CYANIDE

To anyone who thinks that Metallica doesn't deserve to at least be associated with prog metal... Give this a listen. 'Cyanide' is obviously a track that relies mostly on conventional riffage and typical Metallica songwriting, but from the introduction to the song alone, you should be able to tell that this isn't adhering strictly to convention. There are plenty of strange time signatures planted all over this song, and while melodically the song is nothing to talk about, this is certainly one of the most progressively accomplished the band has done.

Robert Trujillo really shines here, and suggests that he should get some more time to showcase his talents and bass guitar. Complete with a quasi-acoustic, dark bridge, this shows Metallica really trying to break out of the slump they experienced with the musical travesty 'St. Anger.' Despite not being a big fan, it's great to see that this band is finally picking up the pieces and doing something credible with their talent.

This single was taken from their acclaimed comeback in 2008, when the "Death Magnetic" album was released. I remember people were so excited to see a new work after what the failed "St. Anger", and when they finally listened to it, they were even more excited because Metallica had returned to its roots, creating a thrash metal album. The first track I listened from that new baby was "Cyanide", a song I found by accident in the radio while being in a car. I listened to it and truly enjoyed it since that first time.

In my opinion, choosing "Cyanide" as a single was a terrific decision, because though it is not the truly radio-tune, it could easily be spread and loved by Metallica fans over the world. The song contains the inherent power of the band, great guitar riffs and wonderful changes in mood and tempo. The work of the four members is great, Hetfield's vocals are raw but cool, Trujillo's bass is better than ever, while Ulrich and Hammett's drums and guitars are in a high level. This single prevails as my favorite track from "Death Magnetic", so I personally like it and recommend it, though if you want to buy it, it is because you are a fan, or you found it cheap.

As you know, I don't normally rate singles with more than 2 stars, this is not an exception. Enjoy it!