The classic lineup of Metallica—frontman/guitarist James Hetfield, guitarist Kirk Hammett, bassist Cliff Burton, and drummer Lars Ulrich—unleashed a trio of albums that are bona fide classics in the heavy metal universe. The classically trained Burton understood music theory and helped quickly propel their music to new heights. They strongly stood out from most of their American contemporaries on this first trilogy of releases. Burton left us far too young in a terrible tour bus accident at the age of 24, but he left his indelible mark on the music world.
Here are six deep cuts from that revered era of Metallica that deserve more love and appreciation.
“Jump in the Fire” from Kill ‘Em All (1983)
The band’s debut whips up thrashing cuts like “Hit the Lights” and “Metal Militia,” but this mid-tempo rocker stands out for its ominous vibes, killer Kirk Hammett guitar solo, and solid groove. This was one of the songs co-written by original member Dave Mustaine before he formed and fronted Megadeth. “Jump in the Fire” hasn’t been played live in many years but should be resurrected in their set list.
“No Remorse” from Kill ‘Em All (1983)
Another mid-tempo track from their debut, “No Remorse” is just as intense with wailing guitar solos, crunching riffs, and persistent energy. Like Slayer, Metallica gleaned that changing up the riffs and tempos kept their tunes engaging, even when they fell on the more epic side. Burton’s fluid bass work underlines the whole track. Working within low-budget confines, veteran producer Paul Curcio gave this album a potent sound.
“Escape” from Ride the Lightning (1984)
When Metallica’s sophomore album came out, there was a little debate as to whether the catchy chorus to this manifesto of independence was a harbinger of commercial things to come, even despite the heaviness dominating it. If those concerned fans had been swiftly transported 12 years ahead to Load and the group’s short hair era, they would have short-circuited. “Escape” certainly stands out in the early days for its more overt melodiousness.
Rape my mind and destroy my feelings
Don’t tell me what to do
I don’t care now, ’cause I’m on my side
And I can see through you
Feed my brain with your so called standards
Who says that I ain’t right
Break away from your common fashion
See through your blurry sight
“The Call of Ktulu” from Ride the Lightning (1984)
“Orion” from Master of Puppets is the most well-known instrumental from the Cliff Burton era, but this track, a riff-tastic sonic tapestry with a Lovecraft-inspired title, takes us on an epic metal journey. Co-written with Burton and Mustaine, “Ktulu” doesn’t exhibit the same refinement as “Orion,” but it’s an engaging listen with the band in supersonic instrumental mode. For the group’s live S&M album in 1999, this is the instrumental they picked to fully flesh out with an orchestra. It was a striking makeover.
“Disposable Heroes” from Master of Puppets (1986)
I was born for dying! This aggressive anti-war track shifts tempos and doesn’t let up for its more than eight-minute running time. The verses represent the point-of-view of a young soldier buried deep in the trenches of war, juxtaposed by choruses from the uncaring, manipulative commander using his men for his brutal objectives. Heavy subjects like war and potential nuclear annihilation (as with “Fight Fire on Fire” on Metallica’s previous album) often achieve maximum impact when powered by muscular metal like this.
“Damage Inc.” from Master of Puppets (1986)
Don’t let the ethereal guitar washes gliding through the intro fool you. “Damage Inc.” turns into a raging thrasher that challenges the idea of keeping your head down and following the pack. It’s not always an easy thing to do, and there can be repercussions. Remember, don’t f–k with razorback.
Dealing out the agony within
Charging hard and no one’s gonna give in
Living on your knees, conformity
Or dying on your feet for honesty
Inbred, our bodies work as one
Bloody, but never cry submission
Following our instinct not a trend
Go against the grain until the end
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