Despite the bad mixing and the lack of bass, this is easily my favourite Metallica album. The borderline prog metal compositions and the lyrics are excellent.
"Borderline" prog metal? I remember after Justice came out, a new band called Meshuggah released their first album "Contradictions Collapse", and everyone thought who heard it "Wow! If Metallica releases their new album and it's anywhere as good as this, it's going to destroy!" Then Priest released "Painkiller" and everyone was like, "HOOLLLY CRAP! Priest SLAYED this!" and... The Black Album came out. Justice is prog metal - probably the largest single influence on Djent and Prog metal of any album. It's probably the first proper full prog metal album. Even Sabbat couldn't have released their meisterwork "Dreamweaver" without Justice. Definitely the first real prog metal album.
@@frankhassle9366 Yep, nobody complained until many years later..... Complaining about the "bad production" has attained contrived meme/mind virus status.
@@HittokiriBattousai17 because it was a little imperfect in the production, many people were unable to see this truly great arrangement. Especially as a reason for the cliff death to degrade this album. In my opinion, AJFA's arrangement is crazier than MOP.
@@sulistyorini2335nah ajfa is very flawed, it went too far in a few places but that's what makes it special. It doesn't need to be a "better" master of puppets
I got this album in the month it was released... and i already owned all albums prior to it... I do like Metallica (not in my Top50 Metal bands but I do like it) but this song is not in my Top20 Metallica songs. But it's nice people enjoy it so much!
You know it's serious when Doug either A) pauses the song, or B) takes to the piano. He did both in the first few seconds. This is going to be a RIDE, y'all.
Eye of the Beholder I recommend to Doug, as well, since it's a song I, for some strange reason, I have been obsessed with for the last 2 years. That song and The God That Failed.
The interesting thing is that from what I understand, the band really doesn't care for that song. I think it's a criminally underrated Metallica song, thematically and lyrically. Such a phenomenal album, front to back. Pretty sure you've done To Live is to Die, right Doug? Blackened is by far my favorite Metallica song. By the way, you could listen to the versions from "And Justice for Jason". Bass has been added to the mix. I'm really not sure anyone has gotten it quite right. A lot of the mixes go TOO heavy on the bass and over compensate. But the OG "And Justice for Jason" is fairly well done.
Something that is not talked about that much is the drumming! This is another level of drumming! The toms right before the lyrics start are a genius composition! Love those toms and the entire drumming in AJFA! 🤘🤘🤘🤘
Controversial opinion: I get why people criticise the sound quality of this album, but as someone who is no stranger to lo-fi metal recordings, I do think the thin, caustic sound actually suits the angsty and cynical themes of the album very well. In any case, this has proven over time to be the Metallica album I come back to the most.
I am surprised with how educated this man is about the band and the history around it. It was a very enjoyable and entertaining video with bits that were informal. I hope the best for this channel in the future.
I used to swear by "MOP" being my favorite METALLICA album but as I grow older and my tastes evolve this is now my favorite album of theirs - its brutally honest, beautiful and poignant in its music and lyrics .... this subject matter is so relevant 30 yrs later !! Good stuff Doug 🤘🤘🤘🤘
I noticed after listening to this song many times the first two times it is sung "I can't believe I can't believe the price you pay Nothing can save you" But the final third time it changes to this: "I can't believe I can't believe the price we pay Nothing can save us"
and they're great at smoothing out key changes like nothing happened. unlike the original bands who performed prog music, they were often not good enough in terms of arrangement, especially in key changes such as drastic changes.
17 yr old me spent hours/days into trying to figure out what's going on here... with minimal result at almost 50. Doug within 2 miinutes has the gist. I love this channel.
Was a awesome concert, especially getting to hear Jason on bass.. lady justice being built up song after song only to fall apart at the end was pretty cool to..
Yes! I saw them three times on this tour and waited out back of the Centrum in Worcester, MA with my nephew.. eventually Jason popped out and spent a little time with us. The shows were incredible.
The intro to this song is one of the coolest things I've ever heard. Whenever I listen to this song, I make a point of repeating the intro two or three times.
There's something special about James' voice on this track. It adds a nice kick of energy. Lady Justice has unfortunately disappeared these days. All we are left with is brilliant music that mentions her...
@@Swampster70 I'm guessing he meant Lady Justice has disappeared figuratively. I've actually been to Metallica HQ. Not inside, but I've been to the building. From the outside, it looks like just a warehouse building. It's on a road with not much else around it. There's a little buzzer on the door and if you buzz it, a receptionist will actually answer... but they wouldn't let us take a tour. Lol. There's a fence around the side of the building but if you look closely through the cracks, you can see the graffiti on the building out back. It was just really cool to be there. I also went to "The Plant" recording studio, where I believe they recorded Load, Reload, Garage Inc, and did the final mix on S&M. It's not The Plant anymore. It's been bought by another company, but the studios are still preserved, and they actually did let us go in and see them. There was no longer any equipment inside, but the booth was there, and the sound stage. It was awesome to be that close to their history.
I was unimpressed by Everything from anyone I heard after this album. Who cares if there is no bass? Prince took the bass out of the Purple Rain album and that's his best album,and one of the best albums by anyone ever.
