Metallica’s new album hailed as a fresh start by Lars Ulrich – Far Out Magazine

Metallica, undoubtedly one of the most significant metal bands of all time, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Their immense success and influence have solidified their place as one of the best-selling bands across all genres, having sold over 175 million records worldwide and consistently topping heavy rock charts with each of the six albums released between 1991 and 2016.

However, behind the scenes, Metallica faced a significant challenge that almost led to the demise of the band in the early 2000s. As they embarked on recording their eighth album, “St. Anger,” in 2003, the band was in turmoil. Reeling from mixed reactions to their previous album, “Reload,” and dealing with the departure of longtime bassist Jason Newsted, Metallica was also confronted with frontman James Hetfield’s personal struggles that saw him seeking rehabilitation. The uncertainty surrounding Hetfield’s return to music left the band hanging in the balance.

Amidst these challenges, drummer Lars Ulrich and guitarist Kirk Hammett took the reins to hold the band together and enlisted bassist and producer Rob Rock to collaborate on the upcoming album. When Hetfield eventually made his comeback, the band was rejuvenated and ready to create music with a fresh perspective and sound. Ulrich described the experience as a new beginning for Metallica, attributing the revitalized energy to Rock’s presence within the group.

The resulting album, “St. Anger,” showcased a raw intensity and aggression that reflected the band’s renewed sense of unity and purpose. Fueled by a sense of brotherhood and camaraderie, Metallica channeled their collective energy into creating music that spoke to their defiance and resilience. Despite the album’s ferocious sound and themes of anger, Hetfield emphasized that anger, when channeled constructively, can be a powerful tool for expression and solidarity within the band.

Through their tumultuous journey during the early 2000s, Metallica emerged stronger and more connected than ever. The challenges they faced served as a catalyst for their artistic evolution and collaborative spirit, propelling them to create music that resonated deeply with fans and critics alike. Ultimately, “St. Anger” symbolized a rebirth for Metallica, showcasing their ability to overcome adversity and reaffirming their status as one of the most iconic and enduring bands in music history.