Metallica: 10 Best Hard Rock Songs

There are two schools of thought when it comes to "Enter Sandman:" either it is a jaw-dropping feat in Metallica's catalog or a travesty that afflicted metal's greatest band. While the metal side of the spectrum has certainly seen much heavier offerings from this band, the song checks almost every box in terms of being a hard rock classic.

For starters, the riff dominating the track is probably the greatest rock riff to come out of the 90's. Though bands from the grunge era had their fair share of great licks, this little musical piece has an undeniable eerie presence to it.

As more and more bits get layered, it starts to feel more and more like a train about to hit you. Hetfield's lyrics are also some of the best on the Black Album, as he offers up a demonic twist on the typical lullaby scenario.

To give credit where its due, this was very risky for Metallica to open up their record with this new change in style. Instead of just easing you into the change in direction, the riff just announces itself with a defiant sonic statement. You were either gonna love it or hate it, but you'd have to be a pretty staunch thrash defender if you thought this song wasn't the s**t.