Ask any Metallica fan what their least favourite album is from the metal titans and you will inevitably get the same answer. “St Anger,” which dropped in mid-2003, has not earned the same favour as any of their other releases. Likewise, critics have often offered low reviews, and few have had good things to say about it.

While it needs to be said that some fans did love this album, in terms of complexity, song structure, overall sound and technical quality, objectively, it is the least impressive offering from them to date, overall. 

But this is Metallica. Musically gifted, genuinely passionate about their craft and holding decades of experience under their belts. Even their least popular album is bound to have precious gold within it. And they have proven that by a mile with the acoustic release of one “St Anger” track, “All Within My Hands.”

“All Within My Hands” has always been one of the least hated tracks on “St Anger,” and with good reason. It demonstrates a much greater level of depth and technicality than the rest of the package. The lyrics are far more poetically emotive than the overt expressions of rage and frustration one hears on the rest of the album. 

Now, Metallica have thrilled fans by releasing an acoustic version of the track, a teaser, for the upcoming “S&M2” due to land in August. In doing so, they have not only paid incredible homage to one of their most brilliant songs, they have also breathed new life into the number. Truly, this has to be heard to be believed. 

Also releasing an acoustic version of their iconic smash hit ballad, “Nothing Else Matters,” Metallica are sending fans into a frenzy as we are slowly learning just how incredible “S&M2” is going to be. The release has been highly anticipated ever since their first symphonic foray, “S&M” way back in 2000. 

“S&M2” will see multiple release formats, with the coveted Deluxe Box Set said to include four coloured vinyl LPs, sheet music, guitar picks, as well as CDs and a Blu-ray. August 28, 2020 is the official release date, and fans are counting down.  

 metal 

Author: Harley Houghton

Harley Houghton is a writer and blogger, based in Melbourne, Australia. Her passions include music, especially metal, gaming and comics. Check out her blog www.harleysmadhouse.com and follow her on Twitter.