Death Magnetic
by Metallica
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 715 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 578 out of 715
  2. Mixed: 58 out of 715
  3. Negative: 79 out of 715

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  1. ChrisF.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Good stuff! Makes me forgive St. Anger.
  2. MarkM.
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    Thank you Rick Rubin for freeing Kirk Hammett--his solos have been sorely missed.
  3. AliM.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Metallica's best work in 17 years!!!!!!!
  4. AlejandroC.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    a remarkable return to form. this album is a shot in the arm for old school Metallica fans who were convinced it could never happen like this again. It has. Thank You Rick Rubin. Thank You Metallica.
  5. MarioD.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Damn good songs.
  6. whiplash
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    Big dose of metal. Actually the biggest since the 80's. This album is their best since AJFA. Great job Metallica!
  7. Talos
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    Epic riffs. Strong performance from James and Kirk goes ballistic. Energetic and brutal album which sounds like the band is having fun again. Best album since AJFA.
  8. MyBusiness
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    The best Metallica album for 20 years. Awesome.
  9. MehdiM.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    It fucking rocks the hell out of all metallica hater. It's amazing, fabulous, fantastic. Long Live Metallica !!!
  10. StephenF.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    A punch in the ribs. Thats how it feels to hear the new metallica effort. A true return to form and (finally) another 'proper' metallica album to stand up alongside Puppets Lightning and Justice. ANY fan of heavy metal needs to own this album, just like they do Metallica's Master of Puppets, Machine Head's The Blackening and Megadeth's Rust In Peace. A modern and A punch in the ribs. Thats how it feels to hear the new metallica effort. A true return to form and (finally) another 'proper' metallica album to stand up alongside Puppets Lightning and Justice. ANY fan of heavy metal needs to own this album, just like they do Metallica's Master of Puppets, Machine Head's The Blackening and Megadeth's Rust In Peace. A modern and future classic.… Expand
  11. JohannesP.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Very good album, and there isn't any filler songs!
  12. MikeD.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Incredible album. Start to finish, all quality songs. It has a new style but it rocks! Haven't stopped listening to it since I bought it. Album of the year!
  13. RonL.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Total kick A$$ album, get this disc, it will be the best album easily this year
  14. ShivR.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    A Metallica classic. Features an immense opener, scorching Instrumental and two of the best songs Metallica have ever done; All Nightmare Long and The Judas Kiss.
  15. Tom
    Sep 13, 2008
    8
    Some people are saying it almost has a St.Anger feeling, while it might, it's a lot more completed Metallica sound than their more recent albums. The whole album meshes really well from one song to another, I'd say this is a hit.
  16. Kumar
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Metallica come out swinging on this album. While I have been and will always be a Metallica fan, be it Reload or St. Anger, this album should and will make the old school thrasher fans to go rummaging through their wardrobe to find their old Metallica T-shirt so they can wear it again with pride while listening to Death Magnetic on their iPods with a sneer (and a smile) on their faces. Metallica come out swinging on this album. While I have been and will always be a Metallica fan, be it Reload or St. Anger, this album should and will make the old school thrasher fans to go rummaging through their wardrobe to find their old Metallica T-shirt so they can wear it again with pride while listening to Death Magnetic on their iPods with a sneer (and a smile) on their faces. Four thumbs way up!!… Expand
  17. BrianF.
    Sep 14, 2008
    9
    The album does not disappoint me in any way. Great riffs and solos. The only thing lacking is the drums.
  18. kaliss
    Sep 14, 2008
    8
    decent mix of old and new styles thrown onto "justicey" arrangements. this album does not redefine the metal genre but is very enjoyable. it seems to take the 'and justice for all' formula and make it more radio friendly. something like a missing link between justice and the black album but also combines the best elements of the newer material. production is a bit on the raw decent mix of old and new styles thrown onto "justicey" arrangements. this album does not redefine the metal genre but is very enjoyable. it seems to take the 'and justice for all' formula and make it more radio friendly. something like a missing link between justice and the black album but also combines the best elements of the newer material. production is a bit on the raw side and the audio clipping is a tad bit annoying. would've liked the production to blend justice and black album techniques to further compliment its the music. overall taking into consideration their age and where they're at in their careers, this is a very honest and genuine sounding album and it is what they ought to sound like at this stage of their lives. thankfully they're not trying to sound like and keep up with these newer metal acts who are still trying to pick apart old Metallica material. these new songs ought to be very fun and energetic when performed live.… Expand
  19. EliecerN.
    Sep 14, 2008
    9
    The music is excellent, but the production leaves a lot to be desired. Metallica did their homework, but not Rick Rubin. That´s why this album is not a 10.
  20. FrankR.
    Sep 14, 2008
    10
    This is the best album of 2008, and the best album Metallica have produced since "The Black Album".
  21. AlvaroL.
    Sep 14, 2008
    10
    Metallica is back. A very welcome return to their roots. That Was Just your Life is a killer opening track, solos are everywhere and they're pretty intense, Hammett style. This is definitely recommended to everyone wanting to get into Metallica, or to old fans who were lost during the Load/Reload/St Anger times. Definitely a worthy purchase.
  22. AaronK
    Sep 14, 2008
    9
    Once again, Pitchfork Media has made me laugh, by again, giving the lowest score to a Metallica album, twice in a row. It was ridiculous when it gave 2003's St.Anger an 8/100. Now, don't get me wrong, St.Anger was not a good record, but it didn't deserve an 8. In addition to that, the score that it gave to that album and this one was FAR below what every other critic gave Once again, Pitchfork Media has made me laugh, by again, giving the lowest score to a Metallica album, twice in a row. It was ridiculous when it gave 2003's St.Anger an 8/100. Now, don't get me wrong, St.Anger was not a good record, but it didn't deserve an 8. In addition to that, the score that it gave to that album and this one was FAR below what every other critic gave it. Pitchfork also says in their review that Death Magnetic is "essentially St. Anger with better riffs". Now tell me, in what damn way was this album ANYTHING like St. Anger. That album's theme was anger, this album's theme is death. St. Anger didn't have solos, this one does. St. Anger used different tuning, drums, and song structures than Death Magnetic. All in all, this shows how naive the critics at Pitchfork can be. Bias much as well?… Expand
  23. CathalH.
    Sep 14, 2008
    10
    Their best since "...And Justice For All" by a distance. This is the album Metallica fans have waited for for 20 years and it's bloody great!
