams desperation to stay relevant. That's one of the reasons Sting disbanded The Police. A legendary great band. He knew that they could top what they had already produced and was best to end on top!
Great post. Was just thinking that earlier today- who are the only huge bands who made a conscious decision to forego the money and end it? Beatles, Zeppelin,Police. Some like Skynyrd and the Eagles tried and caved. How cool would it have been if Lars and James after the black tour said - that’s it. We did it. All downhill from here.
I think your review is spot on Pete. I would give it 3.5 stars. I do think this is better effort than Hardwired (not a fan of that album here). You can tell Metallica tried to make this deeper and more complex album. However, it does feel bloated a bit and as you pointed our, trimming down so it is around 60 minutes would have helped. On Jimmy Fallon, they did shorter version Darkness had son that was fantastic live. Had more punch. Highlights for me are Darkness had a son (my favorite track), Ianmorata, Lux, and Sleepwalk. I think it is a little worse than Death Magnetic overall. This definitely isn't return to first five, that will never happen but it was better than I expected it too be.
Why the fuss over the cover not having the band's name? Most Pink Floyd album covers are nameless and title-less. As is Abbey Road, Zep 4, In the Court of the Crimson King, to name just a few that are considered iconic.
I like it enough, but I agree that it's way too long. Also, the first thing I did was put the disc in an extra jewel case that I had laying around. Screw that packaging. I do want to say that I like the new Overkill a lot more. Thanks, Pete!
@@errolhenderson5665 This is so repetitive it’s ridiculous. Metallica just don’t have the range to pull off an album like this. And at times it sounds like Dream Theater lite. Or any number of 2000’s metalcore type bands. B grade modern prog rock/thrash type of sound. Not very good.
I give it a solid B grade....I really enjoy the production it does not sound compressed and or distorted like Death Magnetic. Also James vocals and lyrics pulls this through as well.
This is moderate. Not gonna give em my money. I think they should be embarrassed. Go way back to what made them Mighty Metallica or retire. They've completely lost their earlier fanbase. Sad but true.
I also found the album a little lackluster compared to Death Magnetic and Hardwired, but you're SO wrong about the middle of Inamorata. Arguably, the other songs would have benefited from more varied dynamics. I'm a post-rock instrumental fan, so I live for that build/peak cycle.
I think it's a good album. Some really good riffs. My problem is the lead solos, they're not good and make the songs seem longer than they are. highlights: 'Crown of Barbed Wire' through 'Too Far Gone'
Been waiting to hear what you think of this one, Pete. Hetfield, as always saves the day. Decent record, I miss that crispy old-school production so much these days, but at least the bass is audible I guess! Cheers Pete.
LOL The Jethro Tull shirt. I didn't even realize it until you mentioned it. As for the album, I just recently reviewed it for my website. I liked it overall and feel that James was on point lyrically and vocally on most tracks. However the album does suffer from being a tad too long and I would prefer shorter songs.
Great point about James' vocals, the album is decent, but if James ever wants to go into the studio with an acoustic and do a solo album, I'd be up for that!
I try, but it's the same vibe I got from Hardwire: very predictable and conservative. If they are not capable of great writing anymore, at least they should care about their tone. Even Load/Reload had great sound. This excerpt of Pete's review defines the whole album for me: "Kirk tosses a few bits we've heard too many times before; chorus doesn't grab... I dunno, they're trying really hard to give us something they know people really grab onto, but doesn't really work. It's ok, not terrible, not great either."
Completely disagree with his review. Some great tracks. Incredible riffs. Blasted it in the car and it sounded even better. I have no issue with Lars drumming! He's perfect for this band.
I think Metallica's problem (and by problem, I mean not being able to rekindle the magic of those original 4 albums) has been money, fame and success. Not that there's anything at all wrong with that and part of me is glad they achieved such so it could bring recognition for their early work. The problem I always feel is that if you achieve such money, fame and success you've lost the capacity and perspective on life to write songs like those early ones. The youth, angst and anger is placated by the almighty dollar.
I absolutely agree with you. The band simply became too big for their own artistic good. Once the hunger was gone, the music began to slip. They've spent the last 30+ years trying to recapture the magic of those 80s records to little avail. I admire that they're really trying to write the best records they can, but given their success, it's virtually impossible to come up with anything even approaching the quality of old Metallica. It is what it is. Credit must be given for being 60 years old and still playing fast, aggressive metal, though. Metallica aren't the Stones or Aerosmith. It's not the easiest music to play. Also, the fact that they're going strong is a big part of keeping rock music commercially alive. All in all, considering everything, I think "72 Seasons" is a relative win.
They might just be bored with thrash. Like they could feel that they and other bands wrung everything out of the genre that can be. And maybe they're right about that but it leaves them in a tough spot because their fans are always going to be dissatisfied whenever they deviate from it.
@@colico14 well said. Couldn’t agree more. And I should clarify, I don’t dislike most of their modern stuff at all. In fact I quite like it and they’re good at what they do. I just think recapturing any of the former thrash glory on a whole album is beyond them.
Most will disagree but Metallica just aren’t very good at being a rock band, which is where they went after the early thrash days. They wanted to broaden the palette, which is fine, but I don’t think they had the songwriting chops and range to really pull it off. The black album is commendable but they never recovered after it.
See; I was hoping that Lyrically he would lay off the personal, emotional, anguish thing. I don't mind that he's gone there, but what more is there to say about it? Look at all the bad shit going on in the world today. I'd think plenty of juicy writing material for agressive metal music. Are they fat and happy financially? Sure. But who wasn't pissed about the handling of Covid, the conspiracy theories around it. All this woke shit, war mongers all over the planet. For one album cycle, go back to external sources of inspiration. It may give the music a kick in the ass as a result.
