METALLICA - RIDE THE LIGHTNING 12" Vinyl LP Album

- European / Netherlands Release on Vertigo Records

  METALLICA at it's BEST!

"Ride the Lightning" marked Metallica's departure from raw aggression and into more complex territory. Intricate songwriting, blistering tempos, and socially conscious themes are found throughout. Classics like "For Whom the Bell Tolls", "Creeping Death", and the title track established Metallica as masters of thrash metal, transcending their debut and influencing the metal landscape forever.

 

High Resolution Photo of METALLICA - Ride The Lightning Vertigo Records

"Ride the Lightning" Album Description

Metallica's 1984 release of their seminal album "Ride the Lightning" on the Vertigo Records label marked a pivotal moment in the European heavy metal scene. This Netherlands pressing brought the intense, raw energy of Metallica's thrash metal to a whole new audience, solidifying the band's iconic status.

A Masterclass in Metal

"Ride the Lightning" showcases Metallica's evolution from their raw debut "Kill 'Em All". This album unleashed anthems like "Fight Fire With Fire", "For Whom the Bell Tolls", "Creeping Death", and the breathtaking instrumental "The Call of Ktulu". The album's expanded musicality, intricate guitar work, and socially conscious lyrics demonstrated the band's exceptional creative growth.

The European Connection

The European release of "Ride the Lightning" has a unique backstory. Produced by Flemming Rasmussen in Denmark's Sweet Silence Studios, the album was initially released on Music for Nations in the UK. Its European distribution, however, was handled by Roadrunner Records, a label renowned for championing heavy metal bands. To reflect this collaboration, the Netherlands pressing featured both Roadrunner Records and Vertigo Records on its labels, a distinct characteristic of this release.

Collector's Gem

Metallica's "Ride the Lightning" on Vertigo Records is a highly sought-after collector's item. Its unique combination of European pressing, distinct label details, and historical significance in cementing Metallica's European fanbase makes it a valuable addition to any serious music collection. Fans of classic thrash metal and die-hard Metallica enthusiasts recognize this pressing as a symbol of the band's early international success.

"Fight Fire With Fire": Metallica's Thrash Metal Call to Arms

Metallica's "Fight Fire With Fire" (1984) is a defining thrash metal anthem. It opens with a deceptive acoustic intro before exploding into relentless riffs, blistering tempos, and Kirk Hammett and James Hetfield's furious guitar work. The song's lyrics are a scathing indictment of nuclear escalation, a stark warning about the futility of fighting violence with violence.

"Fight Fire With Fire" showcased Metallica's musical evolution, moving beyond the raw aggression of their debut with more complex structures and socially conscious lyrics. It solidified their position as thrash pioneers, influencing countless metal bands.

The song's blistering energy makes it a thrilling live staple. Decades on, "Fight Fire With Fire" remains shockingly relevant. Its message about the absurdity of war, coupled with its sheer sonic intensity, ensures its legacy as a thrash metal classic and a relentless call for a more peaceful future. .

Head Bang With Me on???:

Music Genre:

USA Thrash Metal 

Album  Production information for "Ride the Lightning" by "Metallica":

Producers: Metallica
Recorded June - September 1984 at Sweet Silence Studios in Copenhagen, Denmark

Mark "Marc" Whitaker - Producer, Sound Engineer

Flemming Rasmussen - Producer, Sound Engineer

Mark Whitaker Mark Whitaker, a luminary in the realm of music production and sound engineering, was born in 1965, in London, United Kingdom. His journey into the intricate world of audio craftsmanship commenced in the mid-1980s when the heavy metal scene was burgeoning with raw energy and unbridled creativity.

In the late 1980s, Whitaker made a decisive leap into the competitive music industry. His breakthrough came when he was enlisted as a sound engineer for the legendary thrash metal band Exodus. The collaboration proved to be a pivotal moment in Whitaker's career, as he contributed his technical prowess to shape the band's sonic identity.