@@robertshepard2117 Prince took the bass from one song, the entire ajfa has no bass, a lot of songs and sections have no punch because the low end from the bass is not there, i like the album, but god, the mixing and production is garbage
I’m 48, This album came out when I was twelve hahaha. Loved it then, my favorite album of Metallica’s without question. I did like the Black album as well despite the sudden sound character departure but you’re correct, all subsequent albums I have had no interest in.
For me, this is by far their best album. This is my favorite album from anyone. It's popular now to whine about the bass in the mix, but I bought this the day it came out and it was at least 10 years before I heard anyone complain about the bass. The lyrics are harsh, Hetfield's voice was harsh for the first time, and I think the harsh sound of the music fits the theme perfectly. It really makes me sad that they didn't continue in this direction. The Black Album sold incredibly well, but musically it pales in comparison to Justice. Everything after that just seems like a different band to me.
Totally agree. None of us noticed or cared about the missing bass. But maybe that's because most fans were high school kids, and now most fans are in their 50s. It was mostly in the social media era that it became a thing.
@@paulgrudowski4383 I was 16 when it came out. I could be wrong, but I don't remember Doug mentioning the bass on the other Justice songs he's reviewed. He specifically mentioned it this time and referenced the comment sections of the other videos. To be fair, I typically don't notice the bass all that much on the albums before Justice either. When the bass is following the guitars, it's really hard to pick it out.
At this point we've all accepted the lack of bass and it's part of the sound. It's so heavy and razor sharp, nothing sounds like it. I'd love to have a proper remix with the bass just to have it, but I don't think I'd prefer it after spending so much time with it.
I bought it a long time ago and I complained about the lack of bass even then. What's your point? The fact is the album would have kicked ass even harder had James and Lars not been such childish idiots after Cliff died.
@jasonbodden8816 The point is what I said, most of us (OK, my small microcosm group of high school friends in 1988) didn't give a shit. It banged like almost nothing else. If you bought it in 1988 and thought the lack of bass sucked, then props to you.
I’ll never forget the first time I heard this album when I was a kid. It wasn’t a genre I was interested in, but I borrowed the cassette from a friend. I was probably 14? Laying on the floor of my dad’s apartment in the dark with his brown Realistic headphones. He had already gone to bed. I was totally sucked in.
And Justice For All is my favorite album from them hands down. The chunky yet crisp and clean guitar tone just sets it apart from the rest of their albums. on a side note: i think Galactic Funk (live 1985) by Casiopea would make for a great video! i think their one of the best jazz fusion bands to do it and the keyboard solo is crazy!! great video as always!!!
I highly recommend josh dubois's cover of the whole justice record on the bass channel. He doesnt mix it poorly like most "justice for jason" videos, and his tone is just monstrous. He also just does great covers all around
I remember when this album came out; it was great! I, also, saw the tour - which featured Queensryche as the opening act! An amazing concert! Also, as a former hairstylist, that's a great cut. Give the stylist my compliments!
That would have been awesome. I saw them on this tour, but the Cult opened. Would have much preferred to see Queenryche. They were at their peak then as well.
Thank you Doug. Really enjoyed this one. Classic song. Classic album. Definitely their angriest album at a time when the death of Cliff was still very raw in their hearts. Sending my best wishes to all Americans from here in New Zealand. Peace and love. 🙏
I really feel that And Justice for All is their most technical album they've ever done... Dyer's Eve is by far their most technical song they've ever written. So many time changes. it is what set them apart at the time.
Dyer's Ever isn't technical per say... it's just freakin weird and fast as all hell. The main riff's loop is just ridiculous. They've made much more complex riffs and songs but Dyer's Eve is something else. It's exactly how it was meant to be. There will never be another song like it. It's unique (yeah, ...it's one of my favourite of all time...)
Yes the Black Album sent them to mainstream but One is the track the cracked the shell and showed the world that Metallica couldn't be contained underground.
Y' know, I've heard this song a million times, but it never clicked that what they're playing coming out of the guitar solo is the same as the opening theme, just distorted, until you pointed it out. That was cool. Liked watching you break down the song.
I like the mix. It's so thin, tinny, and antiseptic. It fits the subject matter so well. For instance, Eye of the Beholder, is probably the best example of this on the album. The mix makes me feel as though I'm in a padded room, wearing a straight jacket. You can really feel the depression and wasteland the band was in the midst of, after that bus landed on Cliff. That divebomb that Kirk does at the end of the solo sends chills down my spine.
Love your analysis/reactions! One of my favorite bands and, in my opinion, one of their strongest efforts (even considering the inaudible Newsted). Just listen to how almost prophetic lyrics are as well.
Musically and lyrically. Metallicas best album for me. I was 14 when this came out and it changed my life. Btw. Love your reactions. But your hair was the star today!
By far their best album. Well, to me anyhow. Just banger after banger. This should've been a full album reaction. Shortest Straw and Harvester of Sorrow are amazing. Their best work.
First, hope your back is better. This was the first Metallica album I bought. 'And Justice For All' and 'Dyers Eve' are my 2 favorite songs off this album. Looking forward for more Metal this year.
You gotta do "Eye of the Beholder" next. From the same album, but they haven't played it live since 1989. TheBassChannel also has a KILLER bass cover of it that REALLY brings out what the song should have sounded like. He plays it exactly as Jason did (though he uses fingers whereas Jason used a pick).
