Metallica always tried to experiment, find new forms, shapes, whatever you call it. Some might say that they lost themselves by doing that, but in my opinion they were so good at losing themselves that it worked to their advantage. From ultimate headbangers like Creeping Death to my all-time favorite Bleeding Me — they always had something to offer to everyone.
Even St.Anger, I don't think it was good or bad. It was just different, and I still come back to it sometimes…and open snare doesn't bother me that much anymore xD.
I'd be equally glad to see them coming up with something crazy like a Lamb of God kind of album (riff-wise), or going in the complete opposite direction, having a collab with John Mayer, you choose name. Or making some country music, boy that'd be awesome. I'm in as long as it hits differently.
But this album has nothing to offer. Nothing at all. Neither for 'teenage metalhead' in me, nor for me running through Johnny Cash albums.
Repetitive and bland. Love Metallica but seems they just really got tired of all of it.