Metallica - Ride the Lightning 12" Vinyl LP Album

- Netherlands Release

"Ride The Lightning" by Metallica, the iconic masterpiece, thunders onto a 12" Vinyl LP Album in this genuine European release from 1984, specifically Made in Holland. This album, a cornerstone in the thrash metal genre, epitomizes Metallica's musical prowess and features some of their most enduring tracks. The Netherlands release adds a distinct touch to this legendary album, making it a sought-after gem for collectors and fans of Metallica's early discography. This web-page has hi-res photos of the album covers, record label and a detailed description.

 

large album front cover photo of: Metallica Ride the Lightning

Album Description

Metallica's second studio album, "Ride the Lightning," was a revelation in the heavy metal world and cemented the band's status as masters of thrash. Its 1984 Netherlands release on 12" vinyl brings a distinct European flavor to this iconic album, making it a coveted piece for collectors and fans alike.

Labels and Origins

The Dutch pressing of "Ride the Lightning" boasts an interesting mix of record labels:

Roadrunner Records (RR 9848): The classic heavy metal label renowned for its roster of influential metal acts. Roadrunner handled distribution throughout Europe.

Music For Nations: Metallica's European label that funded the album's recording due to Megaforce Records' financial limits at the time.

Take Out Music: A possible indication of a sub-license issued for production specifically within the Netherlands.

The Music

"Ride the Lightning" marked a departure from the raw aggression of Metallica's debut, "Kill 'Em All." It showcased the band's maturing songwriting, featuring more complex arrangements and introspective lyrics without sacrificing any of their blistering intensity.

This album features timeless classics like:

Fight Fire With Fire: A relentless opener, its breakneck riffs, and James Hetfield's snarling vocals set the stage for the album's power.

Ride the Lightning: The title track explores themes of mortality and injustice, underpinned by haunting melodies and dynamic shifts.

For Whom the Bell Tolls: Inspired by Ernest Hemingway's novel, this song delivers a crushing, doom-laden sound.

Fade to Black: A Metallica classic, showcasing the band's growing emotional depth as it grapples with themes of despair and loss.

Creeping Death: This epic track incorporates a Biblical narrative into its furious assault, with Kirk Hammett's blistering solos and Hetfield's chants leading the charge.

European Appeal and Legacy

Metallica found significant success with European audiences early in their career. The Netherlands release of "Ride the Lightning" speaks to the band's devoted following across the continent. This pressing offers a unique piece of Metallica history, embodying the album's enduring power and highlighting the band's widespread popularity.

"Ride the Lightning": Description

Metallica's "Ride the Lightning", the title track of their groundbreaking 1984 album, stands as a defiant anthem that explores themes of injustice, the death penalty, and the raw power of heavy metal itself. With its relentless riffs, haunting melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics, the song is considered a thrash metal milestone.

The Sound: A Thunderous Storm

"Ride the Lightning" kicks off with an ominous, atmospheric guitar intro before exploding into a barrage of driving riffs. Kirk Hammett's blistering solos soar over the relentless rhythm section built by the thunderous drums of Lars Ulrich and the pulsating bass of the late Cliff Burton. James Hetfield's vocals convey anger and despair, perfectly matching the intensity of the music.

The Lyrics: Facing the Electric Chair

Inspired by Stephen King's novel "The Stand", "Ride the Lightning" delves into the perspective of a prisoner on death row, wrongfully convicted and facing imminent execution. It's a chilling exploration of powerlessness, fear, and existential questions about life, death, and justice.

Lines like "Guilty as charged/But damn it, not my fault," express the prisoner's frustration and rage, while "No one to save me now/ Only darkness I see," paint a bleak picture of despair within the system. This focus on a darker, more socially conscious subject matter marked a departure for Metallica and heralded a new level of maturity in their music.

Let's Ride the Lightning:

Music Genre:

Speed Thrash Metal Music

Collector's info:

This album includes the original black/yellow custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by Metallica and band photos. 

Album  Production information:

Producers: Metallica

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

Sweet Silence Studios in Copenhagen, Denmark is a Danish music recording music in Copenhagen, Denmark. It is owned by Freddy Hansson and Flemming Rasmussen (producer of Metallica albums).

Mark "Marc" Whitaker - 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.

more...

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.

Flemming Rasmussen - Producer, Sound Engineer

Danish maestro Flemming Rasmussen shaped the sound of heavy metal. Metallica's thunderous albums? His work. Founder of legendary Sweet Silence Studios, he's produced icons across genres.

Bob Ludwig - Mastering Engineer

Bob Ludwig is an American mastering engineer and record producer. He is widely regarded as one of the best mastering engineers in the music industry, and has worked with a diverse range of artists across various genres, including classical, rock, pop, and jazz.

more...

Ludwig has been active in the music industry since the 1970s and has worked on numerous critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums, including records by Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, and many others. He has also been recognized for his contributions to the industry and has won several Grammy Awards for his work.

Throughout his career, Ludwig has been known for his technical expertise, attention to detail, and his ability to bring out the best in recordings. He has also been a strong advocate for the preservation of audio quality and has worked to promote the use of high-quality analog and digital technologies in the recording and mastering process.

Overall, Bob Ludwig is a highly respected and accomplished mastering engineer who has made a significant impact on the music industry through his work with many of the biggest and most influential artists of our time.

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: Discover the man behind the lens who immortalized rock's golden age. Explore Fin Costello's journey through the vibrant 70s music scene and his iconic photographs that defined an era.

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  ( full-name: David Scott Mustaine ) born 1961 in La Mesa, California. He is the co-founder, lead vocalist, and lead guitarist of the heavy metal band Megadeth, which was formed in 1983. Mustaine is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians in the thrash metal genre and is considered a pioneer of the American thrash metal scene.

more...

Mustaine was originally a member of the band Metallica , but he was eventually fired from the band due to personal and musical differences. He went on to form Megadeth , which became one of the "big four" of the thrash metal genre along with Metallica , Slayer , and Anthrax .

Throughout his career, Mustaine has been recognized for his musical abilities and innovative style, and he has been awarded numerous accolades and awards, including several Grammy nominations. He is known for his fast and complex guitar playing, as well as his powerful vocals and distinctive songwriting.

In addition to his work with Megadeth, Mustaine has been involved in various other musical projects and has collaborated with a number of other musicians. He is also a published author and has been involved in various business ventures and charitable causes throughout his career.

Record Label & Catalognr:

Roadrunner RR 9848, Music for Nations, Take Out Music.

Media Format:

12" Vinyl LP Gramophone

Year & Country:

1984 Made in Holland
Band Members and Musicians on: Metallica Ride the Lightning
    Metallica's Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Cliff Burton
  • James Hetfield
  • Lars Ulrich
  • Kirk Hammet
Complete Track Listing of: Metallica Ride the Lightning
    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
Album cover photos of : Metallica Ride the Lightning
High Resolution Photo of Metallica Ride the Lightning netherlands    
Photo of Metallica (backstage) on the inner sleeve  

High Resolution Photo of Metallica Ride the Lightning netherlands  

High Resolution Photo of Metallica Ride the Lightning netherlands  

High Resolution Photo of Metallica Ride the Lightning netherlands    

Note: the above pictures are actual photos of the album and allow you to judge the quality of cover. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash.

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

"Kill 'Em All" showcases the raw talent and relentless musicianship of the band's original lineup: James Hetfield on vocals and rhythm guitar, Lars Ulrich on drums, Dave Mustaine on lead guitar, and Cliff Burton on bass.

- 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, 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