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. 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
  2. BerndK.
    Sep 28, 2008
    9
    A very good album after a very bad st.anger album metallica is back.
  3. JamesD.
    Sep 27, 2008
    10
    Absolutely amazing, totally makes up for St. Anger. "All Nightmare Long" is the best song, but I love it all. Tallica is back baby.
  4. 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.
  5. JasonP.
    Sep 26, 2008
    9
    Iv'e been waiting 17 years its about time metallica comes back strong.
  6. MickT.
    Sep 25, 2008
    6
    It's alright. Better than Load and so forth. Another band destroyed by overexposure. Metallica eponymous was their swan song. What happened to the winding mystery. To much straight ahead, not enough story. I by chance listened to #9, the suicide instrumental and I hoped the rest would be better. It wasn't. Dumbed down Metallica.
  7. 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!
  8. DavidM.
    Sep 23, 2008
    8
    Best album from Metallica since the Black Album, however not near Masters of Puppets or even Ride the Lightning.
  9. 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
  10. GuyH
    Sep 22, 2008
    8
    You know what - I was going to give this a 7/10 but because this is Metallica I'll notch up an extra point on my rating. The reason? This album made me grin with the knowledge that I would have LOVED it when I was 15. 'Death Magnetic' has many, many faults - the vocals and drums are way too samey, so many of the riffs are reminiscent of past material, the 2nd half of the You know what - I was going to give this a 7/10 but because this is Metallica I'll notch up an extra point on my rating. The reason? This album made me grin with the knowledge that I would have LOVED it when I was 15. 'Death Magnetic' has many, many faults - the vocals and drums are way too samey, so many of the riffs are reminiscent of past material, the 2nd half of the album is undeniably weaker than the 1st, there are no truly amazing melodic passages a la 'Master of Puppets', some parts of songs seem superfluous, some of the lyrics are cringe-inducing... but - this is METALLICA and large chunks of this album rock hard so in my best Hetfield roar it is an eiiiiggghhtttt-tahhh!!… Expand
  11. BozhidarR.
    Sep 22, 2008
    10
    Best album of the year and definitely their best since and justice for all... Greta riffs, great dynamic, it just grabs you and make you to play over and over again...that`s just All Nightmare Long:)
  12. HumlanN.
    Sep 21, 2008
    8
    Good ol'e Metallica, after spending years in the mist.
  13. 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.
  14. JamesM.
    Sep 20, 2008
    10
    I am a die-hard fan of tallica ,even st.anger couldn't cut my strings from boyz,I listened to this album and i'm gonna say that this is HEAVY Baby. it is a real Masterpiece!
  15. PatrickS.
    Sep 20, 2008
    10
    Death Magnetic rocks SO hard! Anyone who is bashing it is closed minded and to old to know what good music is anymore.
  16. RudyS.
    Sep 20, 2008
    9
    I bought St Anger the day it was released here in South Africa, and gave it away 30 minutes after listening it, that was crud. I'm a fan of Load and Reload, as they have their own hidden gems. Death Magnetic is as everyone says not up there with MoP or Justice...but I think this is the first album Metallica can be proud of in a very long while! Really really really good!
  17. RodS.
    Sep 20, 2008
    10
    Eventhough critics are unfairly comparing it to their earlier works, Death Magnetic stands on its own as a great album... although the post Black albums were'nt up to expectations, you still have to give the band credit for trying to evolve musically (I'd like to think Death Magnetic is just the first of many albums showcasing that evolution)... Well done!
  18. 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!
  19. 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!!!!
  20. jimmyw.
    Sep 19, 2008
    4
    what a load of dung. bang bang bang scream... wow, we know ye can play heavy stuff but what about some music. why all the noise. his voice just becomes anoying, when it used to sound powerfull. i think they are listening to there fans too much instead of doing there own thing,they should go with there age and play some slow songs.until it sleeps,nothing else...why didnt they have the real what a load of dung. bang bang bang scream... wow, we know ye can play heavy stuff but what about some music. why all the noise. his voice just becomes anoying, when it used to sound powerfull. i think they are listening to there fans too much instead of doing there own thing,they should go with there age and play some slow songs.until it sleeps,nothing else...why didnt they have the real intro for unforgiven3.… Expand
  21. 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
  22. AndreaR
    Sep 19, 2008
    8
    Death Magnetic is the best thing to come out from these guys since ...AJFA, and it keeps getting more infectious on each listen. Although there are a few remnants of the Black Album - St Anger era, it's a damn good mix of thrash and hard rock, sprinkled with a nice bit of speed. Awesome stuff. Thanks 'tallica!
