What makes Cyanide by Metallica notable?

'Cyanide' was a significant track that contributed to 'Death Magnetic' reaching number one on the Billboard 200 chart and showcased Metallica's enduring influence within the heavy metal genre. The album received critical acclaim for its return to form and was nominated for Grammy Awards, reinforcing the band's status in metal history. Released on September 2, 2008, 'Cyanide' appears on Metallica's ninth studio album, 'Death Magnetic,' marking their return to a heavier sound after a period of commercial experimentation. This album came after the polarizing reception of their previous work, 'St. Anger' (2003) and was pivotal in re-establishing their thrash metal roots.

How many songs are on Cyanide?

Cyanide has 1 track, running approximately 6 minutes.

Cyanide

Metallica · 2008

6 min · 1 track · heavy metal

A relentless thrash onslaught blending crushing riffs with haunting melodies, embodying Metallica's signature intensity.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Cyanide — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of decay and despair through aggressive instrumentation and complex lyrical imagery, making it a standout representation of Metallica’s sonic evolution.

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

Cyanide showcases strong composition and craft but is limited by its single format and context within the album.

What we noticed

The track features a consistent tempo throughout, with aggressive guitar riffs layered over dynamic drum patterns.
The song structure includes multiple sections that shift between heavy verses and melodic choruses, creating a contrast in intensity.
There is a prominent use of harmonized guitar lines that add depth to the overall sound, particularly in the bridge.

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: Breakthrough — Significant track contributing to 'Death Magnetic's' success, marking a return to heavy sound.
Themes: despair and addiction· thrash metal resurgence
Career context: Released on September 2, 2008, 'Cyanide' appears on Metallica's ninth studio album, 'Death Magnetic,' marking their return to a heavier sound after a period of commercial experimentation. This album came after the polarizing reception of their previous work, 'St. Anger' (2003) and was pivotal in re-establishing their thrash metal roots.
Stylistic neighbors: Megadeth· Slayer· Anthrax