| Biography
Metallica was formed by Lars and James in the
early 80's. Lars came up with the name of the
band. To get bass-wizard Cliff Burton to join
Metallica they had to relocate to San Fransisco.
Beside James, Lars and Cliff the line-up
featured Dave Mustaine, a talented lead-guitarist
that could deliver in-the-face street-style solos.
Dave's affection for drugs soon made it
impossible to keep him in the band and prior
to the recording of Metallica's first album
he was replaced by Kirk Hammet.
The first two albums Kill 'em all and Ride
the
lightning defined the style thrash metal. The
third album Master of puppets featured a
band that with broader horizons. The energy
was still there and in addition the songs had
very complex arrangements, something James
has credited Cliff for. Following the release of
Master of puppets Metallica was touring Europe
when disaster struck the band. Cliff was killed
when their tour-bus slid off an icy Swedish road.
Cliff's death did not stop the band and Jason
Newstead was picked as his replacement.
Despite not playing in the same style as Cliff
Jason proved to perfect for the job. His playing
was first heard on ...and justice for all, an
album of some fine songs but poor production
and sometimes too complex riffing.
Metallica's next two albums have once again
redefined heavy metal. Their "Black album"
was still vintage Metallica but producer Bob
Rock did a good job sharpening the sounds,
which is a main reason for the popularity of
that album. Load, from last year is a
giant leap away from their earlier work and
to put a label on it is virtually impossible.
The group recorded at the same time as Load,
a bunch of other tunes. They continued recording
and adjusting these songs after they had finished
their world tour in 1997. The record, Reload
is much sharper and faster than Load and featuring
a total new view of heavy metal, with hurdy-gurdy
and singer Marianne Faithful (most famous
forher relationship with Mick Jagger in the late 60's).
As with Load, to label this album would not be
possible, but I guess the only correct label on it
would be Metallica! |
