Hardwired...To Self-Destruct
by Metallica
  • Record Label: Rhino
  • Release Date: Nov 18, 2016
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 399 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 332 out of 399
  2. Mixed: 33 out of 399
  3. Negative: 34 out of 399
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  1. ji_alireza
    Nov 18, 2016
    10
    The album is very divergent ,It is like ,they created an album which represents Metallica's 35 years of career in 13 songs(including Lords of Summer). Thrash metal, heavy metal, and hard rock all combines together in this album and this happened for the first time for Metallica. Anyone can pick up his favorite songs from it.
  2. jeffo2448
    Dec 13, 2016
    7
    The album has grown on me the past few weeks. This album definitely has some solid songs (Atlas, Rise!, Halo on Fire, Spit Out the Bone, Moth Into Flame and Hardwired are all pretty damn good). But there are a few tracks that are IMO - pretty undesirable and filler material. Sure these guys are getting old, but they can still put out a great album. I just think some of the songs lackThe album has grown on me the past few weeks. This album definitely has some solid songs (Atlas, Rise!, Halo on Fire, Spit Out the Bone, Moth Into Flame and Hardwired are all pretty damn good). But there are a few tracks that are IMO - pretty undesirable and filler material. Sure these guys are getting old, but they can still put out a great album. I just think some of the songs lack creativity and ambition, but luckily a few of the tracks save them.… Expand
  3. BIOHAZARD-R-US
    Dec 21, 2016
    9
    Absolutely loved this album, and I'm so happy to have some new Metallica music after waiting so long. With thrashy riffs to heavy riffs to melodic riffs, Metallica has it all on this album. Taking influences from Kill 'Em All, ...And Justice For All, The Black Album, Load/ReLoad and Death Magnetic, this album creates the definitive Metallica experience. The only 2 major gripes I have withAbsolutely loved this album, and I'm so happy to have some new Metallica music after waiting so long. With thrashy riffs to heavy riffs to melodic riffs, Metallica has it all on this album. Taking influences from Kill 'Em All, ...And Justice For All, The Black Album, Load/ReLoad and Death Magnetic, this album creates the definitive Metallica experience. The only 2 major gripes I have with this album is that it's on 2 discs, and the kick drum sound. At 77 minutes of music, this could've easily fit on 1 disc. Load was just over 79 minutes. It's bothersome to have to switch out CDs after 6 songs/35 minutes of music only. The kick drums sound like flicking a post-it note at some points, and other times have the heavy-weighted thud that a kick should have. I guess that might be because this whole record was recorded over a year-plus time span. But the snare sounds great!

    The weakest track of the album would have to be Dream No More, as every other song has something memorable from it, often times the chorus. Halo On Fire and Am I Savage? are great examples of this. The thrashy bookend of the title track and the fan favorite Spit Out the Bone is a nice format, wrapping everything in a nice barbed wire bow. The Lemmy tribute still keeping with the sound of the rest of the album and not a random trip off into Motörhead sound was well done. I think tribute songs should be done this way. The only thing I was confused on was the Black Metal theme that the video for Man UNkind had, which didn't really fit the song. The song does not have a Black Metal sound to it, but instead fits right in with the sound of the rest of the album. I must say, making a music video for each song was awesome, and to do all of them in 2 months is astonishing. Metallica have said that the wait for the next album won't be another 8 years, and Kirk is even using some of the riffs he didn't get to use on this album and some new ones to start shaping the next album. Rob has expressed that he is pumped up from this record and that his creativeness is flowing too, so that's even better. The Lords of Metal have returned!    … Expand
  4. gigizayn
    Dec 22, 2016
    8
    Exceeds Expectations, Best Metallica Album Since Load (1996)

    Hardwired... To Self-Destruct for 1 point= 8/10 is better than Death Magnetic (2008) 7/10... Hardwired... is too good that of Metallica i just listen the new songs of the album now, MOMENT, but it's almost perfect H...TS-D Will be Better if Am I Savage & Murder One isn't on album these two are very weak one simple bad    Exceeds Expectations, Best Metallica Album Since Load (1996)

    Hardwired... To Self-Destruct for 1 point= 8/10 is better than Death Magnetic (2008) 7/10...

    Hardwired... is too good that of Metallica i just listen the new songs of the album now, MOMENT, but it's almost perfect

    H...TS-D Will be Better if Am I Savage & Murder One isn't on album these two are very weak one simple bad ones...

    And Dream No More, Here Comes The Revenge & ManUnkind is almost Perfect tracks.

    Hardwired, Atlas, Rise!, Now That We're Dead, Moth Into Flame, Halo On Fire, Confusion & Spit Out The Bone are PERFECT Masterpieces!!!

    Long Live Metallica!!!    … Expand
  5. Perzonallica
    Nov 21, 2016
    9
    I think nowadays its in a mode to trash Metallica whatever they do or write. For people who wants the good old Metallica back: It will never happen and nor will with your favorite band neither. These people just want MoP, BA, AJFA albums every two year from them.
    HtSD has its ups and downs, it's not their best album, but because of it's diversity, tempo, lyrics its much more what I    I think nowadays its in a mode to trash Metallica whatever they do or write. For people who wants the good old Metallica back: It will never happen and nor will with your favorite band neither. These people just want MoP, BA, AJFA albums every two year from them.
    HtSD has its ups and downs, it's not their best album, but because of it's diversity, tempo, lyrics its much more what I expected from them. If you listen to all the songs from the first one to the last one, and when you reach the last one of them (Spit out the Bones), I just don’t understand how can somebody who listens to metal give to this album 0-4 points… But again, we are not the same.    … Expand
  6. matti12389
    Nov 19, 2016
    9
    I Know there are old fans who maybe wouldn't like this album very much but... but it is Metallica through time and up to the very date. So why should i dishonor while this Atlas can make me Riiiiise...
  7. luiseramirez
    Nov 18, 2016
    9
    I think Harwired to Self-Destruct is fantastic, not because it is similar or not to another album, influence or time in their career. I loved it because musically, at least for me, sounds great. Sometimes is fast, sometimes is heavy, sometimes is melodic! Personally, I didn’t like only 2 of the 12 songs (or 13 if you count Lords of Summer), but not because of this the album sucked, all theI think Harwired to Self-Destruct is fantastic, not because it is similar or not to another album, influence or time in their career. I loved it because musically, at least for me, sounds great. Sometimes is fast, sometimes is heavy, sometimes is melodic! Personally, I didn’t like only 2 of the 12 songs (or 13 if you count Lords of Summer), but not because of this the album sucked, all the contrary, it rocks big time.
    If you haven’t heard it already, please do, try not to compare it with anything else. For me, is almost logical to sound like a mix of different stages and influences Metallica has accumulated during 35 years, after all, If you don’t evolve in 35 years, something is very wrong with you.
    Hardwired to self destruct sounds like Kill ‘em All + AJFA + Black Album + Reload, with some influences from Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath and even Alice in Chains (opinions will differ).
    Don’t expect a come back to the 80’s… That discussion has taken forever now, anytime a new Metallica album arrives, even when Ride the Lightning and Master of Puppets were launched some people found them lame. Those albums took 20 years to become classics.
    Long live Metallica, solid 9/10 for Hardwired to Self-destruct.    … Expand
  8. Valeri12580
    Nov 19, 2016
    10
    Metallica is back with Hardwired...T Self Destruct after 8 years since Death Magnetic.This album is great!All songs have videos..the riffs are heavy..perfect
  9. IsacHades
    Nov 19, 2016
    9
    This album is so diverse. It is not directed to a certain fans but it's for everybody. The DNA of the first five albums is definitely present in this album. The mere fact that they're still making music, touring and putting a lot of efforts at their age when they don't have to is just unbelievable.
  10. dmac80
    Nov 21, 2016
    8
    Great album after a looooong wait. This has really put Death Magnetic their previous release into better perspective. This has better grooves, catchier and more memoral riffs in every way. The songs are equally as long, and in some cases could definitely benefit from trimming a little fat....But overall I'm very pleased.