Petes review is spot on.I’m struggling with this album .There are some good songs however it’s too long and I find it an ordeal to listen to from start to finish.I totally agree with comments on the packaging it totally sucks
Regardless of the opinions presented here; this is by far my most favorite review I've ever watched on SOT....hilarious, spontaneous and brutally honest! the end of the video had me spitting out my coffee laughing, more of this please Pete!
I wrote this off on first listen but on repeats it is really starting to shine. It's a very dense album for sure but the more I listen the more I like. Hardwired had more variety but also way more clunkers and I grew tired of it pretty quickly but this is starting to stick and I keep finding interesting new things that has me going back. If it keeps growing on me like this it may surpass Death Magnetic...
This is one of the few truly honest and objective reviews of this album that I’ve come across. I can always count on you, Pete, for a no BS review. Most I’ve seen were glowing slobber fests by millennial Metallica fanboys and I questioned if we even heard the same album. I just don’t trust the “Metallica can do no wrong” set. Anyway, I listened to the album in it’s entirety when it was released last Friday at Midnight and I was basically left not feeling much other than it was too long and too samey sounding in a lot of parts. There are definitely some standout moments that caught my ear but overall I just wasn’t feeling a lot of it. I did enjoy the Sabbathy Doom vibe on a few songs but I’ve tried listening to the album a few times since then but it seems like a chore to get through it all. Favorite tracks so far are the title track, Sleepwalk My Life Away, Lux Aeterna, and Inamorata.
you've seen millennials praising this one? that surprises me. i'm right on the cusp of millennial and gen x (1981) and i can't imagine someone younger than me giving a single care about this album, or heck even this band!
@@cyrollan they’re all over RUclips you can find them easily. Only two or three others were this objective. Many that I saw were hyper-positive to the point of cringe. And why do you assume Millennials wouldn’t care about this band? From what I observed those that were 10-12 years old when The Black album was released, i.e., your generation, got into Metallica big time. I think your comment is more appropriate for Gen Z or anyone born after 2000.
A sign that an album is good imo is when I put it on repeat - I consider it a very good sounding, well made concept album (albums I hate, that are very bad are (re)load and St. Anger). Other latest albums I put on repeat are the ones from AC/DC and Black Box Revelation.
I'm lovin' the new Metallica album myself! As for the cd packaging... i agree... cumbersome. Not quite as bad as Ace Frehley's "Anomaly" cd though. Lol. 🤘
I had no idea the packaging was like that. Mix in all that yellow with the burnt toys, haggard faces, and Jethro Tull shirt, I was laughing through the entire video😂
I hate it when artists sometimes have neither name nor album title on the front cover, it never made any sense to me it can only confuse consumers, I remember in the past going through racks coming across albums and initially you'd have no clue who it was.
@@stephanea5364 Those rich, board room people are always out of touch and at this point I think Metallica may be too. It's the old "Metallica are an entity amongst themselves, they don't even need a logo anymore" thing..
Lux eterna and 72 seasons I really like. sounded great live as well in Montreal this past weekend. Their non repeat concert tour is Awsome! I recommend all Metallica fans to go if they come to your city
I enjoyed this review! I’ve been watching lots of them from people with 1000 followers to hundreds of thousands. It’s always interesting to hear the spread from blah to great. Interestingly, my father who has always avoided MetallicA (most likely due to the fact that he heard so much of it when I was learning how to play) went to the Global Listening party with me and enjoyed a number of songs! His favorite jam was the long ass “Inamorata.” It’s cool how each album can pick up some new fans. I’ve listened quite a few times now and as a guitar player, it’s a solid album. There are lots of riffs that I want to play because they make me move without a guitar. I find myself bobbing and weaving with many of the twisted parts. James’ vocals are objectively really good and the harmonies are interesting. I was actually surprised by the number of key changes and also surprised to hear major chords and keys. Kirk’s solos are less purposeful and seemingly superfluous on many tracks. In other songs he’s providing effect. Lars’ drumming serves the song. IMO if you are going to have a sh*t ton of riffology, the drums can’t be insane without detracting from the riffs. Rob is providing a solid foundation throughout. I like HEARING the bass, and he has an amazing tone. His vocal parts really suited him as well. As far as the packaging is concerned, I think it is arbitrary 😂 These days, people do most things digitally through streaming or DLing .wav files. The digipak took me back a bit; this package harkens back to what I used to love about album releases. It’s almost like getting to hold the music the way you do with a vinyl record. The vinyl is nice and thick and has a good frequency capture. I didn’t mean to leave my own review here, but I enjoyed yours and was inspired to put in my two cents. You have a new follower 🤘🏼
As most people say its a grower, in the 70s an album was 40 mins long you now get an 80 min long cd for the same price £13-14, but the vinyl is £45 WHAT A RIP-OFF.
After hearing the singles, there was no chance of me spending 77 minutes listening to more of the same. These days, I pretty firmly believe no album should be more than an hour long. I don't remember the last time I heard one longer that couldn't have been pared down and made better for it.
I've listened to it about 5 times since Friday and it's definitely growing on me. 'If darkness had a son' has been stuck in my head for a while now so that's usually a good sign. Lux aeterna, crown of barbed wire, and too far gone are my favorites so far. James sounds very good. Still need more time with it. Pete I agree about how I can't see the setlist without opening up the whole thing. I like how there are back to there thrash/heavy sound like death magnetic and hardwired. I thought both those albums were very good. If I remember correctly, Kirk lost an iPod with riffs a few years ago. Wonder how much of that is on 72 seasons.
I'd say none of it, he never found it. And honestly, that's either bullshit, or the most irresponsible thing he could do. He doesn't put effort into the solos anymore, so at least bring some riffs to the table. They've got a full time staff of minions. Nobody ever set up a back up service on his phone? Does anyone believe he lost all his photos and whatnot on his phone? I sure as hell don't. I think he just had nothing.