The title of the song comes from the Al Pacino movie of the same name. Justice was first tour I saw them on. I would see every tour after that up to Death Magnetic. That's where I kind of lost interest. The Justice tour though was incredible. Back when they were calling Jason Newkid. This was there first arena headlining tour. This is where wild stage antics started. For this one the lighting rig "snapped" and came swinging down toward the stage. Later, during this song, the statue of justice blows up and falls in pieces to the stage. We were in the very last row in Joe Louis Arena in Detroit but it didn't matter. It was so incredible.
One of my top 5 favorite Metallica songs off my favorite album. Thank you so much for breaking it down. So many little details in this song that make it great and you highlighted all of them. Really fun to play on guitar too. 🤘
Love listening to you and how you explain meaning and context. You're well informed and obv. have great understanding for music. Also loved your "To live is to die" vid. Keep rocking ☀️
Master of Puppets is undoubtedly Metallica's best overall album, but AJFA is a masterpiece in its own right with all of the insane proggy things happening. This song has always been one of their "hidden" gems. Hetfield was at his songwriting best on this album.
Definitely not "undoubtedly". I'd say among Metallica fans it's basically a split between AJFA and Master, at least for most. Some favor Ride The Lightning, too... but to say Master of Puppets is "undoubtedly" their best overall is wrong.
@@MR-vg7yn I'd say undoubtedly is fair. If you're going for an impartial, unbiased view of the albums- MoP is an absolute masterpiece amongst any band in history. The quality of the songwriting, the musicianship, the production, the consistency of quality between songs, the variety- it ticks every single box in being a top 10 all time metal album. AJFA (and RtL) are excellent albums, but AJFA suffers from poor production and messy sound, as well as the songs being just a hair samey. RtL similarly has a lot of similar sounding songs. Those 3 are peak Metallica without question but MoP is their opus. Doesn't mean that some people might prefer another album, and they're fully entitled to (I've always loved RtL) but sometimes lightning in a bottle is what it is. Same with Megadeth, Rust in Peace is always going to be their greatest achievement- some people may prefer other albums but that's unquestionably their greatest work.
I remember when this album was released and they played a "secret" show in the parking lot outside of Tower Records in San Jose. They didn't get the permits they needed, because they weren't announcing the show and expecting the thousands of fans that showed up. Unfortunately for them, local hero and legendary bay area DJ Dennis Erectus let the news slip. That's how I found out was able to be there. It was awesome. Or was that the Black Album? Oh well. Years later I'd see the same truck trailer that they played on, set up in the parking lot of Oakland Coliseum for the AFC Championship game. I ran and got my buddies and made it back before they started playing. Got to see Bob Rock on bass for that set. 🤟🧙♂🤟
If you saw Bob Rock on bass it was likely 2002-2003 when Jason was no longer there but they hadn't yet hired Rob Trujillo. But there's a leap between Justice '88 and St Anger '03 so who can tell.
I remember when this came out. We lost our f***ing minds! God, 1988 was such a prime year for metal. Glad to watch you appreciate the very mature music as well as the great lyrics.
First metal album I ever owned, 2nd CD ever purchased! Besides the obvious mix issues, it still shines as a classic album of still listen to front to back any day.
Hey Doug! I very much recommend listening to Inamorata from Metallicas newest album, it’s a very interesting and emotional album, I’m very sure you’ll enjoy it.
I was in the ninth grade when this came out. I started electric guitar lessons that year and this was one of the first songs i learned. Remember listening to this brings me back to 1988 and 1989
Love the different varieties of reactions. Some are emotional reactions, some are vocal analysis' and here's Doug with his musicality analysis. One of the things that brings me back here.
a friend of mine used to have a nice plot of land with no neighbors near by. he had this way over the top audio setup in his house. shortly after getting it all set up he invited me over to hear his setup. he has a huge collection of records and asked me to pick one, and ...And Justice For All was the first one up. the bass drums on this album made it feel like we were having a 4.0 earthquake for the duration of the album
I love the Blackened remaster version of this album. As a drummer i used to love putting this album on and doing a play along with it. The whole album is fun to me to play along to
Possibly the best Metallica song for you to review. Been a fan since ~1986, this has always been my favorite Metallica album. SO much rich metal history on it. Thank you for another great review Doug!
@@JVR10893 I hear you! I became a fan during Master of Puppets, so Justice was my first Metallica released album that I experienced. I know Master of Puppets is normally acclaimed as the 'best' Metallica did, and the Black album was the most popular. But for me, the rawness of the recording combined with the progressive song writing was bliss.
I dont know if ive heard it too many times, but i swear i can hear the bass in their song Eye of the Beholder of of this album, another fantastic song off theirs.
I love Doug's videos. It's almost like some validation for us musically gifted but lacking training. I've been singing and playing instruments of all kinds, mostly string and "claviture" instruments, for close to 35 years and I like how he explains things that you just "feel" when playing.
Our Doug is getting more metal by the video, the heads going harder and he doesn't even know it. Next he'll be throwing in a few metal riffs playing in church ! Love your videos mate, and your open mind into a different Style of music from what you work with, cheers from Australia 🤓🇦🇺
This album was a huge musical moment in my life, and be willing to bet quite a few listeners here lol.... Master of Puppets was a really high benchmark and way ahead of it's time, but And Justice For All was beyond anything anyone expected....
