What makes Beyond Magnetic by Metallica notable?

Beyond Magnetic debuted at number 16 on the Billboard 200, marking significant commercial success for an EP. It was well-received by fans and critics alike, praised for its return to the band's heavier roots and its exploration of themes like struggle and perseverance, thus reinforcing Metallica's prominence in heavy metal music. Released in 2011, Beyond Magnetic serves as an EP containing previously unreleased tracks from the recording sessions of Death Magnetic. Following their successful comeback album, it showcases Metallica's continued evolution while honoring their classic sound. The release came during a period when the band was celebrating their legacy and engaging with their fanbase through new material.

How many songs are on Beyond Magnetic?

Beyond Magnetic has 4 tracks, running approximately 29 minutes.

Beyond Magnetic

Metallica · 2011

29 min · 4 tracks · heavy metal

A raw, aggressive collection of tracks that channels Metallica's thrash roots with intense riffs and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hate Train — The track opens with a blistering riff that encapsulates the album’s aggressive tone, while its lyrics explore themes of anger and frustration in a personal context.
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Just a Bullet Away — This song features dynamic shifts between haunting melodies and explosive instrumentation, reflecting the internal conflict within its narrative, making it a standout piece.
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Rebel of Babylon — With its epic length and intricate arrangements, this track tells a profound story of defiance and resilience, showcasing Metallica's lyrical depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong songwriting and performance but lacks the cohesion of a full album.

What we noticed

Each track features aggressive guitar riffs and rapid drumming, maintaining a consistent high energy throughout.
The EP's four tracks are all over six minutes long, allowing for extended instrumental sections and complex arrangements.
Vocals are delivered with a raw intensity, often layered with harmonies that emphasize the lyrical themes of struggle and defiance.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Solid entry that revisits thrash roots but isn't essential for new listeners.
Themes: internal conflict· societal rebellion· thrash metal intensity
Career context: Released in 2011, Beyond Magnetic serves as an EP containing previously unreleased tracks from the recording sessions of Death Magnetic. Following their successful comeback album, it showcases Metallica's continued evolution while honoring their classic sound. The release came during a period when the band was celebrating their legacy and engaging with their fanbase through new material.
Stylistic neighbors: Megadeth· Slayer· Anthrax