  24. JohnF.
    Sep 15, 2008
    9
    Much better than i expected it. The opening track, "That was just your life" opens the album in the best possible way.
  25. RuudS.
    Sep 15, 2008
    9
    Fantastic "comeback" from the (re)load/st. anger era. lots of force in the songs. some tracks are utterly brilliant (especially cyanide and all nightmare long, which is, in my opinion, one of the best metal/rock songs of the year, if not the past few years). even though the songs are looooong, the don't really seem that way. unforgiven III seems a bit forced, but is a nice deviation Fantastic "comeback" from the (re)load/st. anger era. lots of force in the songs. some tracks are utterly brilliant (especially cyanide and all nightmare long, which is, in my opinion, one of the best metal/rock songs of the year, if not the past few years). even though the songs are looooong, the don't really seem that way. unforgiven III seems a bit forced, but is a nice deviation in the end. all in all, rock-solid album with it's share of fantastic tracks.… Expand
  26. SimonN.
    Sep 15, 2008
    9
    Best album by any artist since The Black Album in 91, without a doubt.
  27. SimonG.
    Sep 15, 2008
    7
    So basically, according to most critics, in order to be good, Metallica have to redo the Black Album over and over. I don't understand this. They've been in the business for 30 years and they can't try anything new? U2 have never been blame for taking various avenues. Well, I guess it all comes down to personal tastes. I say this because I really enjoyed St-Anger. I taught So basically, according to most critics, in order to be good, Metallica have to redo the Black Album over and over. I don't understand this. They've been in the business for 30 years and they can't try anything new? U2 have never been blame for taking various avenues. Well, I guess it all comes down to personal tastes. I say this because I really enjoyed St-Anger. I taught it was a great album with a solid garage sound. The songs were memorable and well written. It seems like a lot of people have a grudge against Bob Rock. I don't. So I wasn't waiting for Metallica's come back, because to me they never left. Now to Death Magnetic, while it's a great album, I don't understand where Rick Ruben did so much better than Bob Rock. The sound is still solid and sound a lot more like a studio album. Not a bad thing. I just don't see yet how the songs differentiate from each other. So far it all sounds like a 60 minutes long song after a few listening, which wasn… Expand
  28. SebastienF.
    Sep 16, 2008
    9
    Best album since the Black Album. Metallica's back baby !
  29. AaronL.
    Sep 16, 2008
    10
    F*ck the critics!! Metallica have just given the fans exactly what we wanted. They now have 4 great albums: RtL MoP AJFA DM.
  30. craigs.
    Sep 17, 2008
    8
    Throughout the 80's Metallica were the pioneers of thrash metal. They were a freight train of unrelenting speed and thought-provoking lyrics. Then in 1991, Metallica did something they always swore black and blue they would never do. They released "Metallica" aka the "Black" album and became a watered down, radio-friendly pop rock band. Gone were the 7-plus minute long tracks, one Throughout the 80's Metallica were the pioneers of thrash metal. They were a freight train of unrelenting speed and thought-provoking lyrics. Then in 1991, Metallica did something they always swore black and blue they would never do. They released "Metallica" aka the "Black" album and became a watered down, radio-friendly pop rock band. Gone were the 7-plus minute long tracks, one hundred mile an hour riffs and 10 minute long instrumentals. The latter having become a staple of every Metallica album. Following the release of "Load" I wrote Metallica off completely and branded them hypocrites. They became nothing more than Bon Jovi with slightly heavier guitars. Sure, this change in direction won them millions of new fans, but it lost them millions more of their long-time devoted ones. And the less said about St. Anger, the better. Then, when a mate of mine suggested that I should seriously consider picking up Metallica's latest "Death Magnetic" I was sceptical to say the least. So last week, I did something I haven't done in nearly 20 years. I added another Metallica album to my collection. Almost everything that I loved about the "old" Metallica has returned, long songs, intricate melodies, Hammett's electrifying solos and Hetfield's blistering riffs. Even the classic logo with the jagged "M" and"A" has returned. And last but not least, a ten minute instrumental. While not up to the standard of "Master" or "Lightning", it certainly has echoes of "And Justice". The songs are even structured in a very similar way. The opening track, "That Was Just Your Life" is much like "Blackened" "The Day That Never Comes" kind of like "One" and "My Apocalypse" sounds like "Dyer's Eve". There are a couple of tracks however, that feel as though they were written for "Load" or "Reload". "Cyanide", while being quite catchy, doesn't have as much punch as the rest of the album. And "The Unforgiven III" simply feels out of place. Hetfield has returned to his "Justice" sound vocally, but some of his lyrics are still stuck in the Load/Reload mindset. Lars' drumming is much more solid this time around and no longer sounds like he's bashing away on rubbish bins. Rob Trujillo, Jason Newstead's replacement, makes a fine debut with some chunky bass lines. And then there's Kirk Hammett. The master guitarist is back to what he does best. Solos. No-one rips it up like him. This is his best work since Kill 'Em All and that's all that needs to be said. So if you like your Metallica "old school" but wrote them off after the "black" album, give Death Magnetic a listen. It's not another Master Of Puppets, but it's definitely no St. Anger. And thank God for that.… Expand
  31. DustinM.
    Sep 17, 2008
    9
    It's fast, it's complex, it's beautiful,, it's Metallica!
