BY TIM McFARLAND
Metallica's "$5.98 EP: Garage Days Re-Revisited" is a snapshot from a unique period of the band's storied trajectory. Released in 1987 between two of their most iconic studio albums - "Master of Puppets" and "…And Justice For All" - this five-track covers EP encapsulates a raw, energetic side of Metallica that's frequently overlooked.
The record is a tribute to the band's early influences, including Diamond Head, Holocaust, Killing Joke, Budgie, and Misfits. The song choices are a rare glimpse into the music that shaped Metallica’s sound in their nascent stages, a feature which grants this EP a special place in the annals of heavy metal history.
"Helpless" - The EP launches with the cover of Diamond Head's "Helpless," and Metallica does more than justice to this classic track. Hetfield's passionate vocals ride atop a torrent of thrashing guitar riffs and propulsive drumming, culminating in a raw, intense energy that sets the tone for the entire record.
"The Small Hours" - A rendition of Holocaust’s track, it showcases the band's ability to blend atmospheric doom with thrash metal. The song's slow, menacing intro gradually gives way to an onslaught of galloping guitars and thunderous drumming. The track ends in an epic fashion, highlighting the band's ability to create cinematic moments within their music.
"The Wait" - In their cover of Killing Joke's "The Wait," Metallica injects a frenzied tempo and heavy distortion, showcasing their knack for taking an existing piece and amplifying its energy tenfold.
"Crash Course in Brain Surgery" - The cover of Budgie's track is an apt demonstration of Metallica’s early musical craftsmanship. The crunchy guitars, combined with the rhythmic groove of Burton’s bass and Ulrich’s drumming, makes this song a standout piece.
"Last Caress/Green Hell" - The EP concludes with a double-header of Misfits covers, wherein Metallica's punk influences shine. "Last Caress" is full of attitude, whilst "Green Hell" is a blinding blur of hardcore thrash. It's a thrilling close to an EP that bristles with raw energy from start to finish.
Metallica's "$5.98 EP: Garage Days Re-Revisited" is more than just a gap-filler in Metallica's discography. It's an engaging testament to the band's roots and a love letter to the heavy metal genre that bred them. Even though it's a cover EP, Metallica stamps their own brand of aggressive thrash metal onto each track, making it uniquely their own. A special mention for the production, which is refreshingly raw and direct, letting the energy of the performances shine through.
Overall, this album holds a special place in my heart. It’s a must-listen for all die-hard metal aficionados.
Listen to the Album on SPOTIFY