I think the album is good, feels more inspired than the last few. I agree they should’ve cut some material that was unnecessary to make it more tight and focused. Songs like “Too Far Gone”, “Room of Mirrors”, and “Chasing Light” don’t do a whole lot and are forgettable. Kirk’s solos the usual wah wah and Lars’ drumming basic (with the occasional and needed fill) but the rest is good. Favorite track: 72 Seasons(self titled, opener). Not a fan of the album cover but overall a 3/5. Kind of in the middle. Stuff we’ve heard before but also some cool moments. Honestly, just glad they’re still around and will finally get to see them this October.
I'm not a die hard fan...just interested in new music...I really like this new album. I've read a lot of reviews and rankings and no two new song rankings are the same...I think that's a good sign
You summed it up a decent modern day Metallica album. I listened to it last week on a decent drive to pick up my kid and I was still on the last track when I pulled in the driveway. I don't mind long songs when it's entertaining enough that I don't look to check when a song ends. I definitely looked a few times here.
This album was meh on first listen…but then I saw them live. If darkness had a son is amazing, one of the best songs of the night and a new favorite. The title track l, inamorata and too far gone have grown on me and now are constant replays. Great album
I agree about the packaging. At first I liked it since I’ve never seen something like it, but trying to get it out while driving is a pain. Also would have like the band logo and track listing. To me musically it’s between Death Magnetic and Hardwired. I’ve listened all the way through 4 times and it’s still growing on me. Hoping we don’t have to wait so long for the next one.
Great review, actually had me laughing quite a bit at your understandable frustration of the ridiculous packaging, forgetting the name of the album, etc. For me, Metallica is a long spent force that hasn’t done anything remotely exceptional in well over 30 years. I tried the last couple & experienced a similar fatigue, which I also expect with this one. Sigh, oh well.
hardwired was a slog but not this one ….for me.enjoy playing this one play it everyday.out of the last 3 it’s number 2 can’t beat death magnetic for me 🤘🏻
Just like the Beatles, they recorded their best albums within the first seven years of the band's history ... The difference is that the Beatles knew when to stop and Metallica didn't ...
Thanks for the straight up review Pete. I agree with your points. 'If Darkness has a Son' feels like a classic'. On his review Martin said it would be more interesting to review the reviews! Maybe you guys could take the topic of reviews for a Fun House episode or 2? E.g. What do you look for in reviews, or how much notice should we take of them, how entertaining/informative should they be, fave magazines for reviews, do you prefer reviews from genre specific sources or from outlets that review various genres, etc. P.s. I dig the Wednesday reviews, it's a great for us viewers to hear about new music!
I liked the last 2 albums quite a bit. But do not return to them Much. 72 seasons took a while for me. It is a daunting album to get through. There are no bad tracks. 2 months later I have to admit I am returning to 72 Seasons quite a bit. Also the album is going by quick for me now.
Hetfield is a beast on this record. It's the "Drummer" that drags it down. Has a lot of New wave of British heavy metal influence on it. 72 seasons, Screaming sucide, lux eterna and room full of mirrors are really good. They just got to trim alot of that grove metal they like jamming to on the others. The packaging and cover suck. 3.75 out of 5. It's good could be better with a drummer not afraid of fills and rack toms.
I really like this album, watched the premiere in the cinema and James said that Lux Aeterna is one of the hardest songs to play because of the pace and downpicking. My least favourite song would be Crown of Barbed Wire but still listenable. If I'm still doing what they're doing when im hitting 60+ i'd be more than happy 😅
Hey Pete what you said was spot-on it reminds me of hardwired to self destruct and death magnetic sprinkled in with a little bit of reload. For me I personally like hardwired to self destruct better
Great review, Pete! I really enjoyed this album from the very first listen. I don't listen to Metallica nearly as much these days as I used to, and I'm not one of those fans who just thinks every single thing they've released is the best thing ever. But this one was very enjoyable for me from the get-go. I've enjoyed the last 3 albums quite a bit, and I do believe this is their best album since "...And Justice for All" (I've never been a huge fan of the highly overrated Black Album). James sounds great, and the songwriting is really solid. I've probably played it about 19 or 20 times through since its release. It would rank #5 in their catalog, just behind the 4 classics, for me.
Some cool riffs in Screaming Suicide, Shadows Follow and Room of Mirrors. Lyrically James does a fine job. Really dug Lux Aeterna when it came out and the final song is really strong. The rest of the album sounds very conservative to me, making it hard to revisit it and thus I give it a 3 out of 5. Let's see how well these songs play live.
@@frank.s.castro, I probably would've removed the 4th and/or 5th track and replaced it with something slower like Halo of Fire or Unforgiven IV (LOLOL). You know what I mean. Definitely needed to trim some fat but then I see that issue w/ a few other bands.
@@tomp4053 I feel Hardwired had a lot of hit and miss moments, but there were some kick ass songs too and yeah! I didn't like Halo at first tbh until I saw that live. version.
i have not listened to metallica since st anger!! wrapping it up is a puzzle lol !! i gave the album 4.0minus stars, i thought it was pretty good!! i would slot it equel to load , in that area, it is overlong , clocking in at 70plus minutes, my fav songs are sleepwalk my life away, and you must burn!!it actually was a litter better than i expected, but if metallica fans were expecting early sounding metallica , that band is gone for good!! the shark has been jumped , Cheers!!🐯🐯
You must be the only one I know (I don't personally know you) that thinks this album is just ok. At the start I did, but now after several listens I think it's great. But I def do agree with you re the song lengths ie they should be MUCH shorter
As far as the packaging goes...... I just fold the flaps over in backward order of the when the members joined...... Put the booklet in there 'n fold Robert over it, then, Kirk, Lars 'n finally James....... Mine fits back into the sleeve better that way!