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Whitaker's fascination with the technical aspects of sound production blossomed during his formative years, drawing inspiration from the revolutionary works of iconic European producers. This passion led him to pursue formal education in audio engineering at the renowned Abbey Road Institute in London, where he honed his skills under the guidance of seasoned mentors.

The heavy metal landscape was undergoing a seismic shift, and Whitaker found himself at the forefront of this sonic revolution. His adept handling of complex recording techniques and nuanced understanding of heavy metal dynamics caught the attention of Metallica, one of the genre's defining acts. Whitaker's collaboration with Metallica on seminal albums such as "Master of Puppets" and "And Justice for All" solidified his reputation as a maestro in the studio.

As Whitaker's portfolio expanded, so did his influence on the heavy metal genre. His work extended beyond the confines of established acts, as he lent his expertise to emerging bands like Laaz Rockit, contributing to the shaping of their sonic landscapes.

Bob Ludwig - Mastering Engineer

Bob Ludwig is a legendary mastering engineer known for his work with Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and Pink Floyd. With a career spanning over five decades, he has won multiple Grammy Awards and founded Gateway Mastering Studios. Ludwig is a pioneer in high-fidelity sound, ensuring top-tier audio quality. Learn more on Bob Ludwig's biography.

Tim Young - Mastering Engineer

Tim Young is a sound and mastering engineer who started his career in music in 1971. During the 1980s he has mastered two dozen of Heavy Metal albums.

Anthony D. Sommella - Photography

Fin Costello - Photography

Fin Costello, a celebrated rock and metal photographer, is known for his iconic images of legendary bands like Deep Purple, Rainbow, and Ozzy Osbourne. With a career spanning decades, his work has graced album covers and magazines, capturing the energy and essence of rock history. Discover more about his incredible legacy at Fin Costello Biography.

Harald Oimoen - Photography, Bass

Pete Cronin - Photography

Pete Cronin has been a photographer for over 30 years and has photographed rock bands like: Demon Pact, Avenger, Metallica, Exciter, English Dogs, Plasmatics, Briar, Bow Wow, Thin Lizzy, Alice in Chains, Megadeth and others.

Rick Brackett - Photography

Robert Hoetink - Photography

Dave Mustaine - Songwriter

Dave Mustaine is the scarred saint of thrash, a man forged in the fire he lit himself. From being ousted by Metallica to leading Megadeth into metal's iron throne room, he snarls, shreds, and spits truth. Read his full bio.

Record Label & Catalognr:

Vertigo 838 140

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram 

Year & Country:

1984 Made in Netherlands
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: METALLICA - Ride The Lightning
Complete Track-listing of the album "METALLICA - Ride The Lightning"

The detailed tracklist of this record "METALLICA - Ride The Lightning" is:

    Side One:
  1. Figth Fire with Fire
  2. Ride the Lightning
  3. For Whom the Bells Toll
  4. Fade to Black
    Side Two:
  1. Trapped Under Ice
  2. Escape
  3. Creeping Death
  4. The Call of Ktulu
High Resolution Photo of METALLICA - Ride The Lightning Vertigo Records  
Album Back Cover  Photo of "METALLICA - Ride The Lightning"
High Resolution Photo of METALLICA - Ride The Lightning Vertigo Records  
Photo of "METALLICA - Ride The Lightning" Album's Inner Sleeve  

High Resolution Photo of METALLICA - Ride The Lightning Vertigo Records  

High Resolution Photo of the young Metallica band on the Original Custom Inner Sleeve  

High Resolution Photo of METALLICA - Ride The Lightning Vertigo Records  

High Resolution Photo of the LP Side One  

High Resolution Photo of METALLICA - Ride The Lightning Vertigo Records  

Enlarged High Resolution Photo of the Record's "Vertigo 838 140-1" label  

High Resolution Photo of METALLICA - Ride The Lightning Vertigo Records  

Index of METALLICA Vinyl Records and Album Covers Gallery

This section shows the complete Metallica discography ordered by album-title. Several titles are International and have been listed with the country of release

METALLICA - And Justice For All
Picture Of METALLICA - And Justice For All Blackened Records 180Gr Vinyl album front cover

  This release on "Blackened Records" label, is the 2018 audiophile re-issue of ""...And Justice for All" the first album released by Metallica after the death of Cliff Burton. It is also the first album with Jason Newsted on Bass guitar.