Something I noticed through a bunch of listens to this song: in each of the pre-choruses, in the small pause after the word “price” - just before James starts singing again, there are differing numbers of snare hits. First there’s none, then 3, then 5
Used to be a bigger Metallica fan than I am now but this is probably my favorite one for some reason. Remember learning it on guitar super early in my playing ad was so excited
Lars drumming is light years ahead in style and polyrhythmic signatures. Never given enough credit for his work at this. Great masterpiece of metal music. Sounds better than all the cookie monster shit out there today.
I've loved the time-signature-changes since the first listeningen back when it was released. It's not often a progressive choice like that fits so well!😊
I have no idea what hes doing with the piano but its so sick seeing someone so invested in just the INTRO of this song. Imo one of my favourites, just behind Trapped Under Ice, Fight Fire With Fire and Fade To Black
No matter what anyone says, this whole album is Metallica's masterpiece. The first three are awesome, but this is the greatest work of art they've ever done.
Thanks for the reaction again. This reminded me how complex this song is, it has so many elements. Always liked it. But I can also understand that it isn't their most liked production, as it's very long and propably requires lot of concentration, not clearly any easy to listen song. So they don't play it live often.
And Justice For Y’all
😂😂😂
😂
😅
Yessss 😊
Thanks for the Justice.
"James at guitar and vocals; Kirk at guitar, Lars at drums and Jason at the credits"
This is so sad. Would sound much better if Jason were actually present in the mix.
@@JoelBass68it wouldn’t though this is the best produced Metallica album up to this point
@@kylehoulihan3875how wouldn't it sound better with bass? Lars, is that you?
It actually would. You have no idea how it sound so how can you concretely say that? @@kylehoulihan3875
@@srbaran Exactly. There's a guy who recorded bass for the album and put it together. The album sounds incredible with actual audible bass tracks!
Despite the bad mixing and the lack of bass, this is easily my favourite Metallica album. The borderline prog metal compositions and the lyrics are excellent.
"Borderline" prog metal?
I remember after Justice came out, a new band called Meshuggah released their first album "Contradictions Collapse", and everyone thought who heard it "Wow! If Metallica releases their new album and it's anywhere as good as this, it's going to destroy!"
Then Priest released "Painkiller" and everyone was like, "HOOLLLY CRAP! Priest SLAYED this!" and...
The Black Album came out.
Justice is prog metal - probably the largest single influence on Djent and Prog metal of any album.
It's probably the first proper full prog metal album. Even Sabbat couldn't have released their meisterwork "Dreamweaver" without Justice.
Definitely the first real prog metal album.
@@bobsurface908 I'd love you to go more in depth in this, I want to say I agree, I just don't know why.
The mix is absolutely perfect. Quit complaining.
I got to see the Justice tour in 89... Definitely a good time for them live! (Missed Cliff unfortunately being an Aussie)
@@frankhassle9366 Yep, nobody complained until many years later..... Complaining about the "bad production" has attained contrived meme/mind virus status.
Masterpiece
I love that Doug’s hair gets crazier the longer the song goes on 🤘
LOL yes! he's turning into a meme before our eyes.
Do you remember Alf making a Rock video? 😃
Notice the unavoidable haed banging that metallica does all so well..
this 👆🏻😄
He has to fend off surfers wanting to ride that wave! Lol
This is my favorite Metallica song. So much going on, and all of it is rad.
This album is extremely underrated.
@@HittokiriBattousai17 because it was a little imperfect in the production, many people were unable to see this truly great arrangement. Especially as a reason for the cliff death to degrade this album. In my opinion, AJFA's arrangement is crazier than MOP.
@@sulistyorini2335nah ajfa is very flawed, it went too far in a few places but that's what makes it special. It doesn't need to be a "better" master of puppets
Agreed! Best Metallica song IMHO!
I got this album in the month it was released... and i already owned all albums prior to it... I do like Metallica (not in my Top50 Metal bands but I do like it) but this song is not in my Top20 Metallica songs. But it's nice people enjoy it so much!
Definitely their most progressive and musically interesting album. The most use of odd time signatures you will see by Metallica.
favourite album
#where'sjason
*accidental use... lets not kid ourselves and think Lars can count :P
@@AdamRobertshawLet’s stop pretending Lars is a useless child? Half of Metallica’s songs wouldn’t exist without him and he doesn’t deserve the hate.
@@Liam94Smithabsolutely
You know it's serious when Doug either A) pauses the song, or B) takes to the piano. He did both in the first few seconds. This is going to be a RIDE, y'all.
eye of the beholder from this album is another classic ..lyrics just as true today as back then as well
Eye of the Beholder I recommend to Doug, as well, since it's a song I, for some strange reason, I have been obsessed with for the last 2 years. That song and The God That Failed.
@@HittokiriBattousai17 Is that because of a group of people who love to tell others to "do as I say not as I do"?
On my list!
The interesting thing is that from what I understand, the band really doesn't care for that song. I think it's a criminally underrated Metallica song, thematically and lyrically. Such a phenomenal album, front to back. Pretty sure you've done To Live is to Die, right Doug?
Blackened is by far my favorite Metallica song.
By the way, you could listen to the versions from "And Justice for Jason". Bass has been added to the mix. I'm really not sure anyone has gotten it quite right. A lot of the mixes go TOO heavy on the bass and over compensate. But the OG "And Justice for Jason" is fairly well done.