  32. NeilS
    Sep 18, 2008
    7
    So it's finally here...the album meant to resurrect the career of (arguably) the world's most famous metal band. And the record succeeds in doing that - reminding us of the band's ability to create bone-crunching and mind-numbing heavy metal. But unlike their first few records, 'Death Magnetic' doesn't strike a chord with it's listeners. Don't know So it's finally here...the album meant to resurrect the career of (arguably) the world's most famous metal band. And the record succeeds in doing that - reminding us of the band's ability to create bone-crunching and mind-numbing heavy metal. But unlike their first few records, 'Death Magnetic' doesn't strike a chord with it's listeners. Don't know what I mean? Listen to some of their tracks like 'One', 'Nothing Else Matters' or even 'Call of Ktulu' (if you haven't a thousand times before). Surprisingly, 'Unforgiven III' is the only track that's reminiscent of their glorious past. I'll grant one thing though, 'Death Magnetic' makes us forget 'St. Anger', and that in itself is a great achievement for the band.… Expand
  33. NileshP.
    Sep 18, 2008
    10
    Metallica Rules... !!!
  34. ShadowkingBax
    Sep 18, 2008
    10
    Best album since '91! Well done Metallica!
  35. tennisstallion
    Sep 19, 2008
    9
    Metallica back to what they do best. Critics are unfairly weighing their history against them, because this album is a solid 9 out of 10. Not perfect by any stretch, but a hell of a metal album! Screw the Napster-loving Lars-haters! Metallica is still the best!!!!
  36. DaveL.
    Sep 19, 2008
    7
    I can't see how so many people have rated this a 10, it's not bad, not bad at all considering there last effort, but its not Master of Puppets, Black, live pinge and purge type stuff, Makes me wonder what these people rate there older stuff then.. Its Good but just not that good, but still nice to hear a bit of the old Metallica in there, just not as much as an old Metallica fan I can't see how so many people have rated this a 10, it's not bad, not bad at all considering there last effort, but its not Master of Puppets, Black, live pinge and purge type stuff, Makes me wonder what these people rate there older stuff then.. Its Good but just not that good, but still nice to hear a bit of the old Metallica in there, just not as much as an old Metallica fan would like to hear.. Good effort guys, but some beery magic and a garage is deffently needed... Metal up ya ****.… Expand
  37. HumlanN.
    Sep 21, 2008
    8
    Good ol'e Metallica, after spending years in the mist.
  38. WilliamT
    Sep 20, 2008
    8
    While it's not perfect, Metallica make a strong comeback with this complex multi-layered album reminiscent of ...And Justice for All and the Black Album with it's strong sound and groove. At all rates, it's much better than St. Anger.
  39. BerndK.
    Sep 28, 2008
    9
    A very good album after a very bad st.anger album metallica is back.
  40. TimP.
    Sep 28, 2008
    9
    first off if u want a 80s sound these days from anyone it isnt there so that being said i love this album it is easily as heavy as any they have ever done they have combined speed with hook and agressiveness and oh yeh maturity. rob (trujillo) adds more than u think imagine if they had grabbed him before they did st anger i think they needed his presence and i think that when jason left first off if u want a 80s sound these days from anyone it isnt there so that being said i love this album it is easily as heavy as any they have ever done they have combined speed with hook and agressiveness and oh yeh maturity. rob (trujillo) adds more than u think imagine if they had grabbed him before they did st anger i think they needed his presence and i think that when jason left it proved they werent to big to p*ss eachother off. but on to dm it is a balls to the wall feeling the whole way thru and i like the intro to unforgiven 3 it lets the song take its own shape and doesnt rely on the past 2 to make it a valid song, i have heard the new megadeth as well and i dont like it as much as this because at least metallica isnt desperate enough to put keyboards in every song dave has become too technical for his own good and oh yeh kirk proved to me that he has always had the solo touch.… Expand
  41. MohsenH.
    Sep 29, 2008
    9
    It's Wonderful. METALLICA back to Trash in 80. I love death magnetic. it's really remember DEATH.
  42. JuanE
    Oct 19, 2009
    10
    Possibly the Greatest Triumph in Musical History. While Many Disliked St Anger, St Anger Was A Rebirth of Metallica. With Death Magnetic You see the power they still posses. While Many dislike the Wah Wah solos, the solos themslves were made to fuse the song with variety. Death Magnetic Was a Album that seemed to be influenced by middle Eastern Music. Musically Metallica Is the Best Band Possibly the Greatest Triumph in Musical History. While Many Disliked St Anger, St Anger Was A Rebirth of Metallica. With Death Magnetic You see the power they still posses. While Many dislike the Wah Wah solos, the solos themslves were made to fuse the song with variety. Death Magnetic Was a Album that seemed to be influenced by middle Eastern Music. Musically Metallica Is the Best Band in The World That is Still Living. They Always have Variety, Enough Variety to please Metal Heads All Around and the mainstream audience. Overall Death Magnetic is the Start Of A New Chapter In Metal History, The Return of The True Gods Of Metal!… Expand
  43. KendoJ
    Jun 6, 2009
    8
    I'm liking it more and more with each play-through. While the sound is hardly original - it's traditional Metallica through and through - It's bursting with an energy and vibrancy that defies the age of these rock stars. Some absolutely incredible guitar and drum work within.
  44. AlexH.
    Jul 7, 2009
    9
    This album is a huge combat from St. Anger (not that it was bad). This album brings back more of their thrash feeling rather than heavy. As always, Pitchfork is gonna bash it without listening to it, as with all other rock and metal albums. My favorite track from this album is All Nightmare Long. The Day That Never Comes is a good song, too, but overrated.
