About this album
Where they were
Released on August 25, 1988, ...And Justice for All marked Metallica's fourth studio album and their first without bassist Cliff Burton, who tragically died in 1986. The band was transitioning from their underground roots to mainstream success, further solidifying their status in the heavy metal scene following the breakthrough of their previous album, Master of Puppets.
Why it matters
...And Justice for All is notable for its complex song structures and socio-political themes, establishing a template for future progressive metal. The single 'One' notably reached the Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance.
Essential tracks
- "One" — 'One' stands out due to its haunting narrative about the horrors of war, showcasing both lyrical depth and intricate musical composition.
- "Blackened" — The opening track 'Blackened' features aggressive riffs and powerful vocals, setting an intense tone that encapsulates the album's themes of despair and justice.
- "...And Justice for All" — The title track exemplifies the album's critique of societal issues through dynamic changes and lyrical complexity, representing Metallica's bold artistic evolution.
- "Dyers Eve" — 'Dyers Eve' closes the album with raw emotional intensity, reflecting personal turmoil and disillusionment, making it a fitting conclusion to this heavy exploration.
Release Date
August 25, 1988
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Blackened 6:40
- 2 …And Justice for All 9:44
- 3 Eye of the Beholder 6:25
- 4 One 7:24
- 5 The Shortest Straw 6:35
- 6 Harvester of Sorrow 5:42
- 7 The Frayed Ends of Sanity 7:40
- 8 To Live Is to Die 9:48
- 9 Dyers Eve 5:12