Contrary to the general consensus of 'Metallica' fans, I personally don't feel this is the stunning album it's made out to be. While I agree it's a very influential and landmark Thrash Metal album with superb subtle moments, I don't feel it betters 'Ride the Lightning'. The majority of tracks in my opinion are too drawn-out and soon begin to drag, and while the format for the album closely follows the predecessor, always comes out second best. Performance wise the band are on top form, 'Hetfield's' vocals while never the cleanest, sound their best here, but it's the memorable riffs and rhythm section of 'Lars Ulrich' and 'Cliff Burton' that really makes the album.

First up is 'Battery' and after an acoustic intro, transforms into a full throttle thrasher, graced with fine guitar solos, cutting vocals from 'James Hetfield' and thunderous 'Lars Ulrich' drumming. The epic title track follows and although I'm not especially keen on the lyrics, the song is well structured with shrewd pace changes and highlights superb instrumentation throughout. Not so impressive is 'The Thing that should not Be' a laboured plodder that is regrettably far too drawn-out, overlooking this the rhythm work is still top notch. The pace drops for the ballad come rocker 'Welcome Home' a quality cut which starts off melodic and subtle only to develop into a crunchy rocker, supported by ripping 'Hammett' guitar work and 'Hetfield' working the lyrics excellently. Following in fine form is the epic 'Disposable Heroes', a pure 8 minute Thrash blazer and despite the fact it's a tad long, the lyrics are well thought through and complimented by great rhythm and guitars. 'Leper Messiah' ensues and in my opinion is a fairly run-of-the-mill Thrash song, the exception being some inventive guitar work, but other than that it's a tad dull with crude and uneven lyrics. I've always enjoyed 'Metallica' instrumentals, (probably because I soon tire of 'Hetfield's' vocals) and 'Orion' fails to disappoint as they concoct a piece full of variety and braced by great solos and mesmerising rhythm. 'Master of Puppets' closes with 'Damage, Inc.' which commences slowly, only to pick up to a blistering pace and emphasises the usual furious riffs, skilled guitaring and thumping drum and bass work,

Perhaps a little hardcore Thrash for my liking but this is still a milestone of the genre and any self respecting fan will already have this album in their collection. Sadly 'Master of Puppets' would be the last album with highly respected bassist 'Cliff Burton', who tragically died while on tour in Sweden.