  45. LouieF
    Sep 21, 2009
    7
    Reading some of the highest rating reviews and lowest, I can see where certain points from each are valid in my opinion. From the higher: Death Magnetic at times sounds like an evolution from the Black Album, with monster riffs and lyrics that are well thought out. The return of Kirks' solos are welcome in hindsight to St. Anger. From the lower: The vocals are vibrato ridden and a Reading some of the highest rating reviews and lowest, I can see where certain points from each are valid in my opinion. From the higher: Death Magnetic at times sounds like an evolution from the Black Album, with monster riffs and lyrics that are well thought out. The return of Kirks' solos are welcome in hindsight to St. Anger. From the lower: The vocals are vibrato ridden and a flashback to the Load/Reload era, something that I believe Death Magnetic was hoping to differentiate itself from. Many songs sound like a long jam session, for example "The Day That Never Comes". Last but not least the solos are not very Metallica-like in my opinion. They seem to challenge the riffs and might be thought of more as leads, and not enhance the music like the solos from previous albums (ex. Master Of Puppets). All in all a decent album worth a listen that tries to recapture all the heaviness, anger and musicianship of earlier Metallica albums, but falls slightly short of its mark.… Expand
  46. JasonD
    Nov 18, 2008
    9
    The release of Death Magnetic was accompanied by a collective sigh of relief. The first thought that popped into my head upon hearing this album was "So THIS is what listening to a just-released Black Album must have felt like." I saw these guys when they came to Columbus for the DM tour, and the show they put on was nothing short of amazing. James' beard was kick-ass!
  47. DavidJ
    Dec 17, 2008
    10
    This disc starts out strong and well....the first seven songs, are....legendary. I did eventually make it to the end of the disc...and that was all good. This masterpiece is supposedly a moment or dedication to hereos fallen, past and present and it works. I read the lyrics, and although I struggled to understand what they really meant, when I saw them applied to the music, I thought they This disc starts out strong and well....the first seven songs, are....legendary. I did eventually make it to the end of the disc...and that was all good. This masterpiece is supposedly a moment or dedication to hereos fallen, past and present and it works. I read the lyrics, and although I struggled to understand what they really meant, when I saw them applied to the music, I thought they were just awesome, and I at least understood what went into the songwriting, and it doesnt look like it was any simple task. It should border on great songwriting and lyricy. In any case, lets move on. I saw metallica 10 feet from the stage at Master of Puppets when they opened for Ozzy in 1986. I remember putting on that album in my room and then waiting for the show...experience of a lifetime..especially knowing that the reason I got so close to the general adm. stage in '86 was that the vast majority of the crowd was there for Ozzy and I had free reign. In any case, I was two years out of high school at that time. Yes, I saw other great shows during that period as well, like Guns open for the Crue twice for Appetite on the Motley Girls' tour (sorry for those of you that saw Whitesnake earlier instead). "Still of the Night!" Anyway, again, this is a revelation in my opinion. Nothing like what I have heard over the many years since I can remember. A real piece of work. Enjoy and definately buy the disc and go see them if you can afford the ridiculous price for tickets. By the way, I have listened to the tracks two or three times, I just got it, so I am still wet behind the ears with the sound, kind of the best time to be enjoying new work, you have had it, but havent experienced it to its fullest, so you keep coming back for more and more....kind of like a hot chick that you recently met, but you are both at this point.....really into it. My point is...get it, and enjoy!… Expand
  48. RoyJ.
    Oct 22, 2008
    9
    Amazing album! "All Nightmare Long" should be a classic. Seriously, the whole album is completely solid. I can't stop listening to it. Metallica rules! And, as for Pitchfork, what a bunch of sorry-ass "indie" posers they are! The have the most ass-backwards taste in music. They love trendy bands that hardly anyone will remember in 5 years from now, let alone 20 years like Metallica. Amazing album! "All Nightmare Long" should be a classic. Seriously, the whole album is completely solid. I can't stop listening to it. Metallica rules! And, as for Pitchfork, what a bunch of sorry-ass "indie" posers they are! The have the most ass-backwards taste in music. They love trendy bands that hardly anyone will remember in 5 years from now, let alone 20 years like Metallica. Simply clueless. Nice to have the Bay Area thrashers back strong! Rick Rubin is a genius!… Expand
  49. Chcukc
    Dec 2, 2008
    10
    Very nice. No one out there is push out this type of quallity any more.
  50. Helfonh
    Dec 4, 2008
    10
    I love this album it feels like it came between Justice and the Black album. It's Metallica as they should be but matured. James has grown vocally with his melodies but the music is more chugging guitar metal riffs rather than pop metally hooks that started with the black album and got worse from there. Still someone has to hold Lars down in the studio while his drums are turned down I love this album it feels like it came between Justice and the Black album. It's Metallica as they should be but matured. James has grown vocally with his melodies but the music is more chugging guitar metal riffs rather than pop metally hooks that started with the black album and got worse from there. Still someone has to hold Lars down in the studio while his drums are turned down in the mix. His drumming is perfect though. Hurray for dual guitar harmony solos and hurray for wah filled melodic Kirk solos. Viva Metallica for they are back.… Expand
  51. steves
    Dec 9, 2008
    10
    I too feel the same as most reviewers here - this album rocks! A return to a form not seen in a very long time. I even think this album is better than the "Black Album", as that album is way more commercial than this.
  52. Matt
    Sep 11, 2008
    9
    After my very first listen, I decided that this CD was in the upper echelon of Metallica's albums, right up there with RTL, Master of Puppets, and AJFA. A few songs here stand out as some of the best metallica songs ever, bar none.
  53. ChadB.
    Sep 12, 2008
    10
    The BEST album to hit the shelves in probably 15 years.
  54. AlexandreM.
    Sep 12, 2008
    10
    F***!!! really nice! beast album since and justice!