  23. BaronS.
    Sep 18, 2008
    8
    Call it Kirk's redemption. He sounds like a long caged animal set free! If you happen to be a "real" Metallica fan who finds him or herself not liking this record....than I say you've given up a long time ago. Past disappointments of the Loads and St. Anger have made you unable to forgive and love Metallica again because this record stands strong with their 80's material.
  24. ShadowkingBax
    Sep 18, 2008
    10
    Best album since '91! Well done Metallica!
  25. mokab.
    Sep 18, 2008
    2
    Painfully dull and poorly produced, A great improvement on St. Anger, true. But being honest, a recording of them taking a dump would be mildly more interesting than the past one.
  26. 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
  27. TOmD.
    Sep 18, 2008
    1
    Please give up the Name Metallica, belongs to young more aggressive Bands.
  28. BigD
    Sep 18, 2008
    4
    I don't have much to say just that since cliff died metallica have never been the same, never will be and never can be. He made the band, made so many of the riffs and since dieing they've lost it. O well least the first 4 albums are good. R.I.P Cliff.
  29. NileshP.
    Sep 18, 2008
    10
    Metallica Rules... !!!
  30. 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
  31. FastE.
    Sep 17, 2008
    1
    I live and breath metallica pre-load and I am disgusted that all the pre-release hype got me excited. When my friends slip up and say that St Anger has it's moment I slap them. If anyone close to me utters anything positive about this album I will take aim. Testament, Maiden, Slayer etc are great examples of oldies still killing it. metallica have spent so much time deconstructing I live and breath metallica pre-load and I am disgusted that all the pre-release hype got me excited. When my friends slip up and say that St Anger has it's moment I slap them. If anyone close to me utters anything positive about this album I will take aim. Testament, Maiden, Slayer etc are great examples of oldies still killing it. metallica have spent so much time deconstructing their music that when they have put it back together the have left out all the good shit.… Expand
  32. BigS.
    Sep 17, 2008
    10
    Album of the year. On par with Justice, Puppets, Lightning. Just absolutely phenomenal. One of the rare occasions when a record exceeds ridiculously high expectations.
  33. MadM.
    Sep 17, 2008
    9
    I feel like i'm living in 1988-1991 again!! A welcome return. To fall in love with their new album most people will have to listen to it twice. For me, the first song That Was Just Your Life blew me away, it was as if they forgot to put it on ..And Justice For All. I listen to it every day and i'm still not sick of it. St Anger Who?
  34. 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
  35. 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
  36. YitbosG
    Sep 17, 2008
    4
    I just feel that after the past album debacles that Metallica has tried to recreate Master of Puppets. The problem is the songs, lyrics and riffs are just not as good. Where is the political angst and anger at society? I see a band more worried about their inner feelings of growing old and feeling irrelevant in the music world. This has been a fatal flaw for many bands and usually I just feel that after the past album debacles that Metallica has tried to recreate Master of Puppets. The problem is the songs, lyrics and riffs are just not as good. Where is the political angst and anger at society? I see a band more worried about their inner feelings of growing old and feeling irrelevant in the music world. This has been a fatal flaw for many bands and usually provides the proverbial nail in the coffin for bands, ironic given the album cover. I… Expand
  37. DustinM.
    Sep 17, 2008
    9
    It's fast, it's complex, it's beautiful,, it's Metallica!
  38. BruceT.
    Sep 17, 2008
    10
    This is easily the best album since "Metallica" in '91 - this coming from a fan since Lightning came out in '84. I might go so far as to call it the album that should have followed Justice - in other words, forget all the Bob Rock years, in spite of some really deadly tunes in the last 17 years. As a semi-pro drummer, I can attest that this is one of Lars' finest records This is easily the best album since "Metallica" in '91 - this coming from a fan since Lightning came out in '84. I might go so far as to call it the album that should have followed Justice - in other words, forget all the Bob Rock years, in spite of some really deadly tunes in the last 17 years. As a semi-pro drummer, I can attest that this is one of Lars' finest records since Justice - I got blisters 3 songs in playing along with it. James' riffs are back with a vengeance, and FINALLY they let Kirk cut loose!!! Awesome album. A must-buy for metal fans.… Expand
  39. BhaskarR.
    Sep 17, 2008
    10
    Amazing album. Just what I expected out of Metallica. I actually didn't hate St Anger as much as most people do. They just went too far from their roots trying to be different and sounded very weird. I've got no complaints with this one. Double thumbs up and I hope they can dish out a couple more albums in the next few years.
