See, that's what I don't get. I thought the production was pretty good. A lot of songs on that album are some of my all time favorite Metallica songs.

I can't even listen to this album anymore. The production is awful and the whole album feels contrived and lacks the organic quality of previous releases.

There are some great riffs and passages of play but as a whole it's a sterile album that confirmed Cliff Burton was the 'warmth' of the band. Newsted was treated appallingly on this album and I am surprised he hung around as long as he did.

I, for one, was really disappointed when Jason left the band. He seemed to give the band an equilibrium - a balance to the runaway egos of James and Lars.

No offence to Jason's replacement (the fact that, in all honesty, I don't know his name speaks volumes), but I've never been able to take to Metallica since he left.

I like the review. I've heard much worse recordings, and have no problem with the production whatsoever. Burton's gone, but Lars steps up big time, provides what I think is his best drumming performance. IMO a thrash drummer > than a thrash bassist, including someone as talented as Burton, so I don't miss him as much as others. Length is long, but it's Metallica jamming, so no prob with that either. Finally, it's got their best power ballad ever, so far a thrash record, it's plenty diverse.

But... Fade to Black is on Ride the Lightning :shycouch:

Haha, good point!

I Beg To Differ, sir. Solely for the reason of exquisite classical guitar playing segueing into pounding thrash chords. Fade to Black is now slouch either though. :beer:

...but what are you saying is their best ballad?

But, again... Fight Fire With Fire is on Ride the Lightning :p:

I'd actually say that description is closer to Battery than FFwF. Which is on MoP.