Metallica a lot of times gets a lot of flack from it's hardcore fans, not realizing (or refuse to awknowledge) that they have matured and evolved in all senses. Musically, personally, mentally, professionally, spiritually, etc.Personally, I think they have braved the storm of complaints. I don't think that really means that they lost an edge, they just adapted to their musicianship and personal evolution. For me to be true musician, you have to go out there and experiment, not just fall in to a comfort zone (like Slayer to me)and test other waters. I do realize that they have put albums in the past that don't really display their potential. Ever since they (Metallica) began, they have pride themselves of being honest to theirselves, by pleasing theirselves first, so that policy hasn't really changed. This first song they released from their upcoming album, at first to me it sounded like Sacred Reich, Anthrax, Nuclear Assault and other old school thrash bands. Very thrashy sound. Even though the song is short, it is very straight up front. I very much look forward to the album, and the tour that will follow. For those metal and rock fans who haven't heard it, below is the song. I hope you all enjoy.