@@almaher8909 Wrong song dude, that's dyers eve.
Probably my favorite Metallica album. This was their peak.
Something that is not talked about that much is the drumming! This is another level of drumming! The toms right before the lyrics start are a genius composition! Love those toms and the entire drumming in AJFA! 🤘🤘🤘🤘
You're right, it's just crazy no one has ever or will ever hear these drums live, since Lars can't play for shit.
@@goatzee69420Now he only makes simple ass fills
you should listen to “the frayed ends of sanity” also from this album, it’s my fav one
Controversial opinion: I get why people criticise the sound quality of this album, but as someone who is no stranger to lo-fi metal recordings, I do think the thin, caustic sound actually suits the angsty and cynical themes of the album very well.
In any case, this has proven over time to be the Metallica album I come back to the most.
i'm much the same.. ive listened to it so much that the AJFJ versions sound wrong to me. as you said, the thinness suits the subject matter
me too! i actually like the “thin” sound and i personally think the overall sound fit the theme of the album
The sound of this album makes AJFA its genre. It's brilliant.
Me too. But I think it sounds massive.
Not thin.
@@loukola5353 What the hell is AJFA ?
I am surprised with how educated this man is about the band and the history around it. It was a very enjoyable and entertaining video with bits that were informal. I hope the best for this channel in the future.
I used to swear by "MOP" being my favorite METALLICA album but as I grow older and my tastes evolve this is now my favorite album of theirs - its brutally honest, beautiful and poignant in its music and lyrics .... this subject matter is so relevant 30 yrs later !!
Good stuff Doug 🤘🤘🤘🤘
MOP and AJFA warred within me for years for favorite album. AJFA pulled slightly ahead and has been in the top spot ever since.
I love playing this song on the guitar. It's one of those songs that is straight to the point and no nonsense that sounds amazing.
I noticed after listening to this song many times the first two times it is sung
"I can't believe I can't believe the price you pay
Nothing can save you"
But the final third time it changes to this:
"I can't believe I can't believe the price we pay
Nothing can save us"
This was Metallica's peak. Master of Puppets was amazing as well, but AJFA always did it for me since it was more raw
Their most complex and "prog" album; the arrangements are great.
and they're great at smoothing out key changes like nothing happened. unlike the original bands who performed prog music, they were often not good enough in terms of arrangement, especially in key changes such as drastic changes.
This album is the closest they ever got to prog, and imo Blackened is actual progressive metal.
This album is more prog and grove than it’s thrash
Most progressive might be "Lulu" for all the wrong reasons 🤣
@@aurinrakkun8589 blackened is not progressive metal lol. it has progressive elements, but its structure is basically the same as battery
17 yr old me spent hours/days into trying to figure out what's going on here... with minimal result at almost 50.
Doug within 2 miinutes has the gist. I love this channel.
Was a awesome concert, especially getting to hear Jason on bass.. lady justice being built up song after song only to fall apart at the end was pretty cool to..
Yes! I saw them three times on this tour and waited out back of the Centrum in Worcester, MA with my nephew.. eventually Jason popped out and spent a little time with us. The shows were incredible.
By far my favorite stage set up for any song on any tour they have done. I got to see it live 3 times. ua-cam.com/video/HbokBTEBEOE/v-deo.html
it was nice to grow up in a time when metal grew up and started to be taken seriously
The intro to this song is one of the coolest things I've ever heard. Whenever I listen to this song, I make a point of repeating the intro two or three times.
Nothing better than a metal Monday and a Metallica Monday!
There's something special about James' voice on this track. It adds a nice kick of energy. Lady Justice has unfortunately disappeared these days. All we are left with is brilliant music that mentions her...
💯
"Lady Justice has unfortunately disappeared these days"
Doris is chilling out back a the Metallica HQ.
yesAH
@@Swampster70 I'm guessing he meant Lady Justice has disappeared figuratively.
I've actually been to Metallica HQ. Not inside, but I've been to the building. From the outside, it looks like just a warehouse building. It's on a road with not much else around it. There's a little buzzer on the door and if you buzz it, a receptionist will actually answer... but they wouldn't let us take a tour. Lol. There's a fence around the side of the building but if you look closely through the cracks, you can see the graffiti on the building out back. It was just really cool to be there. I also went to "The Plant" recording studio, where I believe they recorded Load, Reload, Garage Inc, and did the final mix on S&M. It's not The Plant anymore. It's been bought by another company, but the studios are still preserved, and they actually did let us go in and see them. There was no longer any equipment inside, but the booth was there, and the sound stage. It was awesome to be that close to their history.
Lady Justice has been raped just like the rest of us... FJB!!!
There's a reason why older Metallica fans don't like (or are just unimpressed by) anything after this album.
That's right
I was unimpressed by Everything from anyone I heard after this album. Who cares if there is no bass? Prince took the bass out of the Purple Rain album and that's his best album,and one of the best albums by anyone ever.
@@robertshepard2117 Prince took the bass from one song, the entire ajfa has no bass, a lot of songs and sections have no punch because the low end from the bass is not there, i like the album, but god, the mixing and production is garbage
Yall are missing out
I’m 48,
This album came out when I was twelve hahaha. Loved it then, my favorite album of Metallica’s without question. I did like the Black album as well despite the sudden sound character departure but you’re correct, all subsequent albums I have had no interest in.
