Hardwired... to Self-Destruct

The album was the first full studio album released on Blackened Recordings, the band's own record label. Having gained full ownership of their master recordings, this release marked a new era of total independence and creative control for the band.

The album's lead single, "Hardwired", sets the tone for the record with its aggressive tempo and lyrics that comment on humanity's self-destructive tendencies. It was the last song written for the album, yet it perfectly encapsulates the themes of frustration and disillusionment that run throughout the record.

"Hardwired... to Self-Destruct" was self-produced by Metallica, with James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich taking the helm alongside Greg Fidelman. This approach resulted in a sound that is both raw and polished, encapsulating the essence of Metallica's identity.

"Hardwired... to Self-Destruct" is notable for its exploration of diverse themes, from existential dread in "Now That We're Dead" to the critique of celebrity culture in "Moth Into Flame". This thematic diversity reflects the band's growth and willingness to engage with complex issues.

The album received critical acclaim for its musicianship and was seen as a return to form for Metallica, reminiscent of their 1980s heyday but with a contemporary twist. It debuted at No. 1 in several countries, proving the band's enduring appeal across generations of metal fans.

Kirk Hammett does not have any writing credits on this album, a rarity for him. This was due to a mishap where he lost his iPhone containing hundreds of recorded riff ideas at an airport. He had not backed up the device, forcing him to start from scratch when writing sessions began.

The song "Murder One" is a heartfelt tribute to Lemmy Kilmister, the legendary frontman of Motörhead and a close friend of the band. The lyrics are composed almost entirely of Motörhead song titles, honoring the man who was a massive influence on Metallica's sound.