Mercury 黑胶唱片和CD

Review: Originally released in 1998, Garage Inc. would follow the split double albums of Load and Re:Load as a form of creative cleanse for thrash metal titans Metallica. Clocking it at over two hours, this epic compilation of covers taken from the Garage Days Sessions, B-sides, as well as new selections, paint a sprawling sonic picture of the vast array of influences each member holds dear. Running the gamut from punk and hardcore (Discharge, Misfits), to early proto-metal (King Diamond, Motorhead), all the way to their classic rock and more outsider inspirations such as Bob Seger, Blue Oyster Cult and Lynyrd Skynyrd (with their rendition of 'Tuesday's Gone' as an exceptional highlight); this bloated, overstuffed collection may appear overwhelming at first glance, but offers a curious through line and insight into the varying machinations that have maintained Metallica's status as the biggest thrash metal act of all time. It all had to start somewhere, and what better place than the garage?

Review: Metallica's self-titled fifth full-length, subsequently dubbed 'The Black Album', still serves as the controversial bridging point from their iconic run of four definitive thrash metal classics throughout the 80's, to their more sporadic and messy 90s output. For some, the inclusion of producer Bob Rock was a step too far into accessible territory as ten-minute instrumentals were abandoned, compositions were simplified, and the overall aggressive, grim edges showcased on the preceding classics Master Of Puppets and ...And Justice for All were somewhat sanded down to appeal to as large of an audience as possible. Make no mistake however, for every naysayer fan who opts to live in a fantasy where Metallica never continued into a second decade, there's still legions of adoring defenders who praise the balance the group would strike. It also doesn't hurt that the tracklist boasts literally some of the most well known and iconic cuts of their career, from the opening classic 'Enter Sandman' to the hefty groove of 'Sad But True', to more melodious fare like 'The Unforgiven' as well as the timeless ballad 'Nothing Else Matters'.

Review: The Rolling Stones are arguably one not only the most iconic rock bands of all time but also considered legendary performers as well. One of their most well-recorded performances (as noted by fans often) is their 2002 performance at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles, with a track listing full of 70s classics and spread over three albums to get the best possible fidelity from the medium.

Review: The Who's Live At Shea Stadium 1982 (not the Shea Stadium where lower league UK football team Halifax plays, but a venue in New York) captures one of the band's most electrifying performances. Despite being decades into their career, they deliver a dynamic show that is full of their usual enduring energy and musicianship. The setlist is a blend of classics and newer material, each song performed with raw intensity, with Roger Daltrey's vocals soaring, perfectly framed by Pete Townshend's blistering guitar work. The live atmosphere adds an extra layer of excitement, with the crowd's energy palpable throughout, making this a testament to The Who's status as one of rock's greatest live acts that is well worth copping.