- ..And Justice For All (Blackened Records) - ..And Justice for All (1988, Netherlands)
METALLICA - Creeping Death (Complete Set Coloured Vinyl Records)
METALLICA - Creeping Death (Complete Set Coloured Vinyl Records) album front cover vinyl record

Creeping Death by the American Thrash Metal band "Metallica" is a 12" EP Vinyl record from 1984. Un-official versions from France (with different labels) have been released in the colors: Blue, Green, Red, White and Yellow Vinyl.

- Creeping Death Blue Vinyl (1984, France) - Creeping Death Green Vinyl (1984, France) - Creeping Death Red Vinyl (1984, France) - Creeping Death White Vinyl (1984, France) - Creeping Death Yellow Vinyl (1984, France)
METALLICA - Death Magnetic
Picture Of METALLICA - Death Magnetic ( Blackened Records ) album front cover

  This is the audiophile re-release of "Death Magnetic" the 2009 album released by the American Thrash Metal band "Metallica". This re-release comes in a gatefold album cover and two audiophile quality 180grams records.

Death Magnetic ( Blackened Records ) 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Hamburg Colorline
METALLICA - Hamburg Colorline album front cover vinyl record

Issued as a limited edition 12" vinyl LP, "Hamburg Colorline 12 May 2009" has become a coveted collector's item. Its raw, unfiltered energy transports listeners back to the heart of that explosive concert.

Hamburg Colorline 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Hardwired to Self Destruct
METALLICA - Hardwired to Self Destruct album front cover vinyl record

"Hardwired to Self Destruct" is the 2016 double album released by the American Speed / Thrash Metal band "Metallica". It was released 8 years after their previous album "Death Magnetic"

Hardwired to Self Destruct 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Harvester of Sorrow
METALLICA - Harvester of Sorrow album front cover vinyl record

The A-side explodes with the relentless energy of "Harvester of Sorrow." This track, a centerpiece of their landmark album "...And Justice For All," exemplifies Metallica's progressive thrash metal sound.

Harvester of Sorrow 12" Vinyl Single
METALLICA - Jump in the Fire (Dutch and English Versions)
METALLICA - Jump in the Fire (Dutch and English Versions) album front cover vinyl record

"Jump in the Fire" is a single derived from Metallica's debut studio album, "Kill 'em All", released in 1983.

- Jump in the Fire (1983, England) - Jump in the Fire (1983, Holland)
METALLICA - Jump in the Fire
METALLICA - Jump in the Fire album front cover vinyl record

The cover art for "Jump In The Fire" is as iconic as the track itself. Created by artist Les Edwards, the image features a demon-like creature surrounded by flames, inviting the listener to literally "jump in the fire."

Jump in the Fire 12" Shaped Picture Disc
METALLICA - Kill 'Em All (International Pressings)
METALLICA - Kill 'Em All (International Pressings) album front cover vinyl record

Metallica’s Kill ’Em All is the explosive debut that defined thrash metal. Released in 1983, this 12” vinyl LP is raw, aggressive, and uncompromising, blending speed, power, and razor-sharp riffs. Featuring iconic tracks like ‘Seek & Destroy’ and ‘Whiplash,’ it captures the band’s youthful intensity, setting the stage for their legendary rise in the metal world.

- Kill 'Em All ( Blackened Records ) - Kill 'em All 2LP (1983, England) - Kill 'Em All (1983, France) - Kill 'Em All (1983, Holland) - Kill 'Em All (1983, UK)
METALLICA - Legendary Garage Tapes
METALLICA - Legendary Garage Tapes album front cover vinyl record

Before the polished production of "Kill 'Em All," Metallica's sound was a volatile beast, unleashed in the cramped confines of a garage. "The Legendary Garage Tapes" serve as a time capsule, showcasing the thrash metal titans

Legendary Garage Tapes 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Live at the Playhouse Theatre
METALLICA - Live at the Playhouse Theatre album front cover vinyl record

This 500-copy limited edition is a treasure trove for devotees of Metallica's raw, uncompromising roots. The setlist reads like a greatest hits collection of their early years.

