Here’s a detailed feature on the song list from Metallica’s debut album, Kill ‘Em All (released July 25, 1983). Before Kill ‘Em All , heavy metal was largely defined by the theatrical swagger of Judas Priest, the dark fantasy of Black Sabbath, and the mainstream hooks of Iron Maiden. Then four young musicians from Los Angeles—James Hetfield (vocals/rhythm guitar), Lars Ulrich (drums), Dave Mustaine (lead guitar, soon replaced by Kirk Hammett), and Ron McGovney (bass, replaced by Cliff Burton)—decided to strip away every ounce of polish and replace it with speed, aggression, and raw, unfiltered energy.
Here’s a detailed feature on the song list from Metallica’s debut album, Kill ‘Em All (released July 25, 1983). Before Kill ‘Em All , heavy metal was largely defined by the theatrical swagger of Judas Priest, the dark fantasy of Black Sabbath, and the mainstream hooks of Iron Maiden. Then four young musicians from Los Angeles—James Hetfield (vocals/rhythm guitar), Lars Ulrich (drums), Dave Mustaine (lead guitar, soon replaced by Kirk Hammett), and Ron McGovney (bass, replaced by Cliff Burton)—decided to strip away every ounce of polish and replace it with speed, aggression, and raw, unfiltered energy.