  40. Rob
    Sep 16, 2008
    10
    St. what? Best album in a good while that I have had the pleasure of listening to. 10 hours and counting! Glad to have 'Tallica back in the swing of things!
  41. 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).
  42. 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.
  43. SkylerR.
    Sep 16, 2008
    6
    It was definitely better than St.Anger it could have been a hell of a lot better. I don't think they are using Lars to his full potential. All in all its a decent album not great but it didn't suck
  44. SebastienF.
    Sep 16, 2008
    9
    Best album since the Black Album. Metallica's back baby !
  45. LeksiB.
    Sep 16, 2008
    10
    Awesome Record! Best piece of work in 17 years. Welcome back thrash metal!
  46. HamesJ.
    Sep 16, 2008
    8
    Kirk, James and Lars were recently taken off life support and to everyone's surprise they regained consciousness, suffering only minor brain damage (debatable in Lars' case). They went into the studio and recorded a "Metallica" album! "Death Magnetic" deserves the stamp of the original Metallica band logo but I would argue that they should have named it "Awakenings" in reference Kirk, James and Lars were recently taken off life support and to everyone's surprise they regained consciousness, suffering only minor brain damage (debatable in Lars' case). They went into the studio and recorded a "Metallica" album! "Death Magnetic" deserves the stamp of the original Metallica band logo but I would argue that they should have named it "Awakenings" in reference to the DeNiro film because DAMN... where the hell have these guys been? I first heard Metallica around '84 or '85 when a friend popped "Ride the Lightning" into his cassette deck and let "Fight Fire with Fire" rip. Since that moment I was a fan and no amount of change in my musical tastes throughout middle and high school changed that until the black album was released. I threw in the proverbial towel and retired any Metallica T's in the closet and fed off the carcass of their 80's output, another one bites the dust. Now in my mid-thirties, I'm enjoying the popular resurgence of metal, bands like High on Fire and Mastodon (among many others) carry the torch of "real" metal to the masses and finally it seems an old friend wants to join the party. Welcome back, leave your Armani shopping bag outside and have a beer.… Expand
  47. BrianW.
    Sep 15, 2008
    10
    This album is superb, its a return to thrash metal yet it is all new sound I love it 1 thru 10, A little tip for listening pleasure: turn it up to 11.
  48. 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!
  49. 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!!!
  50. 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
  51. 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.
  52. JohnH.
    Sep 15, 2008
    8
    Put Justice and Black albums in a blender, and you get Death Magnetic. It's actually really good. Best new Metallica I've heard in a long time. P.S. It's NOTHING like that St.Anger crap.
  53. 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
  54. SimonN.
    Sep 15, 2008
    9
    Best album by any artist since The Black Album in 91, without a doubt.
  55. 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.
  56. 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.
  57. JohnD.
    Sep 14, 2008
    9
    Great Album - love the opener and Cynide, maybe not up the with ...and Justice but I've had 20 years for that to grow on me - I've heard this album once and I felt like I was 20 years old again - this is Metaliica back at their best - Loved it!
  58. 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.
  59. 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
  60. EvanK.
    Sep 14, 2008
    0
    I just don't get Metallica. I gave this album a listen, and it was just terrible. Then I listened again -- worse yet. I need to scrub my ear lobes after that trash.
  61. BunnyAnonymous
    Sep 14, 2008
    10
    This is one of the best cd I've ever heard. All Nightmare Long is magical.
  62. 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.
  63. 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!
  64. 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
  65. MadhuD.
    Sep 14, 2008
    10
    Metallica baby, who the hell said they are not relevant anymore.
  66. FrankR.
    Sep 14, 2008
    10
    This is the best album of 2008, and the best album Metallica have produced since "The Black Album".
  67. DaveT
    Sep 14, 2008
    10
    May very well be on par with Puppets and ...AJFA when the dust settles. I am still surprised at the sense of urgency they show here, as if they knew this would be a make-or-break point in their career. Also, Hammett is out of his f**king mind here.
  68. RishiG.
    Sep 14, 2008
    8
    It is Metallica tapping into their hey day for inspiration but it is very good and worth listening to.
  69. 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!
  70. RogerStreet
    Sep 13, 2008
    1
    I can't believe they are trying to be 16 year olds. Just because everyone likes Metallica does not mean you have to agree. Come on, They are suppose to be in recovery and Aerosmith were advanced. Go talk to your sponsor. Violence and Death in this time is bullshit. Reject it.
