What is the best Metallica album of all time?

From the raw thrash fury of Kill 'Em All to the arena-filling stadium rock of the Black Album, Metallica have spent four decades as heavy metal's biggest band. Their evolution — controversial as it has been — has produced some of metal's most iconic records. Cast your vote for their greatest.

1

Master of Puppets

The 1986 thrash metal masterpiece featuring complex compositions and political themes.

2

Ride the Lightning

The 1984 album showcasing the band's growing ambition with thrash and melody.

3

...And Justice for All

The 1988 politically charged album known for its complex songwriting and dry bass sound.

4

Metallica (Black Album)

The 1991 self-titled album that catapulted them to global superstardom.

5

Kill 'Em All

The 1983 debut that defined thrash metal and introduced the genre to the mainstream.

6

Death Magnetic

The 2008 comeback album returning to their thrash roots after years away.

7

Load

The 1996 rock-influenced album signaling a bold stylistic evolution.

8

Hardwired... to Self-Destruct

The 2016 double album delivering relentless thrash energy in their later career.

9

ReLoad

The 1997 companion to Load, continuing their experimental rock journey.

10

St. Anger

The divisive 2003 album featuring raw aggression and the infamous snare drum sound.

11

72 Seasons

The 2023 album exploring themes of childhood and identity with renewed heavy energy.