    Highlights: Halo on Fire (closest thing to a power ballad, ending    Great album after a looooong wait. This has really put Death Magnetic their previous release into better perspective. This has better grooves, catchier and more memoral riffs in every way. The songs are equally as long, and in some cases could definitely benefit from trimming a little fat....But overall I'm very pleased.

    Highlights: Halo on Fire (closest thing to a power ballad, ending is phenomenal), Atlas Rise, Moth into Flame, Confusion, Spit out the Bone (Vicious thrash track). Several others are catchy and fun as well, out of 12 tracks 9 of them are solid, with maybe 2 or 3 duds.

    I'd like to respond to someone who rated the album a "2" below and claimed it wasn't as good as St Anger.......Either he's trolling or high on crack. St Anger, with 0 solos, tin can drumming, and "garage band production" is not even remotely in the same league as this album production wise or song wise.    … Expand
  11. hetfieldrocks82
    Dec 14, 2016
    10
    Let's get this out the way first off: I'm a HUGE Metallica fan. I've loved their music since a very young age after hearing Master Of Puppets and have followed their every release with bated breath.

    I am not a thrash purist who hated on the Black Album then Load eras because bands should be free to express themselves in any way they like without being labelled as sellouts etc. The    Let's get this out the way first off: I'm a HUGE Metallica fan. I've loved their music since a very young age after hearing Master Of Puppets and have followed their every release with bated breath.

    I am not a thrash purist who hated on the Black Album then Load eras because bands should be free to express themselves in any way they like without being labelled as sellouts etc. The Black Album and subsequent Load/Reload eras are important because they reflected where Metallica as a band, and the musicians themselves were at - at those times.

    Right, on to Hardwired To Self Destruct.

    I LOVE this album. There, I said it.

    From the trickle releases of Hardwired, Moth Into Flame and Atlas, Rise!, my excitement for the album grew by the minute until I got my hands on the deluxe edition. A culmination of their entire career, Hardwired To Self Destruct is a brilliant album with heavy riffs, melody, harmonies and Hetfield's trademark snarl.

    Hardwired starts the album off with a nod to their debut album - Kill Em All. Thrashy, fast, short and full of spite - Hardwired was the last song to be written for the album and kicks off the energy by turning up the intensity to 11. Next up is Atlas Rise which is my favourite song on the whole album. The verses are punchy - the chorus insanely catchy and the breakdown and dual harmonising section hair-raising. Now That We're Dead is a slower chugging rocker with a catchy chorus and great guitar work; Moth Into Flame - which has possibly the finest chorus Metallica have written in years - is another powerhouse track which is then followed by Cthulhu-based Dream No More. Dark, foreboding and powerful - much like Cthulhu himself - Dream No More is a monster of a track. Finishing off the first disc is Halo On Fire which has some really enticing tempo changes and a great chorus.

    Confusion starts the second disc off and is one of the strongest tracks on the whole album. Kinda reminds me of Harvester Of Sorrow if it was written in 2016 - chugging riffs, soaring chorus and Hetfield's growls throughout. ManUnkind starts with a Cliff Burton-tribute bass section by Robert Trujillo which is superb and the song itself is pretty damn catchy. Here Comes Revenge is another powerhouse track followed by Am I Savage which is probably my least favourite on the album but still a good track either way. Murder One is next with some great riffs and James snarling away in tribute to Lemmie from Motorhead before we get to the magnus opus of the album - Spit Out The Bone. Wow - this track. It blew me away the first handful of times I listened to it and still makes me go kinda nuts when I listen. Thrashy, powerful, angry and fast with some awesome vocals, lyrics and some of the best guitar playing by Hetfield and Hammett in years.

    All in all a fantastic album by the kings of metal.
    I shall continue to ignore the naysayers and enjoy the album like I always do.

    Metallica forever!    … Expand
  12. Pitovnikov
    Nov 18, 2016
    10
    This is exactly what I expected to hear from Metallica. There are awesome midtempo songs: Dream No More, Now That We're Dead, Am I Savage?, Murder One which reminds of Black album and Load-Reload era, but also there are thrashy old school songs: Hardwired, Atlas, Rise!, Here Comes Revenge, Moth Into Flame and of course Spit Out the Bone. Songs like Here Comes Revenge, ManUNkind and Halo onThis is exactly what I expected to hear from Metallica. There are awesome midtempo songs: Dream No More, Now That We're Dead, Am I Savage?, Murder One which reminds of Black album and Load-Reload era, but also there are thrashy old school songs: Hardwired, Atlas, Rise!, Here Comes Revenge, Moth Into Flame and of course Spit Out the Bone. Songs like Here Comes Revenge, ManUNkind and Halo on Fire are totally new kind of stuff for Metallica. Overall it's a fantastic album. Metallica is back MFs!… Expand
  13. muldjord
    Nov 28, 2016
    7
    About 4 good songs on here. And by "good" I mean something that fits into my personal preference when it comes to Metallica. Which is the old style of 81-88 or so. The aggressive stuff. Luckily it seems that James has managed to dig a bit deeper with the vocal style this time around, and found some of that much needed aggression. I never liked his cleaner vocals which seemed to manifestAbout 4 good songs on here. And by "good" I mean something that fits into my personal preference when it comes to Metallica. Which is the old style of 81-88 or so. The aggressive stuff. Luckily it seems that James has managed to dig a bit deeper with the vocal style this time around, and found some of that much needed aggression. I never liked his cleaner vocals which seemed to manifest itself and take hold after the Black Album.

    Unfortunately the album overall seem bland to me. Too much filler and the songs just tend to drag on for ages without any reason to do so.

    If they had taken the style of "Spit out the Bone" and run with it, this would be an awesome album! But I would be naive to expect that. The guys are getting old, and I have complete understanding of the shifting focus of style. It's just not something I am interested in listening to.    … Expand
  14. rizzyD10
    Nov 19, 2016
    9
    I love it. The band as a collective coalesced a mix of heavy and energetic sound. So kudos to their sound engineers. In my opinion I can't say it's similar to any of their previous albums. This is probably their best work since the black album.
  15. jmneeley06
    Nov 18, 2016
    10
    A wonderful return from an old friend. Metallica is back with Hardwired....To Self Destruct with some of their strongest material in over 25 years. They sound passionate, inspired and re-energized after 8 years since Death Magnetic.
  16. Bonovox
    Nov 18, 2016
    10
    Metallica is back to glory! Spit out the Bone is already a thrash metal classic to me. Cannot wait to hear these song in a live setting. See you in tour 2017!
  17. Ratz81
    Nov 18, 2016
    10
    A blistering return to form for the gods of metal. Some will bemoan the length but after 8 years its exactly what i was craving. While there are undoubted lulls the majority of album is a belter and is some of the best stuff Metallica have ever done let alone recently.