Live at the Playhouse Theatre 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Load (European & USA Releases)
METALLICA - Load (European & USA Releases) album front cover vinyl record

Metallica's "Load" is a sonic journey capturing the band's evolution. Released in 1996, the controversial album's vinyl edition enriches the listening experience, offering warmth and authenticity.

METALLICA - Load ( 2LP Blackened Records ) - Load (1996,E/M Ventures Elektra )
METALLICA - Master of Puppets (Two English Versions)
METALLICA - Master of Puppets (Two English Versions) album front cover vinyl record

Metallica's 1986 album "Master of Puppets" stands as a towering achievement in heavy metal history. Its complex compositions, blistering aggression, and socially conscious themes cemented the band's reputation as leaders

- Master of Puppets (1986, Netherlands)
Updated
- Master of Puppets (1986, England) - Master of Puppets 2LP DMM audiophile (England)
METALLICA - Master of Puppets
METALLICA - Master of Puppets Picture Disc album front cover vinyl record

The METALLICA "Master of Puppets" 12" Vinyl Picture Disc, a 1986 UK 1st ISSUE with no barcode, is a rare gem for collectors. This limited edition features unique artwork on the vinyl picture disc, adding to its allure.

Master of Puppets 12" Vinyl Picture Disc
METALLICA - Self-Titled The Black Album
Picture Of METALLICA The Black Album 2LP album front cover

This the high-end audiophile release pressed on two 12" vinyl records each on 180 gram vinyl of the self-titled Metallica album and because of the black front and back cover, it is also known as "The Black Album".

METALLICA - Self-Titled The Black Album 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Oberhausen Kopi Arena
METALLICA - Oberhausen Kopi Arena album front cover vinyl record

Recorded at the Kopi Arena, this album transports listeners back in time to a pivotal moment in Metallica's career. The band was riding high on the success of their album *Death Magnetic*

Oberhausen Kopi Arena 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Ride The Lightning (European Releases)
Picture Of METALLICA - Ride The Lightning Blackened Records album front cover

Metallica's "Ride the Lightning" 12" Vinyl LP is a collector's gem. This iconic album marked a turning point in metal history, blending thrash metal and intricate compositions.

- Ride The Lightning (1984, England). - Ride the Lightning (Roadrunner, 1984, Holland) - Ride The Lightning (Vertigo, 1984, Netherlands) - Ride The Lightning (Blackened Records, 2006)
METALLICA - S&M
METALLICA - S&M album front cover vinyl record

This is METALLICA's ninth album, recorded live with the San Francisco Symphony on April 21-22 of 1999. The set list contains songs from Ride the Lightning through ReLoad, as well as two new songs: "- Human" and "No Leaf Clover".

S&M 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - St. Anger
METALLICA - St. Anger album front cover vinyl record

St. Anger is the eighth studio album by American heavy metal band Metallica, released on 5 June 2003. The album was originally to be released on June 10, 2003, but because of fears of extended music piracy over filesharing network

St. Anger 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - The 5.98 EP Garage Days Re-Revisited
METALLICA - The 5.98 EP Garage Days Re-Revisited album front cover vinyl record

Following the tragic death of bassist Cliff Burton in 1986, Metallica found themselves with a significant void to fill. With Newsted taking over bass duties, the band opted to record Garage Days

- The 5.98 EP Garage Days Re-Revisited (1987, Holland) - The 5.98 Garage Days Re-Revisited (1987, UK)
METALLICA - Until It Sleeps Red Vinyl (1996)
METALLICA - Until It Sleeps Red Vinyl (1996) album front cover vinyl record

This limited edition album "Until It Sleeps" is the first single and the fourth song from Metallica's 1996 album Load. This version is pressed on Red Vinyl and comes in a transparent sleeve.

Until It Sleeps Red Vinyl (1996) 12" Vinyl LP