What makes Moth into Flame by Metallica notable?

The song achieved significant commercial success, debuting at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving critical acclaim for its intricate composition. It also became a staple in Metallica's live performances, showcasing the band's ability to blend classic heavy metal with modern influences. Released as part of Metallica's tenth studio album, 'Moth into Flame' followed their previous record 'Hardwired... to Self-Destruct', marking a return to form for the band. At this point in their career, Metallica was re-engaging with their thrash metal roots while also embracing contemporary production techniques.

How many songs are on Moth into Flame?

Moth into Flame has 1 track, running approximately 5 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Moth into Flame

Metallica · 2016

5 min · 1 track · heavy metal

A relentless assault of thrash riffs and soaring melodies, capturing the urgency of modern anxieties through heavy instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Moth Into Flame — This title track exemplifies the album's themes of temptation and self-destruction, driven by a frenetic pace and powerful vocals that underscore Metallica's trademark sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

A strong thrash composition with dynamic contrasts but limited depth for repeated listens.

What we noticed

The song features a rapid tempo with aggressive guitar riffs that dominate the first half, while the chorus introduces soaring melodies.
The structure alternates between intense verses and a more melodic chorus, creating a dynamic contrast throughout.

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

Influence 3/10

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: Fan Favorite — Acclaimed single from a well-received album, resonates with dedicated fans.
Themes: digital addiction· self-destructive obsession· modern fame's consequences
Career context: Released as part of Metallica's tenth studio album, 'Moth into Flame' followed their previous record 'Hardwired... to Self-Destruct', marking a return to form for the band. At this point in their career, Metallica was re-engaging with their thrash metal roots while also embracing contemporary production techniques.
Stylistic neighbors: Megadeth· Slayer· Anthrax