  71. AshP.
    Sep 13, 2008
    5
    Sounds like a remake of load till you get to all nightmare long,then you feel like your back to the master of puppets days but only for a brief second,get out of the studio go back to the garage drink some piss and go back to where it all started,and we might have some hope of getting the seek and destroy days back.
  72. 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.
  73. 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
  74. AliM.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Metallica's best work in 17 years!!!!!!!
  75. ChrisF.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Good stuff! Makes me forgive St. Anger.
  76. GaryK.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Best comeback since Bruce Dickinson's return to Iron Maiden.
  77. JamesF.
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    Their best album in 20 years i have no regrets buying it
  78. 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
  79. RobertK.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    It1s a really good material.The great return after St. Anger! HELL YEAH!
  80. DanielA.
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    I don't know how could any Metallica fan complain about 'Death Magnetic', including the naysayers and whiners who have been calling them sell-outs since the video for 'One' was on rotation on MTV. It's indeed the best Metallica album since 'The Black Album', and to some it might not be superior to the '84-'91 era of Metallica, but I don't know how could any Metallica fan complain about 'Death Magnetic', including the naysayers and whiners who have been calling them sell-outs since the video for 'One' was on rotation on MTV. It's indeed the best Metallica album since 'The Black Album', and to some it might not be superior to the '84-'91 era of Metallica, but it's quite close. Metallica fans are getting back what they've been asking for through all these years, heavier riffs, louder snares, longer guitar solos, and James screaming his lungs out. A solid effort that puts Metallica back on the right track.… Expand
  81. 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.
  82. LC
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    Metallica are back!
  83. AndyO.
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    Metallica's best album since 'Justice'. A long overdue and much welcomed return to form.
  84. DominicC.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    This is amazing. One of Metallica's best for sure!
  85. MarkM.
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    Thank you Rick Rubin for freeing Kirk Hammett--his solos have been sorely missed.
  86. toddm.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Metallics fans have their band back. From the opening note this record rips. The Unforgiven III was a poor choice but other than that Death Magnetic is the best Album they have done since "Justice"
  87. UlrikG.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Simply the best album ever!
  88. 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
  89. 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.
  90. 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.
  91. RonL.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Total kick A$$ album, get this disc, it will be the best album easily this year
  92. 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!
  93. SeanC.
    Sep 13, 2008
    2
    Music good, but the whole thing is distorted to hell. It has no power and no dynamics and sounds like your speakers have blown up. One of the worst sounding discs I've ever heard. Very low quality product from such an important band.
  94. MartinK.
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    Not single bad or filler song here, just great all the way through. Two thumbs up for Metallica!!
  95. IanW.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Easily sits along Master of Puppets and And Justice For All.
  96. Daniel
    Sep 13, 2008
    8
    All in all i think this is a great album. Sure it had a few flaws here and there but nothing is ever really perfect. The most disappointing aspect of the album for me were kirks leads,which, for the most part did nothing to elevate the songs and sometimes brought them down a touch. The production also left a little something to be desired, but does not really bother me too much. Overall All in all i think this is a great album. Sure it had a few flaws here and there but nothing is ever really perfect. The most disappointing aspect of the album for me were kirks leads,which, for the most part did nothing to elevate the songs and sometimes brought them down a touch. The production also left a little something to be desired, but does not really bother me too much. Overall the album not only met my expectations but passed them. I will be keeping this in my CD player for a long long time to come. Job well done Metallica Thank you.… Expand
  97. JohannesP.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Very good album, and there isn't any filler songs!
  98. JohnS.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Great album, boys are back in town with thrash metal !
  99. 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
  100. TonyM.
    Sep 13, 2008
    9
    This is easily their best work since ...And Justice For All and the best album of the new millenium. Old Metallica fans will feel right at home with that kick ass, in your face metal sound found on Death Magnetic. Kirk Hammet basically reinvents the speed metal guitar with some of his riffs and solos, and James's voice has changed a bit, yes, but I think it's for the better. If This is easily their best work since ...And Justice For All and the best album of the new millenium. Old Metallica fans will feel right at home with that kick ass, in your face metal sound found on Death Magnetic. Kirk Hammet basically reinvents the speed metal guitar with some of his riffs and solos, and James's voice has changed a bit, yes, but I think it's for the better. If you're a music fan in general, DO NOT pass up this album!… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

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

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
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.
    Read full review
  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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