    A Triumphant Return
  18. GMMULLER
    Nov 18, 2016
    10
    Good album of Metallica, with great sound variety! Moth to Flame, Hardwired and Here Comes Revenge are excellent songs of this album. Spit Out the Bone is masterpiece of all time!
  19. harry939
    Nov 18, 2016
    9
    The first ever Metallica song I heard was "All Nightmare Long". It was more than enough to keep me hooked. After finishing up Death Magnetic, which is still my favorite Metallica album(I know, I am in the minority), I went on to AJFA and MOP, and enjoyed them thoroughly.
    I feel that Hardwired might very well be the last Metallica album, I certainly want them to end on a high note. And    The first ever Metallica song I heard was "All Nightmare Long". It was more than enough to keep me hooked. After finishing up Death Magnetic, which is still my favorite Metallica album(I know, I am in the minority), I went on to AJFA and MOP, and enjoyed them thoroughly.
    I feel that Hardwired might very well be the last Metallica album, I certainly want them to end on a high note. And this album is definitely a high note. They have beautifully revisited their masterpieces with this.
    Starting with the shortest, but the most in-your-face track, and ending with an amazing riff-laden "Spit out the bone", this album takes you on a ride.
    Even if you weren't taken to the album at first, this will surely grow on you. I absolutely loved it and I don't it will wear off on me in a long time.    … Expand
  20. Verblone
    Nov 19, 2016
    8
    8 years after their last album , Metallica came back with this album, honestly
    I am an huge fan of metallica, I like quite their songs .
    When they released "hardwired" and 2 other songs ( Moth/Altas) , I said : "yes , metallica is back with trash songs " But when i listened to the album for the first time , I was really disappointed because maybe I expected from it too much??    8 years after their last album , Metallica came back with this album, honestly
    I am an huge fan of metallica, I like quite their songs .

    When they released "hardwired" and 2 other songs ( Moth/Altas) , I said : "yes , metallica is back with trash songs "
    But when i listened to the album for the first time , I was really disappointed because maybe I expected from it too much??
    After having listened it 2 or 3 times , I realized that other songs were not too bad ( spit out the bone / halo on fire / manUNkind)

    So , I think ,It's not the best and not the worst album of Metallica , it has really good song and it has bad song and for me every fan of metal can listen this album and love it !

    (Sorry if my english is bad , i'm french )    … Expand
  21. Cokecan
    Nov 19, 2016
    4
    Inspired in places, tired in others. How people can rate this 10/10 is beyond me, Have they never heard Kill'em all, Master of Puppets, Ride the Lighting etc.

    Don't get me wrong it does have a couple of very good songs on there and if you have the 3 disc special addition the cover songs on that are "quite nice" But all in all it's more torture than pleasure, songs outstay there    Inspired in places, tired in others. How people can rate this 10/10 is beyond me, Have they never heard Kill'em all, Master of Puppets, Ride the Lighting etc.

    Don't get me wrong it does have a couple of very good songs on there and if you have the 3 disc special addition the cover songs on that are "quite nice"

    But all in all it's more torture than pleasure, songs outstay there welcome, and drag on needlessly..
    It's a shame, Moth into flame and the Hard Wired songs they released to tease you is exactly what they did as they are probably the best two on there..

    Time to face the fact that the Metallica of old is well and truly gone....    … Expand
  22. amkosh
    Nov 18, 2016
    10
    Проблема практически всех новых альбомов большинства легендарных исполнителей гигантов индустрии, заключается чаще всего в том, что им никак не удается избежать сравнения с их прошлыми работами. Даже самые преданные фанаты ждут не новых песен любимой группы, а повторения тех эмоций, которые они испытали, когда только лишь познакомились с ее творчеством. В итоге получается, что оценивают наПроблема практически всех новых альбомов большинства легендарных исполнителей гигантов индустрии, заключается чаще всего в том, что им никак не удается избежать сравнения с их прошлыми работами. Даже самые преданные фанаты ждут не новых песен любимой группы, а повторения тех эмоций, которые они испытали, когда только лишь познакомились с ее творчеством. В итоге получается, что оценивают на новых альбомах, прежде всего не музыку, а степень схожести нового материала с наиболее любимым и успешным альбомом прошлого.
    Пионеры трэш-металла из Сан-Франциско Metallica, за свою вот уже 35-летнюю деятельность, не раз попадали под удар из-за своих творческих поисков. Начав свой музыкальный путь со сверхэнергичного, необузданного альбома “Kill’em all” 1983 года, уже своей второй пластинкой они вызвали бурю в фанатском стане и музыкальной прессе. Баллада Fade to Black стала причиной обвинения группы в продажности и чуть ли не уходе в попсу (эх, не знали фанаты тогда еще, что ждет их в 90-х). Но на протяжении всей своей истории участники группы никогда не шли на поводу у поклонников, не обращали внимания на едкие отзывы в прессе, а продолжали отстаивать свои творческие взгляды. Бесконечные поиски, эксперименты со звучанием, жанрами, стилями за три десятилетия вылились в 9 уникальных альбомов, каждый из которых остается объектом бурных дискуссий по сей день – у каждого альбома есть как преданные поклонники, так и ненавистники. Но в этом и ценность Metallica как творцов – не пожелав становиться заложниками одного единственного жанра, они не прекращали расширять свои музыкальные рамки, завоевав тем самым сердца миллионов поклонников рока по всему миру.
    Но даже у такого колоссального успеха есть обратная сторона. Теперь, в эру интернета, когда каждый может делиться своим мнением, не выходя из дома, непосредственно доносить свою оценку до исполнителя, ориентиры группы пошатнулись. Это стало видно в 2008 году с релизом альбома “Death Magnetic”, которым Metallica постаралась угодить поклонникам, бесконечно призывающим группу вернуться к своим корням и записать “второй Master of Puppets”. И несмотря на то, что альбом, за исключением совершенно ужасной работы звукоинженера, получился весьма неплохим и, действительно, полон отсылок к раннему творчеству группы, но все же при этом, он создает ощущение вымученного и совершенно неискреннего. Разумеется, фанаты вновь остались не удовлетворены. И снова недовольные комментарии заполонили интернет, но теперь уже громче всех кричали о самокопировании и жалких попытках играть так же яростно, как в молодые годы, забыв, что сами же и подтолкнули группу к этому.
    Джеймс Хэтфилд, в одном из недавних интервью рассказал, что больше Металлика больше не обращают внимание на критику в интернете и это очень похоже на правду. Новый альбом – не бездумная попытка сделать все как в старые времена (с обязательной баладой, инструменталом и Unforgiven 4), а бережное использование всего накопившегося за 3,5 десятилетия опыта. Там, где на Death Magnetic было самокопирование, на Hardwired лишь слабо уловимые отсылки. Альбом наполнен новыми для группы идеями и решениями, он разнообразен – тяжелый, мрачный, агрессивный, быстрый, техничный, прогрессивный. Приятно слышать, что Металлика вновь не боится экспериментов, вновь не идет на поводу у зацикленных на Master of Puppets поклонников, а продолжает заниматься творчеством и писать музыку, которую они любят.
    Отдельно хотелось бы отметить звук нового альбома. После богомерзкого звучания Death Magnetic, новый альбом радует прекрасным сведением – все инструменты хорошо слышны и не заставляют уши кровоточить спустя пару треков.

