While I was one of those who claimed Metallica had sold out, the documentary really opened my eyes to what happened to them as musicians and as PEOPLE, which is what should really be considered first and foremost. I've come to understand and accept the "progression", as some would call it, of the band, and that perhaps they don't want to make the same music over and over again? They may have toned their stuff down a little over the years, but you can still rock out to it, regardless. Besides, how many other bands at 40 yrs plus do you see putting on speed metal shows?
The road takes a toll on us all, especially musicians, and so I ask who are we to question the bands motiviations and inspirations for changing their tune, so to speak? I've made that realization, and am ashamed to have been so pigheaded to be so prejudiced and bitter over it. It was more or less out of anger that I harboured such negative opinions. I've been a Metallica fan for a long time, I accepted the change when "Load" came around and dug it as well, but the new "Who the hell are we?" feel of St. Anger really pissed me off, so I personally strayed away for the past 2 years.
Alls I can say is that while the new material isn't my cup of tea so much, I'm re-dedicating myself to the band as a fan, and hope that while this little message will go unappreciated, perhaps some of you will understand what I've come to understand, stop being so bitter over a band, and find happiness in the fact that the guys are still AROUND after all these years, and rockin' out.
A little better sense of direction, a little more patience on their behalf, and I think they'll pick up right where they left off.
You mean the DVD you very nearly cast into the firey depths of Hades for being a selfish and arrogant development?
I'm glad you have decided to actually still support them though. Like I said, rather have them sober and making average music than dead and making none.
i don't mind St Anger, sure its far from their best cd but it still shows they have some fire in their bellys as far as making cool music
__________________ If you dont like Frenzal Rhomb, your a whore!
I am aware that "your" should be "you're," and while I know I should change it as not to offend the grammar fans around the boards, school always said not to bow to peer pressure so it stays as it is
I watched most of Some Kind of Monster last night, and I have to say it changed my mind too. And now I kinda feel sorry for them... And Dave Mustaine...
It was on VH1 last night, I don't know if they'll play it again any time soon
But in any case, I think it's worth a look. And I forgot to mention in my last post that I no longer think Lars Ulrich is as much of a pompous, greedy ******* as I used to.
theres been lots of people saying its great and lots of people saying it sucks balls, you'll have to watch it and make up your mind on that one
__________________ If you dont like Frenzal Rhomb, your a whore!
I am aware that "your" should be "you're," and while I know I should change it as not to offend the grammar fans around the boards, school always said not to bow to peer pressure so it stays as it is
Yessir. I'll be the first to admit that I based my opinion of the movie soley on my feelings. It wasn't until later that the documentary wasn't their idea, and that it wasn't ever really intended to begin with.
Protecting what is yours, Lars was right in the Napster fiasco. When I claimed they sold out, it was because of the total overhaul of the band I loved and respected as metal gods. Short hair, and an alternative rock approach is what pissed me off at first, but I grew to like it. Even S&M was a fantastic venture. I just didn't realize, until after seeing the documentary, Metallica aren't a band that want to be cemented in one period, one time, or one movement. The music is reflective of how they feel right then and there and that now is clear to me. "St. Anger", however, is a totally different departure, and for those who can't appreciate people's personal changes, epiphanies, and motivations will always fall back on the "sell out" cry.
I think Metallica are still true to themselves, which is the way it should be. "Love it or leave it" is another phrase that really came to mind after digesting the documentary. If you have loved the band for this long, there's got to be something you can find to like in their newest incarnation. They'll make music for themselves first and foremost, and FANS have to learn to accept that. I finally did. If Metallica were looking to "sell-out" with "St. Anger" in particular, they failed. One song made it to radio. "Black Album" was just Metallica being introduced into the mainstream, and it's not their faults of their music is loved, you know? Every single artist who ever signs a record contract could be considered a sell out. In that same regard, people also have to eat, buy clothes, and pay their bills. If they chose to do it by sharing their passion, so ****ing what?
Dave Mustaine is horribly misunderstood, and I totally sympathize with him now, more than ever. It's just a shame that everyone thinks he's bitter and resentful when it's the exact opposite, and that all he wanted was a second chance. What's more, Lars regrets it, as he probably should. Same goes for Jason Newsted. James pushed him out because of his insecurities, and that's equally as shameful. Newsted was probably the biggest metal influence left in that band.
It's an incredible documentary. I've seen it 3 times now, having bought it, and it never gets old. That's somewhat unusual, a documentary with re-watch value. The extra clips, being 41 unused scenes are equally as entertaining and valuable.
I never understood why the everyone's general perception of him was so negative. Pertaining to Napster, he's a business man, and I respect that. He's a lot more deeper a thinker than I ever would have given him credit.
But, like I said, the documentary is really good, and answers a lot of questions for those who feel as if they have been betrayed. Answers, answers, answers. All I ever wanted. It just takes a little understanding. It's just so surreal to see Metallica for who they are.
They didn't sell out and if you think they did then you're a moron with a delusional sense of entitlement.
Simple as.
I saw the band play live during St. Anger tour and they tore the place down.
They rule.
With regards to Napster, nobody likes getting ripped off and they were protecting what was theirs. Regardless of the fact that it's art first and foremost, it IS their job.
Dave used to be a real ass
i have a video of him saying this at one of his concerts...
"There 4 legendary metal bands, oh wait five" then he counts down on his fingers:
"1. megadeth
2. Slayer
3. Anthrax
4. Exodus
5. Metallica"
But he did it so Metallica was his middle finger then he yelled "**** YOU METALLICA!."
but...after Dimebag's death he posted on megadeth.com apologizing to metallica and slayer for the things he's said ...he also apologized to metallica/megadeth fans, saying that he'll never say another unkind word about the 22yr long feud with metallica.
Selling out...that phrase is so often used by stupid kids just because a band they like changes their sound.
I never thought they sold out, I do however believe that everything since the black album has been awful, and no documentary is going to swing me on that. I doubt I'll watch it though, Metallica, like Smashing Pumpkins, are one band I've detached myself from on a personal level, because it's all drama drama drama between people I really don't like very much, and I'm just not interested anymore.
i wouldn't say officially that i'm a metallica fan now, but i do like some of their songs like 'fuel', 'nothing else matters', 'die die, my darlin', 'frantic', 'some kind of monster', and so forth.