For me, this is by far their best album. This is my favorite album from anyone. It's popular now to whine about the bass in the mix, but I bought this the day it came out and it was at least 10 years before I heard anyone complain about the bass. The lyrics are harsh, Hetfield's voice was harsh for the first time, and I think the harsh sound of the music fits the theme perfectly. It really makes me sad that they didn't continue in this direction. The Black Album sold incredibly well, but musically it pales in comparison to Justice. Everything after that just seems like a different band to me.
Totally agree. None of us noticed or cared about the missing bass. But maybe that's because most fans were high school kids, and now most fans are in their 50s. It was mostly in the social media era that it became a thing.
@@paulgrudowski4383 I was 16 when it came out. I could be wrong, but I don't remember Doug mentioning the bass on the other Justice songs he's reviewed. He specifically mentioned it this time and referenced the comment sections of the other videos. To be fair, I typically don't notice the bass all that much on the albums before Justice either. When the bass is following the guitars, it's really hard to pick it out.
At this point we've all accepted the lack of bass and it's part of the sound. It's so heavy and razor sharp, nothing sounds like it. I'd love to have a proper remix with the bass just to have it, but I don't think I'd prefer it after spending so much time with it.
I bought it a long time ago and I complained about the lack of bass even then. What's your point? The fact is the album would have kicked ass even harder had James and Lars not been such childish idiots after Cliff died.
@jasonbodden8816 The point is what I said, most of us (OK, my small microcosm group of high school friends in 1988) didn't give a shit. It banged like almost nothing else. If you bought it in 1988 and thought the lack of bass sucked, then props to you.
It's such a joy to see Doug as giddy as a boy who just got a new Tonka truck for Xmas. 😂
Your reactions are phenomenal! As fun to watch as they are informative. Keep up the great work in the new year!!!
My opinion this is a very underrated record. One of my few that I can listen to front to back without skipping any songs.
Facts
I’ll never forget the first time I heard this album when I was a kid. It wasn’t a genre I was interested in, but I borrowed the cassette from a friend. I was probably 14? Laying on the floor of my dad’s apartment in the dark with his brown Realistic headphones. He had already gone to bed. I was totally sucked in.
I love how Doug approaches to the listening. Both expert and apprentice
And Justice For All is my favorite album from them hands down. The chunky yet crisp and clean guitar tone just sets it apart from the rest of their albums. on a side note: i think Galactic Funk (live 1985) by Casiopea would make for a great video! i think their one of the best jazz fusion bands to do it and the keyboard solo is crazy!! great video as always!!!
I highly recommend josh dubois's cover of the whole justice record on the bass channel. He doesnt mix it poorly like most "justice for jason" videos, and his tone is just monstrous. He also just does great covers all around
I remember when this album came out; it was great! I, also, saw the tour - which featured Queensryche as the opening act! An amazing concert!
Also, as a former hairstylist, that's a great cut. Give the stylist my compliments!
And Justice For All and Operation:Mindcrime were tailor made to be toured together.
That would have been awesome. I saw them on this tour, but the Cult opened. Would have much preferred to see Queenryche. They were at their peak then as well.
Hi Doug. The inspiration for And Justice For All is taken by the movie by the sane name starring Al Pacino. It's an incredible song and movie.
The song is absolute perfection. Nothing needs to be changed, including the mix. This is their best song and album for me.
It is so interesting to hear your thoughts as you listen to this! Thank you so much!
Thank you Doug. Really enjoyed this one. Classic song. Classic album. Definitely their angriest album at a time when the death of Cliff was still very raw in their hearts. Sending my best wishes to all Americans from here in New Zealand. Peace and love. 🙏
My favourite metal album of all time. Even the lack of bass gives it it's own cold af feeling.
I really feel that And Justice for All is their most technical album they've ever done... Dyer's Eve is by far their most technical song they've ever written. So many time changes. it is what set them apart at the time.
Dyer's Ever isn't technical per say... it's just freakin weird and fast as all hell. The main riff's loop is just ridiculous. They've made much more complex riffs and songs but Dyer's Eve is something else. It's exactly how it was meant to be. There will never be another song like it. It's unique
(yeah, ...it's one of my favourite of all time...)
@@fredlaroche6969It's very fun to play too, once you get the hang of it
Yes the Black Album sent them to mainstream but One is the track the cracked the shell and showed the world that Metallica couldn't be contained underground.
They were too good to stay underground
I love your analysis, awesome reaction. Your enthusiasm when the music does something unexpected, unusual or clever is catching. Thank you!
James is GOAT, lyricism and music writing is unmatched. This album along with puppets two greatest metal albums written.
Enjoyed the reaction
So cool to watch your videos, especially when you talk about the mighty Metallica! Greetings from Brasil!
Y' know, I've heard this song a million times, but it never clicked that what they're playing coming out of the guitar solo is the same as the opening theme, just distorted, until you pointed it out. That was cool. Liked watching you break down the song.
I like the mix. It's so thin, tinny, and antiseptic. It fits the subject matter so well. For instance, Eye of the Beholder, is probably the best example of this on the album. The mix makes me feel as though I'm in a padded room, wearing a straight jacket. You can really feel the depression and wasteland the band was in the midst of, after that bus landed on Cliff. That divebomb that Kirk does at the end of the solo sends chills down my spine.