  55. ChadG.
    Sep 12, 2008
    10
    Quite simply the finest all-round effort of their career. Ingredients from every previous album make Death Magnetic the something for everyone cd by this band.
  56. STroy
    Sep 12, 2008
    9
    If another band had made this album, everyone would say its amazing. Since we expect so much out of Metallica, whatever they do, we don't consider perfect!
  57. EdK.
    Sep 12, 2008
    10
    What a driving force of an album. Give it a few listens, it grows on you.
  58. JayS.
    Sep 12, 2008
    9
    As Metallica go down the "hard rock" path they laid out in "Load" days, I think they do so with speed and an edge. While the detrators will all say it's not "Kill 'em All," "Puppets," or "Lightning," they album still rocks hard and is a must for any 'tallica fan.
  59. AndyO.
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    Metallica's best album since 'Justice'. A long overdue and much welcomed return to form.
  60. JP
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    I love this album, its so bad ass. its fun as hell to play on gh3 too. that one score by pitchfork is fucking it all up. we should all send the author a bunch of hate mail.
  61. CG.
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    I've been a Metallica for around 10 years now, and in terms of the albums of theirs i would recommend to others, it would have been just the first 5 albums and nothing afterwards... It makes me so happy to say that this is the 6th addition to that list! In terms of the album, I was a bit weary at first - probably to do with what I've grown to expect - however, I am not let down I've been a Metallica for around 10 years now, and in terms of the albums of theirs i would recommend to others, it would have been just the first 5 albums and nothing afterwards... It makes me so happy to say that this is the 6th addition to that list! In terms of the album, I was a bit weary at first - probably to do with what I've grown to expect - however, I am not let down at all! I still wouldn't class this as being anywhere near as epic as any of the first five, but it is pretty darn close when you realize the main difference isn't so much with the songwriting, but moreso to do with James' matured voice and changes in tone for all the instruments! All this being said, I love this album... and it's great to know the guys can still pull it off! Its been over 15 years, but Metallica are back in their truest form.… Expand
  62. JamesF.
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    Their best album in 20 years i have no regrets buying it
  63. GaryK.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Best comeback since Bruce Dickinson's return to Iron Maiden.
  64. FosterDaddy
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    The boys are BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I've been waiting for about 17 years for this. Thanks guys i knew u had it in you
  65. AllenL.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    I knew they could put out a kick ass rock n roll album,this shit is screaming to be played live, way ta go metallica!!this f*ckin album rocks!
  66. BunnyAnonymous
    Sep 14, 2008
    10
    This is one of the best cd I've ever heard. All Nightmare Long is magical.
  67. PauloG.
    Sep 14, 2008
    9
    Great album, the best one since black album and AJFA, and actually I consider this album gives the lost continuity of the old albums (82 -91). I hope they get on track not only in this album, but to see a re - beginning of this band after this great jewel they gave to all our old fans.
  68. Dan
    Sep 15, 2008
    9
    The fact that Pitchfork gave it a 4.9 out of 10 is all you need to know. As an old school fan still smarting from Load (and Black to a lesser extent), I didn't want to like this album. But I have to say, it's pretty fucking awesome!! METAL UP YOUR ASS!!!
  69. UrielM.
    Sep 15, 2008
    9
    Amazing! the first time a heard it was like having 15 years again, the sound is incredible, 2008 trash metal!! Only one thing, maybe Unforgiven 3, not being a bad song at all, is out of place in this disc!
  70. LeksiB.
    Sep 16, 2008
    10
    Awesome Record! Best piece of work in 17 years. Welcome back thrash metal!
  71. RayB.
    Sep 16, 2008
    10
    This album is the best release since justice for all days. I love it, I was never a huge fan of the Black Album era but could appreciate it. Suicide redemption is also a great instrumental I really dig the riff. It's heavy and has a great groove to it. Can't wait to see them live in Chicago this year(already got the ticket).
  72. KennyG(shut-up!)
    Sep 17, 2008
    9
    Awesome CD. I won't be ashamed to put this in with friends in the car. And from what I've read from the critics, they wholeheartedly agree, at least the good ones do! It's not perfect, but it's pretty damn good. First Green Day makes a big comeback (a commercial success comeback), and now Metallica make a big comeback that may still be a commercial success, but Death Awesome CD. I won't be ashamed to put this in with friends in the car. And from what I've read from the critics, they wholeheartedly agree, at least the good ones do! It's not perfect, but it's pretty damn good. First Green Day makes a big comeback (a commercial success comeback), and now Metallica make a big comeback that may still be a commercial success, but Death Magnetic is as much a thrash record as their early works and Rick Rubin's other thrash workers Slayer. I'm impressed.… Expand
  73. MarcoMendoza
    Sep 18, 2008
    9
    Great album, 'Tallica is back. Good sound, lyrics, guitars, bass, drums. I don't give a 10 because some "Load" is in there. Tanks
  74. DanM.
    Sep 19, 2008
    7
    Their stongest album in years! But, if only they cared about quality control and caught the obvious song issues prior to mastering the CD they would do better. How many albums are they going to sell once people find out they are buying a very poor sound quality CD in 2008!