    Hardwired...To Self-Destruct – альбом, которого ждали все – многие чтобы облить его грязью, многие, чтоб в очередной раз обругать группу в отсутствии идей, паразитировании на прошлом, кто-то ждал, чтобы в очередной раз заявить, что раньше было лучше, а кто-то ждал потому что верил. Верили в то, что музыканты еще способны творить, способны удивлять и радовать своих поклонников, быть искренними и честными с ними. И знаете – все эти люди ждали не напрасно и каждый из них найдет в новом альбоме именно то, чего он ждал. Ненавистники – продолжат ненавидеть, завистники – завидовать, скептики и зацикленные на прошлом фэны все так же будут тосковать по старым времена, ну а те, кто любит группу, принимая все ее творчество, находя в каждом альбоме музыку себе по душе, получат то, что любят больше всего – Металлику. И последние останутся довольны на 100%, потому что группа пишет музыку для них – тех, кто с ними всегда и до конца.    … Expand
  23. Antonio17128
    Nov 19, 2016
    8
    This is most certainly the band's best album since 1996 (I liked Load) with a mixture of both Heavy and Thrash Metal along with some small elements of Hard Rock and Doom Metal. The production on the album is much better then it was on Death Magnetic with Rob's Bass finally being turned up making the sound much heavier. Spit Out The Bone is definitely the band's Thrashiest song since 1988This is most certainly the band's best album since 1996 (I liked Load) with a mixture of both Heavy and Thrash Metal along with some small elements of Hard Rock and Doom Metal. The production on the album is much better then it was on Death Magnetic with Rob's Bass finally being turned up making the sound much heavier. Spit Out The Bone is definitely the band's Thrashiest song since 1988 and is the best along with Moth Into Flame and Halo On Fire in my opinion. Only downside is that there is perhaps 2-3 fillers that the album could've done without. Definitely a must buy if you are a fan of the band!… Expand
  24. powerchord
    Nov 18, 2016
    10
    another sensory overload, will take a few spins to sink and when does its awesome.
    songs that stand out early beside the 3 singles "are here comes revenge" and "murder one" (great videos as well !!)
  25. Heshton
    Nov 18, 2016
    10
    Excellent album, very groovy and catchy, it has all the elements that we needed in a Metallica album, there are slow songs but very heavy also fast ones very thashy, its pretty balanced!
  26. Prosmooth
    Nov 19, 2016
    7
    Better than St. Anger (although, what isn't), not quite as good as Death Magnetic. Has a couple of more commercial tracks on it so they can go on Jimmy Fallon and creep up next to teen singers and try to stay relevant. Not a bad record at all from the blue hair brigade.
  27. agalloch
    Nov 18, 2016
    4
    Extremely disappointing. Keep hoping they'll return to form but it's long gone. Nothing noteworthy is on this album and I've listened to it twice in a row.
  28. zeus80
    Nov 18, 2016
    6
    Not great by any stretch, but surprisingly heavy at times and easily their best work in 20 years. They still seem to have issues with the drum sound, and too many of the tracks seem to have extra long intros.
  29. Aaadertg
    Nov 18, 2016
    8
    Great album. Great songs include "Now that we're dead", "Here comes revenge" and "Dream no more". It's a little bit bumpy with a couple of not so great songs including "ManUNkind" and "Murder one". Overall it's definitely a step back to the right direction and definitely the best album from Metallica since black album. A very solid 8/10.
  30. Hoodygoer
    Nov 18, 2016
    3
    Very disappointing album. Glad I listened to it on Spotify first, won't be wasting $ on buying this now. Hard Wired, Moth and Atlas are pretty good songs and got me interested in hearing the album before it came out but the rest is a turgid pile of ****
  31. somedude14
    Nov 18, 2016
    2
    Guitar tone continues to get thinner (thanks to aging instrumentalists and studio engineers). Full of bloat and uninspired riffs. Doesn't do much more than provide evidence to why metal gods are better off when they die before they turn 30.

    Atlas is worth listening to once, though.
  32. ptea
    Nov 18, 2016
    4
    They have done lots and lots of work to sound like Metallica. Good job guys you sound like Metallica, because you are Metallica, or should I say you once were Metallica. Overproduced, simple. Trainlike, boring, music that anyone who knows how to play metal can do in five minutes. I still remember that you were the ones that developed this kind of sound from trash-metal, I am quite thankfulThey have done lots and lots of work to sound like Metallica. Good job guys you sound like Metallica, because you are Metallica, or should I say you once were Metallica. Overproduced, simple. Trainlike, boring, music that anyone who knows how to play metal can do in five minutes. I still remember that you were the ones that developed this kind of sound from trash-metal, I am quite thankful for it.You just lost your touch. Calling you the Kings of metal is awful. There is and there always has been better metal bands even before your band was founded.… Expand
  33. Play4Blood79
    Nov 19, 2016
    3
    So I have heard the new Metallica album in its entirety. This album is just okay. There is about 4 big highlight songs that I enjoy. Not to say that the other songs are crap, but they lack the punch of Spit out the bone, hardwired, moth into flame, and atlas rise. The songs, with the exception of Hardwired are waaaaay to long. Less is more sometimes. The arrangements sound like parts ofSo I have heard the new Metallica album in its entirety. This album is just okay. There is about 4 big highlight songs that I enjoy. Not to say that the other songs are crap, but they lack the punch of Spit out the bone, hardwired, moth into flame, and atlas rise. The songs, with the exception of Hardwired are waaaaay to long. Less is more sometimes. The arrangements sound like parts of other songs that could have been put together for another album. Most of the songs sound Death Magnetic Ishmael. There are some shining moments where they take queues from some of thier thrashier days, but they are few. Kirk Hammett has no writing get credit on this album! and his solos are forgettable. Lars. Don't get me started. The drumming on this album is probably the worst part. It is juvenile. I would expect a little more for 8 years of waiting. They certainly used a hype train in the media towards thier fans by saying they took a look at thier roots all the way back to kill em all. Well, maybe on 2 songs. 12 tracks at 4 minutes on one disc would have been far better than 7 min songs on 2 discs. Anyways, that's my rant.… Expand
  34. Seeker
    Nov 18, 2016
    0
    There is only a few old metal bands who manage to live up to their own glory. Looking at this album, it is not very hard to understand that Metallica is not one of them.
  35. Krakadon
    Nov 20, 2016
    2
    Disclaimer - I think reviews are BS and critic’s opinions aren't worth more than anyone else's. Also I worshipped James Hetfield and would still probably list Metallica as my favorite band of all time and I can’t hold their jock. But I have to provide a countermeasure to some of these ludicrously positive reviews. Come on Kerrang! 10 out of 10? Best stuff since the Black Album? HowDisclaimer - I think reviews are BS and critic’s opinions aren't worth more than anyone else's. Also I worshipped James Hetfield and would still probably list Metallica as my favorite band of all time and I can’t hold their jock. But I have to provide a countermeasure to some of these ludicrously positive reviews. Come on Kerrang! 10 out of 10? Best stuff since the Black Album? How much did you get paid for that review? Not even remotely true. There are four very strong, not great, tracks on an album that otherwise was chore to listen through and should have been edited down to less than 45 minutes. Part of the problem with being stupendously great is that you are graded against yourself and this is another terrible Metallica album, better than Death Magnetic, not as good as St. Anger, definitely not as good as Load or Reload. I won’t go into the details of why it isn’t good or which player is weak here or there. The songs aren’t that good. I won’t relisten to most of them. Like a said a few are very strong and will go into my library. Final thoughts, James please pick up an acoustic guitar and write songs on it without feeling the need to prove you still have the angst you had when you were 20.… Expand
  36. REAPER007
    Nov 19, 2016
    5
    After this s**t my brother died in agony. This is all your fault. Its really far from Death Magnetic. They are just old and can't make smthing normal again. METALLICA IS DEAD!
  37. Roagie
    Dec 15, 2016
    0
    This album is a step backwards from Death Magnetic. Death Magnetic had something to prove, and it worked; they could still rock and write some intricate songs. This new album is uninspired and plain boring.
  38. OnlyOneKenobi
    Nov 18, 2016
    10
    Love them or hate them, Metallica is a force to be reckoned with in the music arena. Being the one most recognised names in Hard Rock and Metal, they do what they want to do whenever they feel like it. The band has dabbled in different genres of metal and hard rock music, and this album - their first full studio album in eight years, is a celebration of their tenure in the industry. ThereLove them or hate them, Metallica is a force to be reckoned with in the music arena. Being the one most recognised names in Hard Rock and Metal, they do what they want to do whenever they feel like it. The band has dabbled in different genres of metal and hard rock music, and this album - their first full studio album in eight years, is a celebration of their tenure in the industry. There is something for everyone on this album. Some tracks such as Now That We're Dead and Here Comes Revenge is reminiscent of their work on the Black album, where Moth Into Flame and Atlas, Rise! would feel right at home on Death Magnetic. If you like heavy, then Tallica gives you heavy baby - with tracks like Dream No More being similar in feel to classics such as The Thing That Should Not Be and Sad But True. Tracks such as Lords of Summer and Spit Out the Bone harken back to the band's trash-metal origins. The songs Confusion and Am I Savage feel like a blend of the Load and Ride the Lightning styles... In my opinion, this sits right next to (or slightly above) the Metallica, aka Black Album which had been my personal favourite. In closing, the production quality on this album is superb. There are no Death Magnetic - type sound clipping issues here and no trace of the "garage band" quality recordings that were present on St. Anger.
    In short, if you like Metallica, then waste no time and go buy this album NOW!    … Expand
  39. A7sus4
    Nov 20, 2016
    8
    I've always been indifferent about Metallica, at times loved to hate, but I gotta admit, this is pretty good. The first disc is stronger in my opinion as the second disc feels a little sluggish. The rhythm guitar is really the highlight all over, but plenty of **** and solid performance all around.
  40. Soy
    Nov 19, 2016
    7
    Good, not great. Could've shed a couple songs from the latter half of disc two and made it a tighter overall experience. Nothing really jumped out and grabbed me like, say, All Nightmare Long or Cyanide did on Death Magnetic. Still solid - and definitely grab the deluxe edition for the four bonus studio tracks. Lords of Summer is good, and the other three are a nice callback to Garage, Inc.
  41. Golbez
    Nov 19, 2016
    7
    This album takes a step back from Death Magnetic's speed and thrash toward familiar 90s mid temples like Load. The second best release since Black Album.
  42. raporgi
    Oct 24, 2017
    0
    complete pile of donkey buttocks! ignore the glowing reviews. there's nothing sadder than listening to this train wreck. there is no thrash metal here. its weak and limp wristed as that annoying turd of drummer that's running this band. Just listen to Slayer, Megadeth, Exodus etc newer albums. Hetfield's lyrics are still braindamaged as ever, Hammett is basically non-existent on thiscomplete pile of donkey buttocks! ignore the glowing reviews. there's nothing sadder than listening to this train wreck. there is no thrash metal here. its weak and limp wristed as that annoying turd of drummer that's running this band. Just listen to Slayer, Megadeth, Exodus etc newer albums. Hetfield's lyrics are still braindamaged as ever, Hammett is basically non-existent on this album. Newstead was right in leaving this used to be a band. Now its just Blackened inc, taking a page out of Gene SImmons manual. The remaining members are more into licensing and slapping their brand on crap like coffee makers, clothing lines and gawd knows what else.… Expand
  43. ydnar4
    Nov 21, 2016
    8
    Metallica's 10 album gives their fans a lot to digest with 12 songs that reach nearly 80 minutes, but there is not one dull track on Hardwired to Self Destruct. James Hetfield leads the way even more so than in the groups classic days. Kirk Hammett gives us all the excellent solos that we can handle and the riffing consistently blew me away.