Sounds beautiful on the keyboard when you played the intro
Such an incredible album.
You HAVE to do Mercyful Fate better sooner than later. I suggest "Satan's Fall" - original studio version from their 1983 album "Melissa".
Yeajj definletly
Love your analysis/reactions! One of my favorite bands and, in my opinion, one of their strongest efforts (even considering the inaudible Newsted). Just listen to how almost prophetic lyrics are as well.
Musically and lyrically. Metallicas best album for me. I was 14 when this came out and it changed my life. Btw. Love your reactions. But your hair was the star today!
By far their best album. Well, to me anyhow. Just banger after banger.
This should've been a full album reaction. Shortest Straw and Harvester of Sorrow are amazing. Their best work.
I want to see his reaction to Dyers Eve. Not nearly as progressive as this, but I want to see his reaction to the intensity of that one.
+1 for Harvester of Sorrow and Shortest Straw…💪💪💪😎
+2 For Harvester of Sorrow
First, hope your back is better. This was the first Metallica album I bought. 'And Justice For All' and 'Dyers Eve' are my 2 favorite songs off this album. Looking forward for more Metal this year.
You gotta do "Eye of the Beholder" next. From the same album, but they haven't played it live since 1989. TheBassChannel also has a KILLER bass cover of it that REALLY brings out what the song should have sounded like. He plays it exactly as Jason did (though he uses fingers whereas Jason used a pick).
The title of the song comes from the Al Pacino movie of the same name. Justice was first tour I saw them on. I would see every tour after that up to Death Magnetic. That's where I kind of lost interest. The Justice tour though was incredible. Back when they were calling Jason Newkid. This was there first arena headlining tour. This is where wild stage antics started. For this one the lighting rig "snapped" and came swinging down toward the stage. Later, during this song, the statue of justice blows up and falls in pieces to the stage. We were in the very last row in Joe Louis Arena in Detroit but it didn't matter. It was so incredible.
My favourite Metallica song!!!! Cheers Doug!!
One of my top 5 favorite Metallica songs off my favorite album. Thank you so much for breaking it down. So many little details in this song that make it great and you highlighted all of them. Really fun to play on guitar too. 🤘
Classical composer turns into a real headbanger 💪💪💪
Love listening to you and how you explain meaning and context. You're well informed and obv. have great understanding for music.
Also loved your "To live is to die" vid.
Keep rocking ☀️
This is my hands down favorite Metallica album ever!!!!!! 🤘👿🤘
Master of Puppets is undoubtedly Metallica's best overall album, but AJFA is a masterpiece in its own right with all of the insane proggy things happening. This song has always been one of their "hidden" gems. Hetfield was at his songwriting best on this album.
Definitely not "undoubtedly". I'd say among Metallica fans it's basically a split between AJFA and Master, at least for most. Some favor Ride The Lightning, too... but to say Master of Puppets is "undoubtedly" their best overall is wrong.
@@MR-vg7yn I'd say undoubtedly is fair. If you're going for an impartial, unbiased view of the albums- MoP is an absolute masterpiece amongst any band in history. The quality of the songwriting, the musicianship, the production, the consistency of quality between songs, the variety- it ticks every single box in being a top 10 all time metal album. AJFA (and RtL) are excellent albums, but AJFA suffers from poor production and messy sound, as well as the songs being just a hair samey. RtL similarly has a lot of similar sounding songs.
Those 3 are peak Metallica without question but MoP is their opus. Doesn't mean that some people might prefer another album, and they're fully entitled to (I've always loved RtL) but sometimes lightning in a bottle is what it is. Same with Megadeth, Rust in Peace is always going to be their greatest achievement- some people may prefer other albums but that's unquestionably their greatest work.
Puppets is like third or fourth.
@captainjefferies9047 it's objectively not. It can be in your opinion, but overall its their best album.
@@dysfunctionaldave It's objectively third. I still put Lighting over it making it fourth.
I remember when this album was released and they played a "secret" show in the parking lot outside of Tower Records in San Jose. They didn't get the permits they needed, because they weren't announcing the show and expecting the thousands of fans that showed up. Unfortunately for them, local hero and legendary bay area DJ Dennis Erectus let the news slip. That's how I found out was able to be there. It was awesome.
Or was that the Black Album? Oh well.
Years later I'd see the same truck trailer that they played on, set up in the parking lot of Oakland Coliseum for the AFC Championship game. I ran and got my buddies and made it back before they started playing. Got to see Bob Rock on bass for that set.
🤟🧙♂🤟
If you saw Bob Rock on bass it was likely 2002-2003 when Jason was no longer there but they hadn't yet hired Rob Trujillo. But there's a leap between Justice '88 and St Anger '03 so who can tell.
Dennis Erectus is a name i haven't heard for 30 years!!!
I remember when this came out. We lost our f***ing minds! God, 1988 was such a prime year for metal.
Glad to watch you appreciate the very mature music as well as the great lyrics.
First metal album I ever owned, 2nd CD ever purchased! Besides the obvious mix issues, it still shines as a classic album of still listen to front to back any day.
Hey Doug! I very much recommend listening to Inamorata from Metallicas newest album, it’s a very interesting and emotional album, I’m very sure you’ll enjoy it.