  75. AshleyM.
    Sep 22, 2008
    8
    Death Magnetic, Metallica's long heralded ninth studio album produce by Rick Rubin opens with the sound of a heartbeat that leads into a clean guitar line much like "Sanitarium" from Master Of Puppets and quickly evolves into a fast and roaring speed metal number. The real Metallica has returned to their bodies after presumably fighting their way out of the fires of hell for the past Death Magnetic, Metallica's long heralded ninth studio album produce by Rick Rubin opens with the sound of a heartbeat that leads into a clean guitar line much like "Sanitarium" from Master Of Puppets and quickly evolves into a fast and roaring speed metal number. The real Metallica has returned to their bodies after presumably fighting their way out of the fires of hell for the past fifteen years. This song, aptly named "That Was Your Life" sets the standard for the rest of the album to come. Was it a wise decision for Metallica to dump longtime producer Bob Rock? I think it was as Rick Rubin has provided them with a fresh outlook on why they were so great to begin with. Rubin knows his metal. The guy has produced some of the most punishingly brutal metal albums ever to grace the turntables of bikers and and burnouts everywhere by the likes of Slayer and Danzig. There is no argument that he is an accomplished producer and an aficionado of great hard rock and metal. I can only assume that he came into the studio, put Master Of Puppets on the stereo and made Metallica listen. "This is it guys. That was your life" he may have said. The second track on Death Magnetic "The End Of The Line" sounds a bit like the hammy stoner rock of St. Anger but reveals its true nature about halfway through as a track that could have easily fit amongst the more speedy numbers on the Black album or ...And Justice For All. This track flows seamlessly into the "The Day That Never Comes" which isn't much of a step forward (or backward in this case). I'd put this one beside a song like "Hero Of The Day" or any number of more schmaltzy Metallica songs, although the last two minutes of the song are a power metal freakout akin to bands like Dragonforce. "All Nightmare Long" scrapes and batters its way into a catchy chorus after what seems like a thematic sequel to Enter Sandman from the Black album. I would expect this track to be delivered as a single at some point down the road depending on Metallica's inclination to milk this album for as long as they can as they've done with Load and the Black album before it. This leads to the next track, "Cyanide" which finds Hetfield and Co. exploring well, death which seems to be the theme of this album. This is probably the least cohesive song on the whole as it sounds more like a holdover from Load. "My Apocalypse" is the standout track on this album and really epitomizes what Metallica (along with Rick rubin) are trying to accomplish. Yes, it sounds like a song from Master Of Puppets but that doesn't mean that it is devoid of anything new. With this track its sounds like Metallica has effortlessly slid into old climes while still retaining some of the maturity of Load or (gasp) ReLoad. Regardless of the punishing distortion and blast beat drums, this is a pop song worthy of modern rock radio. The same could be said for the next track "Broken Beaten And Scarred". Death Magnetic even has an instrumental track (Suicide And Redemption) that is reminiscent of Call Of Ktulu or Orion. Rubin pulled out all the stops trying to sequence this as a classic Metallica album and I think many fans will thank him for it. The lyrics are what you'd expect from an old metalhead in his forties. Full of cliches and littered with High School philosophical diatribes, but who ever listened to Metallica for the lyrics? This is a Metallica album in the vein of their pre-Load efforts and worthy to be set alongside Master Of Puppets and ...And Justice For All as a brutal and unrelenting metal masterpiece. If you are someone who's grown up with post-Black album Metallica, this will all be new to you. This album mines familiar territory but all for the better. This is new old Metallica and it seems fresh regardless of a return to the old days of denim and iron-on patches. "The Unforgiven III", while another obligatory sequel to The Unforgiven from the Black album, is actually quite good and really doesn't sound anything like the previous chapters. I can see this one being a single at some point as well. It also features some of the most eloquent lyrics on the album. James Hetfield pleads for forgiveness almost as if he were asking us, the listeners who've put up with so many missteps to give them this one more chance. Can they keep this up on future releases or will the cycle of mediocrity begin once again with ReDeath Magnetic?… Expand
  76. DavidM.
    Sep 23, 2008
    8
    Best album from Metallica since the Black Album, however not near Masters of Puppets or even Ride the Lightning.
  77. BläP.
    Sep 25, 2008
    10
    This album is really good! Definately the best since the Black Album! Heavy riffs and lightningspeed solos mixed with the nice shimmery clean sound of James' guitar and his great singing. What more could you ask for!
  78. CoryM.
    Sep 26, 2008
    8
    I enjoyed this album very much. A welcome change back to the old thrash days, with very heavy riffs and great solos. This is what should have been after the Black Album, in my opinion.
  79. LuisA.
    Jan 15, 2009
    8
    Fair 8.3 (This Page doesn't accept decimals though). Though the first single of Death Magnetic, "The Day That Never Comes" is really overrated (and in my opinion the less god on the album), the rest of the album is great. Now we can't complain of lacking solos, because Kirk is back and reloaded. Lars drums are more tolerable (though still too loud for me), ROb's bass is Fair 8.3 (This Page doesn't accept decimals though). Though the first single of Death Magnetic, "The Day That Never Comes" is really overrated (and in my opinion the less god on the album), the rest of the album is great. Now we can't complain of lacking solos, because Kirk is back and reloaded. Lars drums are more tolerable (though still too loud for me), ROb's bass is really Rob's bass, and James voice, although it isn't the one we heard back on 'Justice', makes good use of his dual using (Raw & Melodical). Welcome Back (sort of) Metallica. Favorite Song: All Nightmare Long. Less Favorite Song: The Day that Never Comes.… Expand
  80. FinchFinch
    Jul 19, 2009
    8
    The sound quality was alright. The guitars have that classic Metallica "buzzsaw" sound. The drum are are too loud and Robert's bass is buried in the mix. Other than that the songs echo their earlier days. The heart and soul isn't all there, but all the tunes are tasteful and aggressive. The songs are a bit long... Every song on Death Magnetic could have benefited from being The sound quality was alright. The guitars have that classic Metallica "buzzsaw" sound. The drum are are too loud and Robert's bass is buried in the mix. Other than that the songs echo their earlier days. The heart and soul isn't all there, but all the tunes are tasteful and aggressive. The songs are a bit long... Every song on Death Magnetic could have benefited from being shortened. The music is intense and demands your attention... But even Metallica isn't awesome enough to keep my attention for over 70 minutes. Upon listening I have to break it up in blocks. However, it does lends itself well upon multiple listens.… Expand
  81. JamesW.
    Nov 15, 2008
    10
    This album is a constant play in my car. From the opening track to the final one, this is a return to the Metallica we grew to love in the 80's with a modern spin on it. This is the album that St. Anger should have been. Best album of 2008!