    Hardwired is metal that falls into a few    Metallica's 10 album gives their fans a lot to digest with 12 songs that reach nearly 80 minutes, but there is not one dull track on Hardwired to Self Destruct. James Hetfield leads the way even more so than in the groups classic days. Kirk Hammett gives us all the excellent solos that we can handle and the riffing consistently blew me away.

    Hardwired is metal that falls into a few genres. There are a couple tracks that fall into Metallica's classic Thrash metal while some songs keep the tempo down but still the whole album fits together really well. The only real issue that I have with this album is that this is no real song that pops out on Hardwired to Self Destruct as a classic Metallica track that will never be forgotten. All the songs are consistently good. It just doesn't have the one song that fans can hear at their concerts every night.

    Regardless of that Hardwired is a very solid album. I recommend the deluxe edition as well. Its got a good price on it and there is a lot of great extra content that will hold you over until another new album is released.

    I highlight: Hardwired, Moth to Flame, Am I Savage?, Now That We're Dead, Spit Out the Bone and Here Comes Revenge.    … Expand
  44. dare
    Nov 21, 2016
    8
    if you just take album as it is, with no abnormal expectations as fanatic do, you will find album after several listening a very enjoyable. Lets face it, even if album didn't deliver, it is still a decent, giving a zero is just ridiculous. Am i savage is a beast of a song....
  45. Nanogon
    Nov 20, 2016
    7
    Lots of great hits from "Hardwired" up to "ManUNkind". Unfurtunately, the other 4 tracks were boring and failed to remain in my memory. Mixed to positive.
  46. PapaEmeritus
    Nov 18, 2016
    8
    It's good but not great. It doesn't even approach the greatness of their first four albums so if you are expecting it to then you need to lower your expectations. The production is way, way better than it was on Death Magnetic. The songs are also more straight forward and rock harder. Thankfully, James is back to singing the way he once did and not trying too hard to be a traditionalIt's good but not great. It doesn't even approach the greatness of their first four albums so if you are expecting it to then you need to lower your expectations. The production is way, way better than it was on Death Magnetic. The songs are also more straight forward and rock harder. Thankfully, James is back to singing the way he once did and not trying too hard to be a traditional singer here. So anyway, I think 7 of the songs are really good, a couple are okay, and about three should just not have been included.… Expand
  47. bernardvm
    Nov 18, 2016
    9
    The album is pretty awesome. A good mix of some real heavy stuff. The album is way better off than the previous two, but comparing it to the much older albums (like the Black album) wont be doing justice to this one.
  48. NKH36
    Nov 20, 2016
    2
    Otro disco con canciones de mas de 5 minutos obviavente con laaaaaaaargos "intros" y Riff de relleno, 4 canciones como la gente.

    Lo mejor que pueden hacer es "no hacer nada mas"...
  49. niebieskook
    Nov 26, 2016
    3
    This is what happens when few daddies try to play metal which itself is a music for young rebel youth.

    It is poor attempt to achieve what is not possible anymore - have the right energy and attitude to create honest music in this category. In place of honesty we have uninspirig, flat product created by few rich guys living in their own world,eating their own tail, trying to pretend    This is what happens when few daddies try to play metal which itself is a music for young rebel youth.

    It is poor attempt to achieve what is not possible anymore - have the right energy and attitude to create honest music in this category. In place of honesty we have uninspirig, flat product created by few rich guys living in their own world,eating their own tail, trying to pretend anger and rebelion - pitiful. Songs full of riffs and words,slogans we've already heard before... It would be much better and honest for them to follow and develop the path of "Load" which is their last good album they created...    … Expand
  50. AlexSans
    Sep 16, 2020
    1
    Aburrido es un álbum muy repetitivo carente de sonidos y melodías todo muy parecido no me gusto un álbum bastante pésimo.
  51. Captiosus
    Nov 22, 2016
    9
    Frankly this is the best Metallica has been since the Black Album. This isn't to say there haven't been good elements of "Load", "ReLoad", "St. Anger", or "Death Magnetic" but, frankly, all of those albums were lackluster as Metallica kept experimenting with changing styles. "Hardwired..." sees the band go back to their roots and, while not the thrash metal epic some had hoped, it'sFrankly this is the best Metallica has been since the Black Album. This isn't to say there haven't been good elements of "Load", "ReLoad", "St. Anger", or "Death Magnetic" but, frankly, all of those albums were lackluster as Metallica kept experimenting with changing styles. "Hardwired..." sees the band go back to their roots and, while not the thrash metal epic some had hoped, it's definitely in the same spirit as "...And Justice" and "Black" (with, yes, a few elements of "Load" thrown in, but not too much).

    Not to put too fine a point on it but outside of "S&M"'s two new singles -- No Leaf Clover and -Human -- very few of the aforementioned releases had any songs that particularly stuck in my head. Comparatively, "Hardwired..." has multiple songs I can't stop from bouncing around, including the title track, Atlas Rise!, Moth Unto Flame, Now That We're Dead, Halo on Fire, and Spit Out the Bone.

