Metallica: 10 Best Lars Ulrich Drum Performances

Once everyone put on Ride the Lightning, many were probably expecting a tame first offering when the classical guitar piece begins. However, one look at the album sleeve let you know that "Fight Fire With Fire" is going to take you on a different kind of ride.

You already know that it's gonna be brutal when James Hetfield's guitar kicks in, but the drumming will have you working up a sweat all while putting your brain through the ringer. The riff that connects the verses together is one of the most confusing syncopated rhythms Ulrich has ever played, with most of the movements happening on the offbeat. It's not exactly a big prog rock production, but to get it down almost seems impossible when going at such high speeds.

While the guitars eventually get a break during Hetfield's harmony guitar part and long-held open chord, Ulrich never slows down as his kick drums act like the pulse of adrenaline still pumping through your veins. Whereas most drummers have more complicated rhythmic structures laced throughout their songs, the real challenge of this track is the sheer endurance you have to possess to make it through the whole track. Say what you want about Lars, but you can't say he doesn't give it his all when he has songs like this on his resume.