  82. RustyS.
    Nov 21, 2008
    9
    I'm not even a metal fan but this album was great. It's like St. Anger never even happened so if you aren't buying this just because of St. Anger, you should probably change your mind. This album obviously had a lot of time and thinking into it because some of the guitar material is just amazing.
  83. VenomG.
    Nov 23, 2008
    10
    After reviewing all Metallica history this album was a recall from what Metallica really is.
  84. valkury
    Sep 22, 2010
    8
    AHHHHHHH. THE SOLOS, THEIR BACK. O now i can go back to loving this band again. Metallica is back and heavier than before. Going back to how they used to play in the mid 80s when they started, metallica's new album is jam packed with heavy riffs, awsome lyrics, and solos. SWEAT SWEAT AWSOME SOLOS.
  85. seifer
    Jul 2, 2012
    8
    Not their best, but still fantastic! As a musician, some of Metallica's music is a pleasure to play. e.g. That was just your life + The Unforgiven III.
  86. phavyarden
    Apr 12, 2011
    10
    Wonderful album.! Maybe one of the best metal albums of the decade. I never thought that Metallica will comeback this good! I hope they come to my country to listen this new master piece alive
  87. paco5005
    Sep 26, 2011
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. God, there's so much to write about this album. To me, it's the album that got me into metal. And made Metallica my 3rd favorite band. I think I'll go track by track, the ones that i like the most, and the ones that made my vote a 9 instead of a 10:
    1) That Was Just Your Life: Awesome song, pure fast, angry, awesome trash metal. A perfect start for a great album.
    2) The End Of The Line: Somehow, this track just doesn't fully convince me. I think it is because it could have been more.
    3) Broken, Beat & Scarred: A jewel in the album. This song doesn't get neither boring nor old. It's a modern version of Seek and Destroy: a catchy intro, several riffs that follow each other until it settles in one for the verse, an awesome yet simple chorus, a rampaging break that build into an amazing solo, another awesome chorus, and a great end riff. Simply mind-blowing.
    4) The Day That Never Comes: this is a modern mix between Sanitarium and One for me. With a suitable intro, a calm and emotional verse that builds up onto the desperation of the chorus. And then, the break. And the rage starts up with the whole riffing that begins at 5:01 and ends the song. It communicates everything it should make you feel with very simple lyrics and great riffs that speak for themselves.
    7) The Unforgiven III: really disappointing. I was hoping for an epic sequel to the lame second part of this "story" if you will. Not bad, but not good either.
    8) The Judas Kiss: Awesome, this song would have as equally rocking without the lyrics. A metal masterpiece.
    9) Suicide & Redemption: WOW, just, WOW. Nothing to say here, every riff repetition is in the exact place and it is played the exact number of times. It cannot get better. The top of the album.
    10) My Apocalypse: Pure, ravaging trash metal.

    Well, that was my opinion. I know people will hate me for not saying anything about All Nightmare Long, but i didn't like nor care about that song much. Don't misunderstand me, i like it, but any other song that isn't from Load, Reload nor St. Anger (with the exception of St. Anger and Frantic) could have filled it's spot.    … Expand
  88. coldron1
    Nov 2, 2011
    10
    I would consider this the best album i have ever heard and what Metallica have made. they have definitely redeemed themselves on this one. One of the first albums I've heard where i have enjoyed listening to every single song on the album and repeatedly listened to again and again. it's 2011 i bought it in 2008 i still listen now 10/10
  89. WeaselSlayer
    Nov 2, 2011
    7
    The album is impressive, I must say. I'm a huge Metallica fan and my "fandom" had been fading, but for awhile they brought me back with Death Magnetic. However, I must say the songs lost their luster after a good amount of listens and it turned into an album that I can really only listen to while driving or occupying myself with other things. It's just not an album I can sit and listen to,The album is impressive, I must say. I'm a huge Metallica fan and my "fandom" had been fading, but for awhile they brought me back with Death Magnetic. However, I must say the songs lost their luster after a good amount of listens and it turned into an album that I can really only listen to while driving or occupying myself with other things. It's just not an album I can sit and listen to, much like Kill 'Em All. It's a good, fun album, though, and it has me very interested to see what Metallica comes up with next.… Expand
  90. Mithaq_Jalali
    Nov 9, 2011
    10
    one of the best albums for metallica, the unforgiven III gave the album some nice memories and its nice, 10 great heavy songs, cyanide came out really heavy and great, Thank you Metallica.
  91. helloworld1066
    Nov 23, 2011
    9
    To anyone who claims this album is bad then quite simply you are wrong, though i would say more insane. This is metallica doing what they do best. Blasting out fantastic metal tunes. That of course is given the exception of the unforgiven 3, which is garbage, the first two were a lot better.
