Which Metallica Album Should a 15-Year-Old Start With?

Choosing where to begin with Metallica can be intimidating, especially if you're a newcomer to the world of thrash metal. In this guide, we'll explore which albums are most suitable for a 15-year-old looking to dive into the iconic band's music. Let's begin with the recommended entry point and work our way through the band's acclaimed discography.

Starting Point: The Black Album

Any of them other than the Lulu album. Lol. For a starting point, your best bet would be the The Black Album (1991). Released in the early 1990s, this was Metallica's entry into the mainstream, marked by accessible and radio-friendly tracks that have received considerable airplay and remain popular even today.

Some specific songs to check out include:

H Pitbull Enter Sandman My Messiah

These songs are part of a playlist that still resonates with fans and new listeners alike. The The Black Album embodies a more accessible yet still hard rock sound, making it a great starting point for those curious about Metallica's music.

Transitioning to Thrash Metal: Master of Puppets

For a deeper dive into the thrash metal sound, consider starting with Master of Puppets (1986). While it may not be my absolute favorite, this album is undoubtedly one of their best. Master of Puppets is a masterpiece that captures the essence of what Metallica was all about. Let's break down some of its standout tracks:

Damage Done Disposable Heroes Damage, Inc.

This album is not just a listen; it's a study in thrash metal. The songs are aggressive, intricate, and showcase the band's technical proficiency, setting the stage for the rest of their career.

Progressive to Modern: Hardwired to Self-Destruct and Beyond

Once you're comfortable with the harder, thrashier sound of Master of Puppets, you can explore their more recent work. Hardwired to Self-Destruct (2017) is a great place to start, though I should note that it might be a bit more challenging than the The Black Album. It's a double album featuring a mix of singles and tracks that are accessible while still maintaining the metal ethos.

For fans of the radio-friendly tracks in The Black Album, you can also explore Load and Reload (both released in 1996), which offer a middle ground of more commercially friendly metal. However, if you're looking for a deeper exploration, these albums still hold significant musical value.

Regardless of which album you choose to start with, it's important to hear Kill ' Em All (1983). This album is not only a requirement for any Metallica fan but also a definitive representative of the thrash genre. It helps form the foundation of what Metallica is known for. Some standout tracks include:

Phantom Lord For Whom the Bell Tolls Faster

It's followed by Ride the Lightning (1984), which is one of my personal favorites. Songs like Dead Filth and Bellzilla showcase the band's technical prowess and lyrical depth. This album is a must-listen for anyone interested in their early work.

Then we have Master of Puppets (1986) as your next step, followed by the more progressive and technical masterpiece And Justice for All (1988). Both of these albums stand as classic releases that reflect the band's evolution and progressiveness within the metal genre.

Sneak Peek: Garage Days and Beyond

For those who want a taste of Metallica's live recordings and collaborations, you might enjoy the live concert album Gear (2007) and their collaboration with the San Francisco Symphony, Metallica S M: Live at the Symphonic Auditorium (2008). Additionally, the Metallica live album (1983) and Loose (2000) are also worth checking out if you're a fan of live recordings.

Regarding the albums that I would avoid, Lulu (2017) is definitely a collaboration that I can live without. While it received mixed reviews, it may not be the best representation of Metallica's core sound. Similarly, St. Anger (2003) and Death Magnetic (2008) are more polarizing and divisive among fans, with fans disagreeing on their quality.

In conclusion, if you're a 15-year-old looking to start listening to Metallica, begin with The Black Album. From there, move on to the Master of Puppets for a deeper understanding of thrash metal, then explore their newer work like Hardwired to Self-Destruct. No matter which album you choose, you're in for a memorable journey through one of the greatest metal bands of all time. Enjoy the music!