Metallica, St. Anger Review

Good Points
This is a Metallica album, and whilst not living up to previous achievements is better than the average album out there. Contains plenty of material for hardcore fans and two good songs (St. Anger and Frantic).

Bad Points
The album has no distinctive sound. Metallica have comprimised their musical quality for speed and heavyness. The songs all sound the same and only two songs are decent. Is a chore to listen to this album, only done through loyalty to Metallica. Very poor production and James's deteriorating vocals. No solos.

General Comments
Metallica made this album out of desperation. They were in a vulnerable state after losing Jason Newsted, James's rehabilitation and the legal battle with Napster. People were beginning to question them, and confused, they attempted to release an album to convince themselves as much as the fans. The only problem is that a great album cannot be released when the band is in such a state. This is reflected in the songs. Many of them have an unfinished and raw sound. The lyrics are terrible showing a lack of planning and time. The remarkable solos have also disappeared. When listening to this album one gets the impression that Metallica were desperate to release anything to reverse the growing problems the band was experiencing. Unfortunately this album only contributed more to their misfortune.