  92. ryallen
    Dec 26, 2011
    8
    Every song has enough redeeming qualities for you to want to listen to it again, and that's at the very least. Songs like ''All Nightmare Long" and "The Judas Kiss" are reminiscent of older classics, and the whole album is a fortunate departure from anything on "St. Anger". Old and new fans alike will love this album undoubtedly, apart from the occasional but slightly damaging distortionEvery song has enough redeeming qualities for you to want to listen to it again, and that's at the very least. Songs like ''All Nightmare Long" and "The Judas Kiss" are reminiscent of older classics, and the whole album is a fortunate departure from anything on "St. Anger". Old and new fans alike will love this album undoubtedly, apart from the occasional but slightly damaging distortion found during louder sections. The album itself is very loud, and that's the reason why some sections are distorted - the production was meant to be as loud as as compressed as possible. Great album, gonna be tough to follow up, which apparently Metallica is doing in 2012. The "Beyond Magnetic" EP is also fantastic, and its a real shame that those songs couldn't be on the original album.… Expand
  93. metall94
    Jan 20, 2012
    8
    Old Metallica, Old Metallica, Old Metallica, Old Metallica. I really wish Metallica would have made and continued to make Kill Em All and/or Ride the Lightning again and again and again, forever and ever. I wish music and musicians would never change so I can imagine its 1984 for the rest of my life. So my mind never changes, my mind never opens, I never experience anything new. If youOld Metallica, Old Metallica, Old Metallica, Old Metallica. I really wish Metallica would have made and continued to make Kill Em All and/or Ride the Lightning again and again and again, forever and ever. I wish music and musicians would never change so I can imagine its 1984 for the rest of my life. So my mind never changes, my mind never opens, I never experience anything new. If you thought you would hear Kill Em All when you played Death Magnetic, St. Anger, ReLoad, Load, or the Black Album, boy were you surprised. I have never had that experience. Here's my secret, I READ THE LABEL. I expect to hear Ride the Lightning when I play ride the Lightning not when I play Death Magnetic. Death Magnetic sounds like Death Magnetic. Crazy concept, I know. They've already made Master of Puppets. Play it when you want to hear it. They are not going to make it again. Get over it.… Expand
  94. Santi_RHCP
    Mar 16, 2012
    9
    Metallica are finally back with the style we all loved since the beginning. Im really looking forward to see what they can do in their next disc (im not considering Lulu, obviously)
  95. Muhittin
    Aug 20, 2012
    8
    It is not perfect. But it is a turn towards the right direction. Imagine a car going off road since 1991 and with each year it comes closer to the cliff. This album saves the car and puts it in the right road. It is not the best car but it is still working at least.
  96. ricco94
    Mar 8, 2013
    8
    Finally they're back! For real. Nothing to do with St. Anger. This is their best in the last 15 years. Sometimes it's too violent and a bit boring, but the most of the songs are really good. Welcome back!
  97. SlasherV
    Oct 27, 2012
    8
    This is a huge comeback from Metallica after St.Anger. It's their best album in years and Die Hard Metallica Fans should be happy with this album and so should casual fans. As a Metallica Fan i am Satisfied with what came out and am hoping they keep with this style with their next release
  98. forestville
    Mar 31, 2013
    9
    Finally, after 12 years of failure, Metallica returns with more power and proves once again that his music is legendary. From the ugly work "Load" hopes were lost for this epic metal band, but this album closed many mouths to Metallica gave up for lost. Indeed, were close to the edge, but this return is a demonstration that he had, retained, and that only the larger ones are able to beFinally, after 12 years of failure, Metallica returns with more power and proves once again that his music is legendary. From the ugly work "Load" hopes were lost for this epic metal band, but this album closed many mouths to Metallica gave up for lost. Indeed, were close to the edge, but this return is a demonstration that he had, retained, and that only the larger ones are able to be reborn as a phoenix to sign one of the best albums of 2008 and of the decade 10 songs in total, long, thick at times, as in And Justice for All" but fast as in the first three discs, no ballads hesitant and without experiments that are not theirs. My favorite song is "All Nightmare Long" (7:57), intense from start to finish and with a chorus of flag to let us throat. "The Day That Never Comes" and have heard, as the you listening again and again shows you that "One" does not take too much advantage. Maybe this reliving their sound, but this work is not worth the ten, because as a man named Dani Alvarez, deserve a minimum punishment for making us wait so long to taste happiness again, plus there are many bands that have earned these years be appreciated as this band. Not exceeding, but there is always an opportunity for everyone. In conclusion this work relives this band after 12 years of failure, it is strongly recommended disc for fans and for the first time in many years, music lovers. Obviously, one of the best albums of the decade 2000. NOTICE: If you happen to see my review of the album "Shogun" by Trivium, I said that work was becoming comparable with Metallica but because sound the same. People often confused with that, but said that because the work of Trivium was becoming as big as Metallica work, ie they were having approaching greatness with Metallica. Many people used to say that Trivium, was the new Metallica. But "Shogun" shows that Trivium Metallica is totally independent and is one of the few bands in my opinion, they have come to be comparable with legendary bands such as Metallica. Even Trivium Metallica fails, but Shogun proved that at any time, we will give a surprise to overtake Metallica. I hope that day arrives, but in the meantime, enjoy "Death Magnetic" and "Shogun", especially Shogun, because honestly, exceeds that of Metallica, but Metallica still enjoyed, is very good… Expand
  99. Aquazi
    Oct 9, 2013
    9
    I consider Death Magnetic to be truly one of the best Metallica's album overall and shows that Metallica are still a band able to rock very hard. Too bad they do not have the same production quality in the last 10 years as Lulu or St. Anger.
  100. HiddenGhul
    Apr 25, 2013
    8
    Sadly I never thought that a Metallica would make another metal album like their earlier works but I'm glad to say the St Anger days are hopefully behind us, this album is great and very metal!
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Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Most Discussed Album of 2008
15
#15 Most Shared Album of 2008

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 27 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 27
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 27
  3. Negative: 0 out of 27
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    83
    Sometimes the album's mini-epics come off as we've still got it! stunts. But when it's working, the effect is like ceding your senses to a particularly well-engineered roller coaster in the dark.
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  2. Pitchfork
    49
    The best ones spit in the face of death; this album instead finds aging men trying to reclaim their youth.
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  3. Rolling Stone
    80
    The musicianship feels thrillingly live throughout, and nimble new bassist Robert Trujillo helps, even though he's mostly heard as a distant, ominous rumble.
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