    The contingent of folks who yearn for a return of the "Ride the Lightning" or "Master of Puppets" era Metallica will likely be disappointed but these folks also seem to forget that the progenitors of the band are in their mid-50's and Lars banging out double drum thrash beats for an entire album is unlikely. Hardwired and Spit out the Bone illustrate that they still have thrash metal capabilities in their repertoire but can only use it in moderation. I get where those old school fans are coming from - I grew up on those albums also. But that was the 1980's and this is 2016. While it pains me to write this next line, consider: Megadeth keeps trying to relive their thrash days and look where that's gotten them (their last three albums have been forgettable).

    I'm a generally harsh critic (as my history here will attest) so to give this a 9 is high praise. If you liked "...And Justice" and/or "Black" and don't mind a few of the melodic elements of "Load" (specifically found on tracks like ManUNkind) then you're going to enjoy this album.    … Expand
  52. DavidXBOX
    Mar 6, 2017
    9
    Best album since Load. Atlas Rise, Now we are death... amazing tracks! Absolutely loved this album... we have Metallica for a long time! They have others tracks like Moth into flame or Spit out the bone that you have to listen to... very solid album
  53. NoMaDXT
    Dec 8, 2016
    9
    In a twist turn I completely did not expect. I saw the entry on Metacritic and immediately went out and bought the album and listened to it on the way home from work, and to work the next day. This album is a pays omage to Metallica's roots in Thrash metal, and to their later dabblings n hard rock. This is a beautifully balanced Album for every fan of Metallica. Wheter Reload or Ride theIn a twist turn I completely did not expect. I saw the entry on Metacritic and immediately went out and bought the album and listened to it on the way home from work, and to work the next day. This album is a pays omage to Metallica's roots in Thrash metal, and to their later dabblings n hard rock. This is a beautifully balanced Album for every fan of Metallica. Wheter Reload or Ride the lightning was your favorite album or whether you just love everything this band does. This album is a winner. I was a little let down by St. Anger. WIth this, the boys are back on form and have completely redeemed themeselves. A great Album for books boys well done!!… Expand
  54. LoRevisor
    Jan 5, 2017
    8
    Metallica made a Great Album!!!!, Not so good as the first 4 classics,

    But better than Black Album and slightly better than Death Magnetic, of cOURSE Million lights away to St. Anger.

    Top 6 Songs

    1-Halo On Fire
    2-Now That We're Dead
    3-Moth Into Flame
    4-Spit Out The Bone
    5-Atlas, Rise!
    6-Confusion
  55. Xevon
    Jun 23, 2017
    7
    Hardwired is not only a stronger album than it's predecessor Death Magnetic, but also a vastly more diverse one. Hardwired experiments with flavours we've not seen from Metallica before with catchy tracks like Moth into Flame all the while revisiting ideas Metallica has previously visited like the trash metal masterpiece Spit Out The Bone, the slow burning slightly evil Dream No More andHardwired is not only a stronger album than it's predecessor Death Magnetic, but also a vastly more diverse one. Hardwired experiments with flavours we've not seen from Metallica before with catchy tracks like Moth into Flame all the while revisiting ideas Metallica has previously visited like the trash metal masterpiece Spit Out The Bone, the slow burning slightly evil Dream No More and even a touch of Load/Reload with tracks like Now That We're Dead. One of the main things that makes Hardwired a notable improvement over Death Magnetic is that they're not trying so retrace their steps like they were, they're not grabbing at the possibility of a charting single or emulating older songs - they're stepping out of their comfort zone somewhat and making music more like the music they actually want to make, rather than what they feel obligated to make which makes all of the difference and makes the record feel more genuine and memorable. The production is a substantial step up from Death Magnetic and just about everything from Lars' drumming to James' singing sounding better than before - and while Hardwired doesn't hold a candle to Bob Rock's production work during the 90's, it's easily the best sounding studio album since Reload or Garage Inc. Make no mistake, the album isn't on par with the likes of Master of Puppets and tends to be a bit top heavy with the middle tracks of the second disc tending to make less of an impact than the rest of the album and the title track being arguably the worst thing on the album, but needless to say Hardwired is a competent effort from an aging metal band with more than enough musical goodness for Metallica diehards and those new to their content alike.… Expand
  56. TiffanyStarrxxx
    Nov 22, 2016
    10
    This album is like a mix between all of Metallica's other albums (minus the horrible St.Anger) There's something on this album for every Metal(lica) fan to enjoy. Some may be disappointed there's no instrumental track in Hardwired...To Self-Destruct, but with such a great set-list already you won't miss it too much. Pick it up since it's fairly cheap for a new Metallica release.
  57. jasharkowalski
    Nov 21, 2016
    7
    The recipe for good songs should be easy - give that "new", Suicidal guy, more space and let him accelerate guitar men, i guarantee the stuff would be fast and brutal....Hardwired has four good songs that are Au-pair with Metallica's ole-good-trash stuff, the rest is too much auto-pilot driven that could be landed on Load, Reload or even Black, you pick one....
  58. TheRyanFlaherty
    Nov 29, 2016
    6
    Many have called "Hardwired...To self Destruct" a return to form for Metallica, but one has to wonder if they live in an alternate universe where "Death Magnetic" doesn't exist.
    "HWTSD" ultimately suffers from it's inconsistencies. If you've been aware of the pre-release promotion, than you've already heard the best the album has to offer. Songs such as the Title Track, Moth into Flame,    Many have called "Hardwired...To self Destruct" a return to form for Metallica, but one has to wonder if they live in an alternate universe where "Death Magnetic" doesn't exist.
    "HWTSD" ultimately suffers from it's inconsistencies. If you've been aware of the pre-release promotion, than you've already heard the best the album has to offer. Songs such as the Title Track, Moth into Flame, Spit out the Bone and Atlas,Rise! are worthy additions to the Metallica catalogue, but for every standout there is a dud. Songs such as Now That We're Dead and ManUNkind, lack the creativity and sense of progression necessary to justify their track lengths. This leaves much of "HWTSD" feeling bloated. There isn't necessarily anything offensive to the senses, but it comes off as ambiance while working out at your local gym, and is easily forgettable.
    It is worth noting that there is a 3-Disc Limited Edition which adds at least a point to the score (if purchased) and is really a 10/10 if looking at sheer value.
    The Bonus disc is an album onto itself, featuring rarities and 10 Live tracks. It is a great companion piece, but it also illuminates the deficiencies of "HWTSD". . Remember Tomorrow is as good as anything on the actual album and Live renditions of songs like Creeping Death serve as a reminder of the heights the band obtained earlier in their career.
    "Hardwired...To Self-Destruct" is worth owning if you're a Metallica fan, especially if you can get the Limited release, but, while it's better than "St. Anger", it's also the type of album that will make you want to go listen to your past favorite Metallica albums rather than continually listening through "HWTSD" on repeat.    … Expand
  59. Epik_Ninnja
    Aug 13, 2017
    8
    I'd have to say Metallica is my favorite band and this album exemplifies why to an extent. It's not the best they've put out but it's sort of a combination of all of their styles. There's that 90's hard rock and laid back metal to that early age and Death Magnetic-type in your face thrash metal. All of the songs are at least pretty good and some are worth calling "really good" like Halo onI'd have to say Metallica is my favorite band and this album exemplifies why to an extent. It's not the best they've put out but it's sort of a combination of all of their styles. There's that 90's hard rock and laid back metal to that early age and Death Magnetic-type in your face thrash metal. All of the songs are at least pretty good and some are worth calling "really good" like Halo on Fire. Ultimately, Metallica's tenth studio album stands as a solid metal album.… Expand
  60. Zanessa250QI
    May 27, 2017
    7
    The album will be so much better if have 10 tracks could Delete the trash Murder One & Am I Savage is really very bad!!!!!

