Hardwired… to Self-Destruct cover

Released 10 years ago

Hardwired… to Self-Destruct

Metallica · 2016

77 min · 12 tracks · heavy metal · thrash metal

Heavy riffs and aggressive rhythms collide with introspective lyrics, capturing Metallica's enduring power and evolution.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic range with emotional peaks
  • wave-like pacing for engagement
  • introspective themes amidst aggression
  • cathartic release through heavy riffs

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • dislike lengthy, evolving pieces

Where this album fits

Themes
fame's toxic allure· digital age disillusionment· thrash metal revival
Career context
Released on November 18, 2016, 'Hardwired… to Self-Destruct' marked Metallica's first studio album in eight years, following the lukewarm reception of 'Death Magnetic.' This album represented a return to their thrash roots while also incorporating elements of their later sound, showcasing the band's resilience and adaptability in a changing musical landscape.
Stylistic neighbors
Megadeth· Slayer· Anthrax
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Dystopia by Megadeth — Shares aggressive riffs and themes of societal decay, echoing disillusionment in a modern context.
Repentless by Slayer — Maintains the same thrash intensity and dark lyrical themes, emphasizing aggression and personal struggle.
Vulgar Display of Power by Pantera — Delivers heavy riffs and a raw emotional punch, resonating with themes of power and inner turmoil.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Hardwired 3:09
  • 2 Atlas, Rise! 6:28
  • 3 Now That We’re Dead 6:59
  • 4 Moth Into Flame 5:50
  • 5 Dream No More 6:29
  • 6 Halo on Fire 8:15

Disc 2

  • 1 Confusion 6:41
  • 2 ManUNkind 6:55
  • 3 Here Comes Revenge 7:17
  • 4 Am I Savage? 6:29
  • 5 Murder One 5:45
  • 6 Spit Out the Bone 7:09

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata