The "Cliff" Years
Formation of the Band
Metallica was formed in 1981 in Los Angeles, California by drummer Lars Ulrich and guitarist and vocalist James Hetfield. The two met through a classified advertisement that Ulrich placed in a local newspaper, looking for musicians to start a band.
Early Years
Metallica initially played in local clubs and venues, but quickly gained a reputation as one of the most intense and powerful bands on the local metal scene. They released their first demo tape in 1982, which helped them secure a record deal with the independent label Megaforce Records.
Kill 'Em All
In 1983, Metallica released their debut album, "Kill 'Em All", which was produced by Paul Curcio and recorded at Music America Studios in Rochester, New York. The album featured a raw, aggressive sound that set it apart from the more polished and commercial heavy metal of the time. It received positive reviews from critics and helped establish Metallica as one of the leading bands in the thrash metal genre.
Ride the Lightning
In 1984, Metallica released their second album, "Ride the Lightning". The album was produced by Flemming Rasmussen and recorded at Sweet Silence Studios in Denmark. It featured a more polished and mature sound than "Kill 'Em All", and included a mix of fast, heavy tracks and slower, more melodic songs. The album received critical acclaim and helped establish Metallica as a major force in the heavy metal world.
Master of Puppets
The album "Master of Puppets" was released in 1986, and it was a turning point for Metallica. It was the band's first album to be certified gold and it established Metallica as one of the leading bands in the thrash metal genre. The album featured hit songs such as the title track, "Master of Puppets" and "Welcome Home (Sanitarium)." The album's lyrics dealt with darker and more personal themes, such as addiction, and it was well received by critics and fans alike. Jason Newsted was not yet part of the band during the recording of this album, but he joined them for the tour that followed, which was also a huge success. "Master of Puppets" was considered a masterpiece, and it is still considered one of the greatest heavy metal albums of all time. It was their first commercial success and also their last album to feature bassist Cliff Burton, who died in a bus accident while touring in support of the album.
Metallica History
