Kenneth Barry

So I sat down with my coffee this morning and decided to listen to Metallica’s new album “72 Seasons”. As a die-hard Metallica fan, I have listened to and enjoy every one of their albums in different ways. They all (even the early ones) have had their high and low points. I can say though that this one is my favorite album they have released in the Trujillo era. While I love “Death Magnetic” and “Hardwired” for different reasons, I can honestly say “72 Seasons” hits harder-like a sledgehammer to the guts-than any other Metallica album in the modern era. The reason? Quite simply James Hetfield. He sings with a world weariness only exhibited from a man that has been through the wringer of addiction, rehab, and the horror of divorce. And these life-changing events both influence and shine though in his raspy, thought-provoking vocals. And the rest of the band shows their earned virtuosity. Lars does some of the best work of his career, Kirk has some of his most technical and expressive solos to date, and Rob not only provides a solid base for his band mates to work on, but also does a rare turn on the mike. All in all, in my opinion one of the best Metallica albums so far and definitely the best of the Trujillo era. It shows that, no matter how old these guys are, they are still one of the most powerful bands in rock/metal and have set the benchmark for others to follow.