What makes Creeping Death by Metallica notable?

'Creeping Death' is significant for its impact on the metal genre, particularly for its popularity in live performances, becoming a staple in their setlist. The EP also features a cover of 'Am I Evil?' which has been influential in cementing Metallica's reputation as a key player in heavy metal history. Released as Metallica's third EP, 'Creeping Death' followed their breakthrough album 'Ride the Lightning' and solidified their status in the thrash metal scene. By this time, they had already begun to shape their sound, incorporating complex arrangements and darker themes.

How many songs are on Creeping Death?

Creeping Death has 3 tracks, running approximately 17 minutes.

Creeping Death

Metallica · 1984

17 min · 3 tracks · heavy metal

A relentless barrage of aggressive riffs and thunderous drums that captures the raw energy of thrash metal's rise.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Creeping Death — The title track features a powerful narrative about the biblical plagues, combining intricate guitar work with anthemic choruses that exemplify Metallica's thematic depth and musical prowess.
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Am I Evil? — This cover showcases Metallica's ability to reinterpret classic tracks, adding their signature speed and aggression while contributing to their legacy within the heavy metal community.
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Blitzkrieg — The frenetic pace and sharp lyrics of this cover highlight the band's early influence from British heavy metal, blending it seamlessly into their own aggressive style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

70 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong songwriting and performance, solidifying Metallica's place in thrash metal.

What we noticed

The title track features a shifting tempo, alternating between fast-paced sections and slower, more deliberate passages that build tension.

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

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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: Breakthrough — It solidified Metallica's reputation in the thrash metal scene post 'Ride the Lightning'.
Themes: biblical plagues· oppression and liberation· military blitzkrieg
Career context: Released as Metallica's third EP, 'Creeping Death' followed their breakthrough album 'Ride the Lightning' and solidified their status in the thrash metal scene. By this time, they had already begun to shape their sound, incorporating complex arrangements and darker themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Megadeth· Slayer· Anthrax