It’s fair for me to say that I am not the biggest fan of hard rock or heavy metal. I’d rather be listening to mellow tunes or songs with some pop or punch to them. However, ‘Ride The Lightning’ has increased my musical knowledge and provided me with a definite impression of the band that made heavy metal popular.
As far as heavy metal goes (and my limited listening privileges of the genre), Metallica’s 2nd album proves that power and energy go a long way in music. There are eight solid tracks, each clocking in at 4 minutes or more. That stat alone is spectacular because it truly is a testament to a musical act’s consistent quality of music. It’s clear as day; Hetfield and company certainly strive for endurance and excellence in their song writing. There are two standout songs on this album: Ride The Lightning and Fade To Black, not considering the instrumental, The Call of Ktulu (now that’s some crazy guitar). Without a doubt, those two songs really capture Metallica’s musical power with electric results and also shine a light on the dark yet honest lyrics. Although these words are often shouted and yelled, it’s fitting because, otherwise, there would be something lacking with these metal kings.
A few more notes of interest about my first taste of Metallica are necessary in order to fully explain my feelings towards the music. The guitar riffs of Escape rocks the mad note; Lars Ulrich is one hell of a strong drummer; some of these songs sound like the soundtrack to an early 90’s fighting or race car game (that is not a putdown, it’s pretty cool). For heavy metal, it’s the beginning of an era. And, for my own ear, there’s not so much distortion that you miss out on the melodies of the Metallica crew. So I think it’s good, yeah I said it. Now, this review must fade to black…
By: Cousy