...Hey Pete! Nice work as always...hopefully you are making copys of your cds for the car. I "lost" several CDs over the years in my seat rail when pushing my seat back. 🙂
If you are going to have a 77 minute album, then you have to have some variety. Where is the Call of Ktulu, Fade to Black, Orion, or some type of ballad or offbeat song. If an album is going to sound the same all the way through, then it should be about 40 to 45 minutes tops.
He sounds great! It'll probably never happen but it Metallica ever disbanded James could do a lot worse than keep Rob on get 2 up and coming youngsters to play drums and lead guitar and see what happens!
Well, Metallica are on the very, very top of the food chain. That offers them numerous opportunities. Of which not a single one has anything to do with vocal enhancement... Now re-listen the album and listen closely.
@@zacharyseibert4526 For a fact Hetfield uses vocal enhancement on stage since the early 90s. It's naive to think they don't use it on stage and while recording nowadays. Got it now, Zach?
You must burn is #1 song for me in this album. The main riff, the lyrics, the solo, the outro riff.. Just wow.
It's a tough spot for a band to be in: It's trendy to love them.... and it's also trendy to hate everything they put out.
This is the first Metallica album I've ever listened to that is a grower. I didn't like it at first but it grows on you after 3-4 listens. It's nothing amazing but its a solid, consistent album.
It’s an 8.5 fs
Thanks for the review Pete. I disagree with most of what you said here, as I love the album. Metallica’s last three albums have provided so much good stuff and this is no exception. I particularly love Luc AEterna, Shadows Follow and Screaming Suicide. May there be many more Metallica albums like this!
Metallica have the security of knowing that whatever they release, people will always say “at least it isn’t St Anger.”
I will take St. Anger over anything they did in the 90's.
The Black Album is miles better than St Anger.
that's why they release 'St Anger'!! it's a 50 yr plan! 🤣🤣🤣
While in fact St Anger is way better than THIS.
And the issue of people always comparing their work to the first 4 albums. It goes both ways.
Feels like no matter what Metallica does, people will bitch about it a lot.
Pete, I recommend covering the Dodheimsgard album that was released the same day as the new Metallica. Extremely unique progressive/avantgarde black metal.
No Metallica album grew on me as much as this one... The more I listen to it the more I like it. This album deserves a chance. I thought Pete, as you are big Sabbath fan, you will really enjoy new Metallica stuff. :) Some songs (like Sleepwalk my life away) remind me Sabotage, overall Sabbath influence is present... Groovy, heavy album with memorable harmonies. Best Metallica album in years, in my opinion.
Only Metallica album in years.....
nah theres no sabbath resemblence in this album...apart from opening riff on last track, i do like few tracks but the rest is same old same old like there last few albums (which i dont like) ps give me sabbath anydays...tho i am from bham uk....home of sabbath ha..
@@smofla13 right?? I heard a little Sabbath on the last track but nothing to write home about. Take away Kirk's wah wah for god sakes, no 5 string bass, and James needs to stop yarrrling. You know when a guy like that is using an old Elvis mic you're in trouble. I want ripping solos and gruff vocals. Lol.
You would think with all the attention to Master of Puppets recently they'd know what people want. And Stranger Things wasn't playing Load. Or even the lame Black Album. I know it sold a bazillion albums but they aren't selling that many albums nowadays. Give the fans what they want. Please.
I'm not really sure what Godsmack or Nickelback sound like but I've heard that they have the modern Metallica style taken care of.
@@captainkirk70 woudnt know meself..cant be dealin woth nickleback
Definitely a "grower" for me. I don't think the length is bad myself. Really like the Sabbath vibe that a lot of the songs have. For me, nothing feels like filler this time around, at least after 4-5 listens. If you look at Metallica's career in "eras" of the bass players, this is to me the best of the "Trujillo Era," for lack of a better way of putting it. Does it stand up to the classics? Probably not, but it's a solid album.
Def not
What's the deal with the lemon yellow theme in this??
I like Hardwired more than 72, mainly because I've listened to it more. I find albums with lengthy songs to be more rewarding upon further listening, unless they are endless jams.
I listened to the whole thing. I like it. I haven't listened to all of their latter cds. Lux is a great song to work out to.
It’s definitely growing on me with each listen
Love the band. Decent modern album. I’m getting what your saying about time wise. I think the new Extreme album is shaping up sounding like what Metallica should of been aiming for. The first tracks of their new album is rocking! Nuno is off the charts here. Can’t wait for the rest.
As if Kirk could play like Nuno dream on
I wouldn't have minded a song like Halo of Fire placed as track 5 or 6 to change pace. Another shorter would've been nice.
Fav songs so far are 72 Seasons, Inamorata, Room of Mirrors, If Darkness Has a Son
I have 2 problems with new Metallica:
1). Songs are too long
2). Lars drumming is too simple
Because of these two aspects I think 77 min is too long. But hey, there are a lot of rock fans who like it. So I am happy for them, it is great to like music and to have your own favourite band.
3). I would also add lead solos.
Exactly the drumming is soooo simple, I mean check the new overkill 🤷🏼♂️
You make a good point about Lars.
Cut the songs in half and it would leave more energy and creativity for the drums. Same with the rest of the band.
long songs and simple drumming started on kill ‘em all,why complain 40 years later?
As long as they don't go the same route as Iron Maiden and make multiple albums of pretentious, boring, long crap.
The day Kirk Hammett discovered the wah-wah pedal (the Black album) was the death of good guitar solos from him.
He has a few hidden good ones on Load and Reload
I don’t like the overuse of wah-wah in general and Kirk just isn’t very good at it.
yep
Kirk has been using wah since the first album. But the difference is, he's been over using it since hardwired.
Used it in almost every Justice album solo also. That was when wah took over.
"Inamorata", "Crown of Barbed Wire" and the title track are my favs. It's a long album tho, but enough to enjoy for modern Metallica.
Those 3 songs are definitely the best of the bunch.
I like the album. Solid release, 40 years after the debut. That doesn’t happen very often with 3 of 4 members from the debut still around.