I was in the ninth grade when this came out. I started electric guitar lessons that year and this was one of the first songs i learned. Remember listening to this brings me back to 1988 and 1989
Love the different varieties of reactions. Some are emotional reactions, some are vocal analysis' and here's Doug with his musicality analysis. One of the things that brings me back here.
I dig the thin sound on And Justice. It lends an almost newsreel kind of feel. Like this is stuff you need to know.
Just love your enthusiasm and undbridled joy! I feel just the same even after listening to this for decades.
Look at those first couple of seconds when the crunchy stuff hits, and he is surprised by it? I want that feeling again.
a friend of mine used to have a nice plot of land with no neighbors near by. he had this way over the top audio setup in his house. shortly after getting it all set up he invited me over to hear his setup. he has a huge collection of records and asked me to pick one, and ...And Justice For All was the first one up. the bass drums on this album made it feel like we were having a 4.0 earthquake for the duration of the album
I love the Blackened remaster version of this album. As a drummer i used to love putting this album on and doing a play along with it. The whole album is fun to me to play along to
Love you appreciating the - sadly - timeless lyrics 🙏
Possibly the best Metallica song for you to review. Been a fan since ~1986, this has always been my favorite Metallica album. SO much rich metal history on it. Thank you for another great review Doug!
the lyrics on this album have described the way things have been before ..at the time ..and 30+ yrs later are more true than ever
I may be in the minority, but I still love this album. Still my fave Metallica album. Even with no bass guitar! 😅
Minority? This is critically acclaimed!
Minority? This is considered a classic Metallica album by the majority of fans.
@@EyesOfFrozenMeatbro wants to feel special somehow
@@JVR10893 I hear you! I became a fan during Master of Puppets, so Justice was my first Metallica released album that I experienced. I know Master of Puppets is normally acclaimed as the 'best' Metallica did, and the Black album was the most popular. But for me, the rawness of the recording combined with the progressive song writing was bliss.
@@ericballi4701 MoP will always be my favorite album of all time, but as far as Metallica is concerned, AJFA is second.
I dont know if ive heard it too many times, but i swear i can hear the bass in their song Eye of the Beholder of of this album, another fantastic song off theirs.
I'd LOVE to see your toughts on "The Frayed Ends of Sanity"
Спасибо за реакцию, мистер Хелверинг! Любо-дорого посмотреть, как это делает профессионал. Лайк.
I love Doug's videos. It's almost like some validation for us musically gifted but lacking training. I've been singing and playing instruments of all kinds, mostly string and "claviture" instruments, for close to 35 years and I like how he explains things that you just "feel" when playing.
Unbelievable... this song stills blowing minds!
Our Doug is getting more metal by the video, the heads going harder and he doesn't even know it. Next he'll be throwing in a few metal riffs playing in church ! Love your videos mate, and your open mind into a different Style of music from what you work with, cheers from Australia 🤓🇦🇺
This album was a huge musical moment in my life, and be willing to bet quite a few listeners here lol.... Master of Puppets was a really high benchmark and way ahead of it's time, but And Justice For All was beyond anything anyone expected....
I love when you just use your piano to explain us music theory behind the songs 👏🏻 it’s so interesting
I am so looking forward to seeing them live in Munich in May.
Thanks Doug, this was a wonderful album. Now i,m 48 and remembering that time .
This is my favorite song in my favorite album EVER. Nice u liked it.
Something I noticed through a bunch of listens to this song: in each of the pre-choruses, in the small pause after the word “price” - just before James starts singing again, there are differing numbers of snare hits. First there’s none, then 3, then 5
Used to be a bigger Metallica fan than I am now but this is probably my favorite one for some reason. Remember learning it on guitar super early in my playing ad was so excited
As always thx Doug for breaking down another master piece. U R a wonderful teacher.
Your amazing Doug, you can analyse these complex songs without even stoping the recording or reversing back!
These first 4 albums from metallica are peak metallica. Maybe the best ever run of albums
YES 🙌 YES 🙌 I can listen to this awesome classic metal song & they have been in HALL OF FAM 🤘🤘🤘❤️❤️❤️🤘🤘🤘
Fantastic album. Great tunes. Unique sound. It is what it is peeps. Embrace the crunch!!
Lars drumming is light years ahead in style and polyrhythmic signatures. Never given enough credit for his work at this. Great masterpiece of metal music. Sounds better than all the cookie monster shit out there today.
I've loved the time-signature-changes since the first listeningen back when it was released. It's not often a progressive choice like that fits so well!😊
I have no idea what hes doing with the piano but its so sick seeing someone so invested in just the INTRO of this song. Imo one of my favourites, just behind Trapped Under Ice, Fight Fire With Fire and Fade To Black
No matter what anyone says, this whole album is Metallica's masterpiece. The first three are awesome, but this is the greatest work of art they've ever done.
One of my faves. I like seeing reactions of songs I grew up with. Watching other people discover these is pretty cool to watch
Thanks for the reaction again. This reminded me how complex this song is, it has so many elements. Always liked it. But I can also understand that it isn't their most liked production, as it's very long and propably requires lot of concentration, not clearly any easy to listen song. So they don't play it live often.
I like to watch your reactions to Metallica- your hair has a way to express itself... Its interesting to hear analyze... Greetings from Serbia!