10 Best Metallica Songs
6. The Unforgiven - The Black Album (1991)
In addition to the shift away from thrash metal, The Black Album also contained a greater number of ballads than any of the band's previous releases.
‘The Unforgiven’ deliberately challenges the quiet verse but loud chorus architype that is so prevalent in the music industry. Instead, the verses are the heaviest part of the song whilst the chorus is stripped back and light on the ear.
Yet the chorus certainly doesn’t lack impact. Hetfield’s vocals work wonderfully alongside the main riff which leads to an almost soothing experience.
Hammett’s guitar work is also a highlight. In tandem with the rest of the track, the solo is melodic throughout, and whilst it’s not the longest or most complex Metallica solo, it’s certainly one of the most beautiful.