So far, I like Hardwired and Death Magnetic more.
Love Death Magnetic just wish the production was better
As a fan of Metallica since 1985. The reality is, they peaked at the Black album. Most rock and metal bands do their best creative and innovative music when they are young. Chalk it up to being hungry and not having been influenced by the business. Everything else is derivative and screams desperation to stay relevant. That's one of the reasons Sting disbanded The Police. A legendary great band. He knew that they could top what they had already produced and was best to end on top!
Great post. Was just thinking that earlier today- who are the only huge bands who made a conscious decision to forego the money and end it? Beatles, Zeppelin,Police. Some like Skynyrd and the Eagles tried and caved.
How cool would it have been if Lars and James after the black tour said - that’s it. We did it. All downhill from here.
This review is hilarious! 72 years 🤣
I think your review is spot on Pete. I would give it 3.5 stars. I do think this is better effort than Hardwired (not a fan of that album here). You can tell Metallica tried to make this deeper and more complex album. However, it does feel bloated a bit and as you pointed our, trimming down so it is around 60 minutes would have helped. On Jimmy Fallon, they did shorter version Darkness had son that was fantastic live. Had more punch. Highlights for me are Darkness had a son (my favorite track), Ianmorata, Lux, and Sleepwalk. I think it is a little worse than Death Magnetic overall. This definitely isn't return to first five, that will never happen but it was better than I expected it too be.
the endless complaining about the packaging had me in tears, good job :))
Why the fuss over the cover not having the band's name? Most Pink Floyd album covers are nameless and title-less. As is Abbey Road, Zep 4, In the Court of the Crimson King, to name just a few that are considered iconic.
I agree Pete, i am really bothered by the M in the corner. Why not the full MetallicA in black across the cover?
I like it enough, but I agree that it's way too long. Also, the first thing I did was put the disc in an extra jewel case that I had laying around. Screw that packaging. I do want to say that I like the new Overkill a lot more. Thanks, Pete!
good to see an album for all kind of Metallica fans: those who liked it and those who will get their Insomnia cured
I don't think anyone is going to fall asleep to this record!
@@colico14 I'm snoozing, it's so fucking boring and repetitive
@@errolhenderson5665 This is so repetitive it’s ridiculous. Metallica just don’t have the range to pull off an album like this. And at times it sounds like Dream Theater lite. Or any number of 2000’s metalcore type bands. B grade modern prog rock/thrash type of sound. Not very good.
I give it a solid B grade....I really enjoy the production it does not sound compressed and or distorted like Death Magnetic. Also James vocals and lyrics pulls this through as well.
B- for me
Rather take st anger so 💀/10
I like the record. Still listening to it as I will know for sure if I start humming the songs while at work then I know it's a good one.
I love this record. There’s not a single track I feel like skipping over.
This is moderate. Not gonna give em my money. I think they should be embarrassed. Go way back to what made them Mighty Metallica or retire. They've completely lost their earlier fanbase. Sad but true.
I skip the whole album all day long
@@scottricci5063They should be embarrassed for making the music they want as an artist? That's just silly.
@@scottricci5063 most ate near dead
@@Octavian2 no, for selling out and drinking bud light.
I also found the album a little lackluster compared to Death Magnetic and Hardwired, but you're SO wrong about the middle of Inamorata. Arguably, the other songs would have benefited from more varied dynamics. I'm a post-rock instrumental fan, so I live for that build/peak cycle.
I think it's a good album. Some really good riffs. My problem is the lead solos, they're not good and make the songs seem longer than they are.
highlights: 'Crown of Barbed Wire' through 'Too Far Gone'
Been waiting to hear what you think of this one, Pete. Hetfield, as always saves the day. Decent record, I miss that crispy old-school production so much these days, but at least the bass is audible I guess! Cheers Pete.
This album rocks!!. I have no problem with the lenght of the album. Why should I spend $15 for an lp that's 40 minutes?. Get more for your buck!
I agree the packaging sucks. I disagree with everything else you said in the video
To me it’s another “you took 7 years and THIS is what you came up with?!”
Perfect review. I agree with everything Pete said, except for the fact that I loved "Shadows Follow".
LOL The Jethro Tull shirt. I didn't even realize it until you mentioned it. As for the album, I just recently reviewed it for my website. I liked it overall and feel that James was on point lyrically and vocally on most tracks. However the album does suffer from being a tad too long and I would prefer shorter songs.
Great point about James' vocals, the album is decent, but if James ever wants to go into the studio with an acoustic and do a solo album, I'd be up for that!
@@nickvickers3486 Absolutely. He sounds invigorated on this album.
I listened to it three times in full by the end of the third time, I was done with it. I already know I will never play it ever again.
I try, but it's the same vibe I got from Hardwire: very predictable and conservative. If they are not capable of great writing anymore, at least they should care about their tone. Even Load/Reload had great sound. This excerpt of Pete's review defines the whole album for me: "Kirk tosses a few bits we've heard too many times before; chorus doesn't grab... I dunno, they're trying really hard to give us something they know people really grab onto, but doesn't really work. It's ok, not terrible, not great either."
Completely disagree with his review. Some great tracks. Incredible riffs. Blasted it in the car and it sounded even better. I have no issue with Lars drumming! He's perfect for this band.
I think Metallica's problem (and by problem, I mean not being able to rekindle the magic of those original 4 albums) has been money, fame and success. Not that there's anything at all wrong with that and part of me is glad they achieved such so it could bring recognition for their early work. The problem I always feel is that if you achieve such money, fame and success you've lost the capacity and perspective on life to write songs like those early ones. The youth, angst and anger is placated by the almighty dollar.