    ManUnkind & Dream no More is good to bad

    The rest is amazing & Masterpiece.
  61. nhand42
    Jan 4, 2017
    9
    Metallica re-embraces their thrash metal roots. Has the same energetic feeling as Ride the Lightning and Master of Puppets. They'll never have the same energy from 30 years ago, but they can still play a mean guitar solo, and kick out a wicked drum roll. Metallica continues to amaze after all these years.
  62. YT_Guyyy
    Feb 17, 2017
    7
    The album as a whole is not the greatest, but in metal standards is very good. All but the lead single 'Hardwired' run on for too long, and that's definitely the album's best song. It's nowhere near to being as good as 'Master of Puppets' or '...And Justice For All', but then again, it's not 'St.Anger.
  63. frank_hohenheim
    Nov 19, 2016
    7
    Metallica always do what they want regardless of criticism or opinions and this album is proof of it. It based on heavy music, powerful riffs and hard-situations lyrics.

    It's far beyond of their classic albums but sounds lots like Metallica. By moments this album becomes boring and exaggerated, but by other it makes you move your head. In my opinion was better "Death Magnetic" with    Metallica always do what they want regardless of criticism or opinions and this album is proof of it. It based on heavy music, powerful riffs and hard-situations lyrics.

    It's far beyond of their classic albums but sounds lots like Metallica. By moments this album becomes boring and exaggerated, but by other it makes you move your head.

    In my opinion was better "Death Magnetic" with all its aggressiveness, but "Hardwired... to Self-Destruct" is above "St. Anger", "Re-Load" and "Load".
    For me the songs that have the essence of thrash are the best: Moth Into Flame, Spit Out the Bone, Hardwired, Here Comes Revenge, and Atlas,Rise!    … Expand
  64. Adriandanaila
    Nov 22, 2016
    10
    A wonderful return from an old friend. Metallica is back with Hardwired....To Self Destruct with some of their strongest material in over 25 years. They sound passionate, inspired and re-energized after 8 years since Death Magnetic.
  65. Wuj
    Nov 23, 2016
    9
    Great comeback. The truth is that "Hardwired..." is one of the best hardrock and metal LP for several years.
    Without intellectual **** comparisons to the old days, bad words about selling themselves: Metallica wrote great songs once again. Buy this LP on CD or vinyl - put it to a HIFI, turn the volume on full and enjoy yourself. Dream no more, Murder One and halo on fire are just great.    Great comeback. The truth is that "Hardwired..." is one of the best hardrock and metal LP for several years.
    Without intellectual **** comparisons to the old days, bad words about selling themselves: Metallica wrote great songs once again. Buy this LP on CD or vinyl - put it to a HIFI, turn the volume on full and enjoy yourself. Dream no more, Murder One and halo on fire are just great. And Spit out the bone is simply one of the best Metallica songs ever.
    If some of songs were shorter, "Hardwired..." would become even more epic.    … Expand
  66. kennyrichie94
    Nov 25, 2016
    7
    It is basically what you'd expect from them. And that's that, not bad though, totally recommended even if you don't like the genre, but if you like it then you would've expected a bit more.
  67. deringerx
    Nov 26, 2016
    10
    The album is amazing...James voice is great.They create some amazing riffs,simple but amazing...Start with Hardwired to Spit ot of the bone...maaan Spit out of the bone is Insane.Again,James voice is amazing ... m/
  68. GeOgRaFuS
    Nov 27, 2016
    9
    After Metallica released 3 songs from the album, I thought it's going to be great and I wasn't disappointed. My impression was that Metallica didn't want to serve the crowds and make some radio hit songs, but to satisfy their hardcore fans instead, which I find a pretty good attitude.
    I think the songs are great, I like all of them. My only problem is that in some parts the lyrics is too    After Metallica released 3 songs from the album, I thought it's going to be great and I wasn't disappointed. My impression was that Metallica didn't want to serve the crowds and make some radio hit songs, but to satisfy their hardcore fans instead, which I find a pretty good attitude.
    I think the songs are great, I like all of them. My only problem is that in some parts the lyrics is too simple and I hoped there will be an instrumental track.
    All things considered, Hardwired... To Self-Destruct fulfilled my expectations and I'm happy to see Metallica still writes good songs and rocks.    … Expand
  69. MILCH
    Nov 27, 2016
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Esta producción tiene alma...!! aunque todo conocedor de la HISTORIA de METALLICA encuentra muchos riffs del pasado, lo cual esto en todo caso a veces es bueno regresar a tus raíces e incorporarlo a tu presente... decidir cual es la mejor canción aun me resulta dificil pero si puedo separar las mejores a mi juicio de este album... Hardwired, Atlas Rise, Now that we´re dead, Moth in to Flame, Halo of fire, Here comes the revenge y Spit out the bone...!!!!

