Are you a die-hard Metallica fan seeking the best vinyl records to add to your collection? With their distinctive sound and powerful lyrics, Metallica has been one of the most influential bands in the heavy metal genre for over four decades. Since their groundbreaking record “Master of Puppets” in 1986, the band has released numerous albums that have garnered a massive following and loyal fanbase. In this article, we will dive into the best Metallica vinyl records albums to buy, complete with their full discography, and where you can find these highly sought-after albums. From the thrashing riffs in “…And Justice for All” to the melodic harmonies of “S&M”, we’ve got your Metallica cravings covered! Did you know that Metallica is one of the few bands to have played on all seven continents, including the unprecedented gig in Antarctica in 2013? Allow us to guide you through your exciting vinyl journey, with a band that never ceases to amaze.
The Greatest Metallica Vinyl Records for Sale
Kill ‘Em All (1983)
First Released in 1983
Metallica’s debut album “Kill ‘Em All” showcases the band’s energetic thrash metal roots, featuring classics like “Seek & Destroy” and “Whiplash.” This groundbreaking album set the stage for their illustrious career and is a must-have for any metal and vinyl enthusiast.
Ride the Lightning (1984)
Released in 1984
“Ride the Lightning” is Metallica’s second studio album, featuring fan favorites such as “For Whom the Bell Tolls” and “Fade to Black.” The album marked the band’s progression towards more sophisticated songwriting and a refined sound, making it a seminal work within the metal genre.
Master of Puppets (1986)
Released in 1986
Widely regarded as one of the greatest heavy metal albums of all time, “Master of Puppets” includes iconic tracks like “Battery,” “Welcome Home (Sanitarium),” and the epic title track. This monumental album solidified Metallica’s place as a dominant force in the metal world.
…And Justice for All (1988)
Released in 1988
Featuring the legendary “One” and “Harvester of Sorrow,” “…And Justice for All” is a powerful exploration of themes such as corruption and inequality. The album’s complex, progressive song structures and provocative lyrics further expanded Metallica’s influence within the world of heavy metal.
Metallica (The Black Album) (1991)
Released in 1991
Simply known as “The Black Album”, Metallica’s eponymous fifth studio album marked a departure from their thrash metal origins while still featuring heavy tracks like “Enter Sandman” and “Sad but True.” “The Black Album” remains Metallica’s most commercially successful release to date, and its timeless sound continues to resonate with fans of all ages.
Load (1996)
Released in 1996
“Load” further showcased Metallica’s evolving sound, with tracks like “Until It Sleeps” and “King Nothing.” The album’s experimental approach in incorporating blues and hard rock elements divided fans, but has since gained appreciation as a significant part of Metallica’s discography.
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Reload (1997)
Released in 1997
A companion piece to “Load,” “Reload” features songs like “The Memory Remains” and “Fuel.” Although it continues the band’s departure from their thrash roots, “Reload” maintains the band’s signature intensity and remains an important part of Metallica’s catalog.
Garage Inc. (1998)
Released in 1998
“Garage Inc.” is a two-disc compilation album featuring covers of iconic bands that influenced Metallica, including Black Sabbath, Misfits, and Thin Lizzy. The album not only pays tribute to music legends but also highlights Metallica’s unique interpretation of these classic songs.
S&M (1999)
Released in 1999
“S&M” captures Metallica’s groundbreaking live collaboration with the San Francisco Symphony. This unprecedented combination of metal and classical music showcases a new dimension of the band’s sound and includes powerful renditions of their hits, as well as the stunning original composition “No Leaf Clover.”
St. Anger (2003)
Released in 2003
“St. Anger” finds Metallica exploring a raw, aggressive sound on tracks like “Frantic” and “Some Kind of Monster.” Though the album initially received mixed reviews, it remains an interesting chapter in the band’s history, offering fans an unbridled expression of Metallica’s intensity.
Death Magnetic (2008)
Released in 2008
“Death Magnetic” marked a return to Metallica’s faster, thrashier roots with tracks like “The Day That Never Comes” and “All Nightmare Long.” The album was praised for its return to the band’s classic sound, further cementing their status as metal icons.
Lulu (with Lou Reed) (2011)
Released in 2011
“Lulu” is an experimental collaboration between Metallica and the late Lou Reed. The record blends Reed’s poetic spoken-word style with the heavy instrumentation of Metallica, creating an artistic fusion that showcases the versatility of both artists.
Hardwired… to Self-Destruct (2016)
Released in 2016
“Hardwired… to Self-Destruct” features a balance of Metallica’s classic thrash and contemporary influences with songs like “Moth Into Flame” and “Spit Out the Bone.” As their tenth studio album, it displays the band’s ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of heavy metal.
S&M2 (2020)
Released in 2020
“S&M2” marks the return of Metallica’s collaboration with the San Francisco Symphony, 20 years after the original “S&M” concert. The performance includes new symphonic arrangements of their classic songs, as well as the debut of original compositions like “Anesthetize.” This album further demonstrates Metallica’s ability to innovate and merge genres, solidifying their reputation as one of the most iconic and influential bands in music history.
Full Metallica Discography
- Kill ‘Em All (1983)
- Ride the Lightning (1984)
- Master of Puppets (1986)
- …And Justice for All (1988)
- Metallica (The Black Album) (1991)
- Load (1996)
- Reload (1997)
- Garage Inc. (1998)
- S&M (1999)
- St. Anger (2003)
- Death Magnetic (2008)
- Lulu (with Lou Reed) (2011)
- Hardwired… to Self-Destruct (2016)
- S&M2 (2020)
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