I absolutely agree with you. The band simply became too big for their own artistic good. Once the hunger was gone, the music began to slip. They've spent the last 30+ years trying to recapture the magic of those 80s records to little avail. I admire that they're really trying to write the best records they can, but given their success, it's virtually impossible to come up with anything even approaching the quality of old Metallica. It is what it is. Credit must be given for being 60 years old and still playing fast, aggressive metal, though. Metallica aren't the Stones or Aerosmith. It's not the easiest music to play. Also, the fact that they're going strong is a big part of keeping rock music commercially alive. All in all, considering everything, I think "72 Seasons" is a relative win.
They might just be bored with thrash. Like they could feel that they and other bands wrung everything out of the genre that can be. And maybe they're right about that but it leaves them in a tough spot because their fans are always going to be dissatisfied whenever they deviate from it.
@@colico14 well said. Couldn’t agree more. And I should clarify, I don’t dislike most of their modern stuff at all. In fact I quite like it and they’re good at what they do. I just think recapturing any of the former thrash glory on a whole album is beyond them.
Most will disagree but Metallica just aren’t very good at being a rock band, which is where they went after the early thrash days. They wanted to broaden the palette, which is fine, but I don’t think they had the songwriting chops and range to really pull it off. The black album is commendable but they never recovered after it.
See; I was hoping that
Lyrically he would lay off the personal, emotional, anguish thing. I don't mind that he's gone there, but what more is there to say about it?
Look at all the bad shit going on in the world today. I'd think plenty of juicy writing material for agressive metal music.
Are they fat and happy financially? Sure. But who wasn't pissed about the handling of Covid, the conspiracy theories around it. All this woke shit, war mongers all over the planet.
For one album cycle, go back to external sources of inspiration. It may give the music a kick in the ass as a result.
Petes review is spot on.I’m struggling with this album .There are some good songs however it’s too long and I find it an ordeal to listen to from start to finish.I totally agree with comments on the packaging it totally sucks
That packaging... if the prices ever come down I might take a punt on the cassette!
They should have cut like 10-15 minutes of it but other than that, it's pretty good.
Regardless of the opinions presented here; this is by far my most favorite review I've ever watched on SOT....hilarious, spontaneous and brutally honest! the end of the video had me spitting out my coffee laughing, more of this please Pete!
I am with you. " Here's your dinner sir".😂😂😂
@@scottmcgregor4829 hahaha that was funny!
I wrote this off on first listen but on repeats it is really starting to shine. It's a very dense album for sure but the more I listen the more I like. Hardwired had more variety but also way more clunkers and I grew tired of it pretty quickly but this is starting to stick and I keep finding interesting new things that has me going back. If it keeps growing on me like this it may surpass Death Magnetic...
This review was hilarious! Pete seemed irritated by this album.
This is one of the few truly honest and objective reviews of this album that I’ve come across. I can always count on you, Pete, for a no BS review. Most I’ve seen were glowing slobber fests by millennial Metallica fanboys and I questioned if we even heard the same album. I just don’t trust the “Metallica can do no wrong” set.
Anyway, I listened to the album in it’s entirety when it was released last Friday at Midnight and I was basically left not feeling much other than it was too long and too samey sounding in a lot of parts. There are definitely some standout moments that caught my ear but overall I just wasn’t feeling a lot of it. I did enjoy the Sabbathy Doom vibe on a few songs but I’ve tried listening to the album a few times since then but it seems like a chore to get through it all. Favorite tracks so far are the title track, Sleepwalk My Life Away, Lux Aeterna, and Inamorata.
you've seen millennials praising this one? that surprises me. i'm right on the cusp of millennial and gen x (1981) and i can't imagine someone younger than me giving a single care about this album, or heck even this band!
@@cyrollan they’re all over RUclips you can find them easily. Only two or three others were this objective. Many that I saw were hyper-positive to the point of cringe. And why do you assume Millennials wouldn’t care about this band? From what I observed those that were 10-12 years old when The Black album was released, i.e., your generation, got into Metallica big time. I think your comment is more appropriate for Gen Z or anyone born after 2000.
A sign that an album is good imo is when I put it on repeat - I consider it a very good sounding, well made concept album (albums I hate, that are very bad are (re)load and St. Anger).
Other latest albums I put on repeat are the ones from AC/DC and Black Box Revelation.
I'm lovin' the new Metallica album myself! As for the cd packaging... i agree... cumbersome. Not quite as bad as Ace Frehley's "Anomaly" cd though. Lol. 🤘
I was laughing so hard at the criticism of the packaging
Sam I am
I had no idea the packaging was like that. Mix in all that yellow with the burnt toys, haggard faces, and Jethro Tull shirt, I was laughing through the entire video😂
I hate it when artists sometimes have neither name nor album title on the front cover, it never made any sense to me it can only confuse consumers, I remember in the past going through racks coming across albums and initially you'd have no clue who it was.
@@perpetualmotion357 Yeah it's like everybody's worse ideas were put together and they said : Let's go with that!
@@stephanea5364 Those rich, board room people are always out of touch and at this point I think Metallica may be too. It's the old "Metallica are an entity amongst themselves, they don't even need a logo anymore" thing..
Lux eterna and 72 seasons I really like. sounded great live as well in Montreal this past weekend. Their non repeat concert tour is Awsome! I recommend all Metallica fans to go if they come to your city
I had no problem with the song length. It’s a solid album. I can listen to from start to finish ❤
Thanks for listening & Reviewing Pete, I'm not going Anywhere Near this....
Loved the album. Their best since Black, easily.
I enjoyed this review!
I’ve been watching lots of them from people with 1000 followers to hundreds of thousands. It’s always interesting to hear the spread from blah to great.
Interestingly, my father who has always avoided MetallicA (most likely due to the fact that he heard so much of it when I was learning how to play) went to the Global Listening party with me and enjoyed a number of songs! His favorite jam was the long ass “Inamorata.” It’s cool how each album can pick up some new fans.
I’ve listened quite a few times now and as a guitar player, it’s a solid album. There are lots of riffs that I want to play because they make me move without a guitar. I find myself bobbing and weaving with many of the twisted parts.