    Un album pegado a las redes sociales que sin duda no baja de un 7 de calificación, no es un masterpiece pero si que puede ser la ultima de joya de metallica?    … Expand
  70. Lateralus07
    Nov 28, 2016
    9
    The album is great. The only people giving the album a 3 or less are people that only want the old Metallica sound. The album is very vocally driven. If you like James, you will like this album. I don't like making reviews until I've given the album many good listens, and I feel I am now qualified to. The production is better than most Metallica albums. There are many great, heavyThe album is great. The only people giving the album a 3 or less are people that only want the old Metallica sound. The album is very vocally driven. If you like James, you will like this album. I don't like making reviews until I've given the album many good listens, and I feel I am now qualified to. The production is better than most Metallica albums. There are many great, heavy riffs that work well with the vocals, and the drums are heavy, but I would have liked to see more fills consist of more than just 2-4 measures of 8th or 16th notes on the snare, but its Lars and he plays for the band. Whether you like a thrashy sound or powerful vocal driven music, there is something for you on here. I should mention that the album seems to have grown on me too, particularly the songs I didn't like at first. I would say it sounds more like Death Magnetic than any other Metallica album, and in reference to it, the best of DM is probably better than the best on Hardwired, but that's likely no the popular opinion as most people hated on DM. If your're a true Metallica fan, and you give it many listens, you will like it. Dream no more has a great communication between guitar and vocals. Spit out the bone is thrashy if you like that. Am I savage has some great heavy guitar work. Halo on fire is a very well-written song across all facets. Now that we're dead is another vocal driven song with great guitar work. I would actually say that Hardwired is easily the worst song on the album, what Metallica song is only 3 minutes long? Another important thing that you don't get from Metallica that often is you can actually hear the bass in the mix. It isn't thrown under heavy riffs to the point of being inaudible. Overall, the album gives off a complete vibe. It has a little bit of everything that we've heard from Metallica. The album is a great example of what you get when everyone in the band works together to create great music. There's a lot of energy coming from this album, and my less favorite songs have grown to be on the level of my favorites over the course of a week and a half.… Expand
  71. raphapira86
    Dec 5, 2016
    10
    Simply pure thrash with a dash of melodic metal! Thumbs up for Metallica again! m/
    It really was worth waiting for it! Thanks again, kings of thrash music
  72. nicolas_brisson
    Nov 30, 2016
    9
    I really liked this album! It's their best released since 25 years. I liked the Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden and Helloween influences! Nice riffs, but they made their songs in the same form than the firsts albums, like Murder One that is really similar to ... And Justice For All. But after all, it's a very good album nice to heard and reheard!
  73. Uros1987
    Dec 10, 2016
    10
    Great record,more diverse and progressive than last one. Hat off to the FOUR HORSEMAN !! Album contains instant classic songs such as Spit Out The Bone, Halo on Fire, Moth Into flame...
  74. JudgeShredd
    Dec 12, 2016
    6
    I've been a fan of Metallica since Ride the Lightning was released. The last great album for me was AJFA, i really didn't care much for the Black album and hated everything that came after. Death Magnetic was interesting but ultimately uninspiring. It was great to see the return of some aggression to their songs without the blatantly radio friendly hooks but the song writing was a bitI've been a fan of Metallica since Ride the Lightning was released. The last great album for me was AJFA, i really didn't care much for the Black album and hated everything that came after. Death Magnetic was interesting but ultimately uninspiring. It was great to see the return of some aggression to their songs without the blatantly radio friendly hooks but the song writing was a bit bland for my liking.
    I was pretty excited to hear this new album and have to say it is the best work they have done since AJFA. That said, it's far from perfect. One of the key things that made early Metallica shine was virtuosity. They rose the bar on every track and every consecutive album. The riffs on Hardwired are good but there is nothing groundbreaking, nothing that screams the Metallica of yore. The production is excellent but it lacks personality/colour - if you listen to the first four albums you will hear very distinctive sound palettes that are immediately recognisable. Hardwired just sounds like a highly produced metal album, like the engineers just wanted heavy crunchy guitars and perfect sounding drums rather than an album with a distinctively unique sound. The mix is excellent, everything sits amazingly and there is a nice sound of space I just think they should have tried something new in terms of guitar tones etc.
    The best element of the album is James' vocals - he managed to capture the aggression of AJFA and MOP and perfectly blended in the rock elements that he has now perfected over the past few albums. For me the vocal on Hardwired could be the best of any Metallica album.
    The most disappointing thing for me is the lack of musicality, the groove is there and the syncopated rhythms but the magic of the old days is gone. Metallica used to be the band that brought the listener on a musical journey. Guitar solos had direction and almost told a story. They were surrounded by melodic structures that stood alone like a tangental guitar symphony within each track and the solos themselves were technically brilliant and varied. The solos on this album sound like they were jammed out over a few takes, the over reliance on the wah pedal and limited pentatonic blues scale is a step backwards. I wouldn't mind of blistering speed was replaced with a higher level of feel and never heard before note arrangements but almost all of the lead guitar on this album sounds sloppy and devoid of any substance. It sounds like a not so great guitarist doing an impression of Kirk.
    Like many other listeners, I also think the album could definitely have been trimmed down, there are a few unnecessary filler tracks that should have never made the cut. An instrumental track would have been nice too but given the direction that Kirk's guitar playing and style has taken I think it might have exposed too much.
    All in all it's a mixed bag - bottom line is the vocals on this album make it worth while.    … Expand
  75. ClaireW
    Jan 1, 2017
    10
    Another masterpiece of music! A superb album. Hardwired ........ To Thrill Me! Bring it on Metallica, you rock me heavy and hard!!!! Love, love, love it! xx
  76. MAFIAxMaverick
    Mar 19, 2017
    10
    Feels like a return to form. I haven't enjoyed Metallica this much in years. There's not a song on this album I don't like. You can definitely tell that James Hetfield's voice has started to drop off, but it's still a treat to listen to nonetheless. The band seemed to really be firing on all cylinders here, which was much needed after the disappointment that was Death Magnetic.
  77. HeavyMetal
    Apr 19, 2017
    10
    With heavy tracks such as "hardwired", "moth into flame", "lords of summer", "spit out the bone", etc, this is by far the best Metallica album since the black album. This album really shows James Hetfield's riff writinglyric writing skills, Lars Ulrich's drumming skills, Kirk Hammet's awesome guitar solos, and Robert Trujillo's awesome bass lines. Metallica is back!
  78. TallicaDude83
    Sep 2, 2017
    10
    Well first i want to say that i don't get the bad reviews ???? I mean almost everyone even positive reviews compare it to their past,or to what's relevant to the times,but i would say compare it to what it is...music! A simple ear test is all you need,no need to get too scientific about it,that has been a huge problem that ive seen,everyone bringing up the past,but onto my review...tbhWell first i want to say that i don't get the bad reviews ???? I mean almost everyone even positive reviews compare it to their past,or to what's relevant to the times,but i would say compare it to what it is...music! A simple ear test is all you need,no need to get too scientific about it,that has been a huge problem that ive seen,everyone bringing up the past,but onto my review...tbh there is an element missing from this and DM for that matter,and i think i have finally figured out,it's the honesty..and not like it sounds,i think it is honest but tue way it is honest is different,it's not like load n reload where they are honestly expressing their self with complete originality...no they are being honest by that plus they purposely make a point to touch on other topics i.e ptsd in "Confusion" or thrashy rebellion in "Hardwired" not that specific topics aren't original it's that it has a feel of let's do this because it is a topic of todays society or at least in some form it is,in other words being relevant,and that us fine,no problem with being relevant as long as you don't overdue it or make it the end all be all and on this album i feel like they got specific with it more than any other album but not so much so that that they come off as "sell outs" bc after all for them in todays world you would have to a little or there would be no point in making an album,it is also an artistic expression to have relevancy in your music albeit it should come more naturally than purposely,as far as tracks go everyone blows "Hardwied" out of proportion imho,it is great and although for me comparing Metallica songs is like comparing which is more important your heart or brain,there are differences and i do not see it like everyone else,i think every track is great in it's own way just like their whole catalogue,i honestly just love every original and some cover songs Metallica has done,the way i judge Metallica is simply if they are truly being themselves,not by genre,my own preferences,their past etc...i feel the only way to correctly hear them or any artist as it applies,is to not make excuses,for Metallica that means none for or against 80's and 90's styles,i love and respect that they aren't being bland with thrash from the 80's or commercial 90's..necassarily.I got what i wanted and feel like where they are from this album 10/10...metal up m/… Expand
  79. LoletinAlexis
    Jun 6, 2019
    7
    Hardwired ... To Self-Destruct is a good album. It does not reach the level of excellence of the classic works of Metallica, but it is not far behind either.
    Excessive length and some filler songs do him a bad favor.
  80. Kadirov
    Jul 5, 2019
    5
    I ll be honest. Garage bands whose members are 7th grade students make better music.
    What I considered to be too banal and overused in my own songs, Metallica used in this album.
    The album is weak, boring and has no listenable songs, in my opinion.
    There are much better albums that don't get even 1% of this albums exposure.
  81. Codeling
    Aug 7, 2021
    8
    Great album. Spit Out the Bone is one of the best Metallica songs ever.
    Best songs: Spit Out the Bone, Moth into Flame, Halo on Fire
    Worst songs: -
  82. MrCell
    Mar 26, 2021
    8
    This album has a couple weak tracks, but "spit out the bone" is one of metallicas most well made songs, the first five tracks are also really good
  83. Dekielek112
    Feb 20, 2023
    6
    The first disc is modern Metallica, blending commercial sounds with thrash metal. The songs on disc 1 are so good, so beautiful it's unbelievable. However, as soon as we switch discs the quality of songwriting plummets down. On disc 2, the songs are too long, overdone, and lack any hook that could hold the listener to the chair. The biggest issue with instrument work - Hammett "overwahs"The first disc is modern Metallica, blending commercial sounds with thrash metal. The songs on disc 1 are so good, so beautiful it's unbelievable. However, as soon as we switch discs the quality of songwriting plummets down. On disc 2, the songs are too long, overdone, and lack any hook that could hold the listener to the chair. The biggest issue with instrument work - Hammett "overwahs" and it is hearable - is the solos are muddy at some points and lack any cool techniques except the whammy bar.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

17
#17 Most Discussed Album of 2016
38
#38 Most Shared Album of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
73

Generally favorable reviews - based on 29 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 17 out of 29
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 29
  3. Negative: 1 out of 29
  1. Record Collector
    Jan 26, 2017
    60
    Hardwired is a slightly less gripping version of the same, as is Moth Into Flame. There’s some sweet doom in the form of Dream No More, an obvious Sabbath homage, and a nod to their late mentor Lemmy with Murder One. In between, we’re treated to a lot of mid-tempo plodding.
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  2. The Wire
    Dec 21, 2016
    80
    This is the adult Metallica at last, monolithic, grandiose and grizzled. Maturity suits the band, makes them a weightier proposition than the pursuit of former glories ever could. [Dec 2016, p.62]
  3. No Ripcord
    Nov 30, 2016
    60
    It's too long, with too many tracks that go nowhere. But those songs that do work are some of their best in the last couple of decades.
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