James’ vocals are objectively really good and the harmonies are interesting. I was actually surprised by the number of key changes and also surprised to hear major chords and keys.
Kirk’s solos are less purposeful and seemingly superfluous on many tracks. In other songs he’s providing effect. Lars’ drumming serves the song. IMO if you are going to have a sh*t ton of riffology, the drums can’t be insane without detracting from the riffs.
Rob is providing a solid foundation throughout. I like HEARING the bass, and he has an amazing tone. His vocal parts really suited him as well.
As far as the packaging is concerned, I think it is arbitrary 😂 These days, people do most things digitally through streaming or DLing .wav files. The digipak took me back a bit; this package harkens back to what I used to love about album releases.
It’s almost like getting to hold the music the way you do with a vinyl record. The vinyl is nice and thick and has a good frequency capture.
I didn’t mean to leave my own review here, but I enjoyed yours and was inspired to put in my two cents.
You have a new follower 🤘🏼
Been enjoying the album a bit more after one week. Also been enjoying new Overkill more with each listen.
As most people say its a grower, in the 70s an album was 40 mins long you now get an 80 min long cd for the same price £13-14, but the vinyl is £45 WHAT A RIP-OFF.
After hearing the singles, there was no chance of me spending 77 minutes listening to more of the same. These days, I pretty firmly believe no album should be more than an hour long. I don't remember the last time I heard one longer that couldn't have been pared down and made better for it.
👍🏻 45 minutes are enough. The best albums are even shorter. OK, Kill Em All is almost an hour and has 100% hits on it, but that's an exception.
Give it a couple listens from start all the way through a couple times. I bet you you will come around.
LOL, that CD packaging does look wild, origami. The vinyl packaging is great, nice gatefold.
In the middle of this record I realised that I was just wasting my time and went to listen to Master of Puppets instead
Pete if you had to do your Metallica album ranking today or was this album? PS I love that ranking episode you did with Steve
Always count on you for an honest review. Thanks.
I agree with you when popping the CD in a car, I bought it from B&N it was kind of confusing at first. Packaging is not that impressive.
Man, I love room of mirrors, maybe the best song on the album.
I've listened to it about 5 times since Friday and it's definitely growing on me. 'If darkness had a son' has been stuck in my head for a while now so that's usually a good sign. Lux aeterna, crown of barbed wire, and too far gone are my favorites so far. James sounds very good. Still need more time with it. Pete I agree about how I can't see the setlist without opening up the whole thing. I like how there are back to there thrash/heavy sound like death magnetic and hardwired. I thought both those albums were very good. If I remember correctly, Kirk lost an iPod with riffs a few years ago. Wonder how much of that is on 72 seasons.
I'd say none of it, he never found it. And honestly, that's either bullshit, or the most irresponsible thing he could do. He doesn't put effort into the solos anymore, so at least bring some riffs to the table. They've got a full time staff of minions. Nobody ever set up a back up service on his phone?
Does anyone believe he lost all his photos and whatnot on his phone? I sure as hell don't.
I think he just had nothing.
Funny because Crash of the Crown by Styx, the songs could have used another minute on them they were so good.
Fully agree. I thought that album was way too short. I wanted more.
Didnt listen to it yet, but the perspective of listening to 80 minutes of Lars drumming is already making me feel sad
I think the album is good, feels more inspired than the last few. I agree they should’ve cut some material that was unnecessary to make it more tight and focused. Songs like “Too Far Gone”, “Room of Mirrors”, and “Chasing Light” don’t do a whole lot and are forgettable. Kirk’s solos the usual wah wah and Lars’ drumming basic (with the occasional and needed fill) but the rest is good. Favorite track: 72 Seasons(self titled, opener). Not a fan of the album cover but overall a 3/5. Kind of in the middle. Stuff we’ve heard before but also some cool moments. Honestly, just glad they’re still around and will finally get to see them this October.
Just think that you mentioned 3 of my favourite songs in this record 😂
It's a decent album I prefer death magnetic forsure.
I'm not a die hard fan...just interested in new music...I really like this new album. I've read a lot of reviews and rankings and no two new song rankings are the same...I think that's a good sign
Love old Metallica debate whether to give this one a try I just might just don't want to be let down again Thanks Pete
You summed it up a decent modern day Metallica album. I listened to it last week on a decent drive to pick up my kid and I was still on the last track when I pulled in the driveway. I don't mind long songs when it's entertaining enough that I don't look to check when a song ends. I definitely looked a few times here.
It’s a grower, the more I listen to it the more I like it
This album was meh on first listen…but then I saw them live. If darkness had a son is amazing, one of the best songs of the night and a new favorite. The title track l, inamorata and too far gone have grown on me and now are constant replays. Great album
I agree about the packaging. At first I liked it since I’ve never seen something like it, but trying to get it out while driving is a pain. Also would have like the band logo and track listing. To me musically it’s between Death Magnetic and Hardwired. I’ve listened all the way through 4 times and it’s still growing on me. Hoping we don’t have to wait so long for the next one.
Great review, actually had me laughing quite a bit at your understandable frustration of the ridiculous packaging, forgetting the name of the album, etc. For me, Metallica is a long spent force that hasn’t done anything remotely exceptional in well over 30 years. I tried the last couple & experienced a similar fatigue, which I also expect with this one. Sigh, oh well.
And I think the album is great, no fillers and some song that stand proud along the best of metallica (the last 4, the title song, the second one).
hardwired was a slog but not this one ….for me.enjoy playing this one play it everyday.out of the last 3 it’s number 2 can’t beat death magnetic for me 🤘🏻
Really good album
Seeing Pete unpackaged that monstrosity just to get to the actual cd cracked me up for some reason
Lol it triggered my anxiety 😊
That is one hideous album cover and ridiculous packaging.
lol. I laugh a couple of times in his review ahahhahaha
Just like the Beatles, they recorded their best albums within the first seven years of the band's history ...
The difference is that the Beatles knew when to stop and Metallica didn't ...
Thanks for the straight up review Pete. I agree with your points. 'If Darkness has a Son' feels like a classic'. On his review Martin said it would be more interesting to review the reviews! Maybe you guys could take the topic of reviews for a Fun House episode or 2?
E.g. What do you look for in reviews, or how much notice should we take of them, how entertaining/informative should they be, fave magazines for reviews, do you prefer reviews from genre specific sources or from outlets that review various genres, etc. P.s. I dig the Wednesday reviews, it's a great for us viewers to hear about new music!
I liked the last 2 albums quite a bit. But do not return to them Much. 72 seasons took a while for me. It is a daunting album to get through. There are no bad tracks. 2 months later I have to admit I am returning to 72 Seasons quite a bit. Also the album is going by quick for me now.
Can’t wait to hear your review on this, bought it on Sunday still trying to digest this album.
Same with me. I miss the old guitar crunch sound of classic era. Now their sound is more like AC/DC than "thrash metal"
Hetfield is a beast on this record. It's the "Drummer" that drags it down.
Has a lot of New wave of British heavy metal influence on it.
72 seasons, Screaming sucide, lux eterna and room full of mirrors are really good. They just got to trim alot of that grove metal they like jamming to on the others.
The packaging and cover suck.
3.75 out of 5.
It's good could be better with a drummer not afraid of fills and rack toms.
I really like this album, watched the premiere in the cinema and James said that Lux Aeterna is one of the hardest songs to play because of the pace and downpicking. My least favourite song would be Crown of Barbed Wire but still listenable. If I'm still doing what they're doing when im hitting 60+ i'd be more than happy 😅
Hey Pete what you said was spot-on it reminds me of hardwired to self destruct and death magnetic sprinkled in with a little bit of reload. For me I personally like hardwired to self destruct better
Great review, Pete! I really enjoyed this album from the very first listen. I don't listen to Metallica nearly as much these days as I used to, and I'm not one of those fans who just thinks every single thing they've released is the best thing ever. But this one was very enjoyable for me from the get-go. I've enjoyed the last 3 albums quite a bit, and I do believe this is their best album since "...And Justice for All" (I've never been a huge fan of the highly overrated Black Album). James sounds great, and the songwriting is really solid. I've probably played it about 19 or 20 times through since its release. It would rank #5 in their catalog, just behind the 4 classics, for me.
Jethro Tull shirt would have been a good joke if you wore it on purpose Pete.
Some cool riffs in Screaming Suicide, Shadows Follow and Room of Mirrors. Lyrically James does a fine job. Really dug Lux Aeterna when it came out and the final song is really strong.
The rest of the album sounds very conservative to me, making it hard to revisit it and thus I give it a 3 out of 5.
Let's see how well these songs play live.
Hey Frank, definitely sounds like a safe album.
@@tomp8463 Definitely Tom. Too safe, Maybe?
@@frank.s.castro, in a way yes. I suppose it could've been better but also could've been worse. LOL
@@frank.s.castro, I probably would've removed the 4th and/or 5th track and replaced it with something slower like Halo of Fire or Unforgiven IV (LOLOL). You know what I mean. Definitely needed to trim some fat but then I see that issue w/ a few other bands.
@@tomp4053 I feel Hardwired had a lot of hit and miss moments, but there were some kick ass songs too and yeah! I didn't like Halo at first tbh until I saw that live. version.
Hey Pete where do you rank this album in their discography ?
Ask me in a few months...I've only had the CD for 5 days.
i have not listened to metallica since st anger!! wrapping it up is a puzzle lol !! i gave the album 4.0minus stars, i thought it was pretty good!! i would slot it equel to load , in that area, it is overlong , clocking in at 70plus minutes, my fav songs are sleepwalk my life away, and you must burn!!it actually was a litter better than i expected, but if metallica fans were expecting early sounding metallica , that band is gone for good!! the shark has been jumped , Cheers!!🐯🐯
I'm on board with your synopsis. It was okay... I suppose, but then I heard Overkill's new release. Now THAT one is fire!
You must be the only one I know (I don't personally know you) that thinks this album is just ok. At the start I did, but now after several listens I think it's great. But I def do agree with you re the song lengths ie they should be MUCH shorter
As far as the packaging goes...... I just fold the flaps over in backward order of the when the members joined...... Put the booklet in there 'n fold Robert over it, then, Kirk, Lars 'n finally James....... Mine fits back into the sleeve better that way!
I think that the new Extreme album seems more promising overall.
...Hey Pete! Nice work as always...hopefully you are making copys of your cds for the car. I "lost" several CDs over the years in my seat rail when pushing my seat back. 🙂
Well no need to make copies of anything cause my new car doesn't have a CD player!
If you are going to have a 77 minute album, then you have to have some variety. Where is the Call of Ktulu, Fade to Black, Orion, or some type of ballad or offbeat song. If an album is going to sound the same all the way through, then it should be about 40 to 45 minutes tops.
LOL, the camera didn't like showing the yellow; the picture went dark! :-P
Great album. Hetfield sounds killer on it!
He sounds great! It'll probably never happen but it Metallica ever disbanded James could do a lot worse than keep Rob on get 2 up and coming youngsters to play drums and lead guitar and see what happens!
Well, Metallica are on the very, very top of the food chain.
That offers them numerous opportunities.
Of which not a single one has anything to do with vocal enhancement...
Now re-listen the album and listen closely.
@@Geiermeier WTF are you rambling about?
@@zacharyseibert4526 For a fact Hetfield uses vocal enhancement on stage since the early 90s.
It's naive to think they don't use it on stage and while recording nowadays.
Got it now, Zach?
@@Geiermeier Yeah, ok. New album is fuckin great.