In 1987, the band Metallica stood at a crucial crossroads. It was a time when they had already established a strong foothold in the metal underground and were poised to explode into one of the greatest bands on the planet. This wasn’t the Metallica of sold-out stadiums worldwide, but rather the Metallica of raw energy, intensity, and an insatiable hunger for conquest.

Before 1987, Metallica had released three groundbreaking studio albums: “Kill ‘Em All” (1983), “Ride the Lightning” (1984), and “Master of Puppets” (1986). “Master of Puppets,” in particular, had elevated them to new heights in terms of compositional complexity and critical acclaim. This album is considered a masterpiece of the thrash metal genre, but it also marked the end of a significant era for the band.

A Historic Turning Point:

In September 1986, tragedy struck when the band’s tour bus was involved in a devastating accident in Sweden, claiming the life of their talented and visionary bassist, Cliff Burton. Cliff’s passing was a massive shock, nearly leading to the band’s dissolution. However, with unwavering resilience and a determination to uphold Cliff’s legacy, the remaining members – James Hetfield (vocals/rhythm guitar), Lars Ulrich (drums), and Kirk Hammett (lead guitar) – decided to carry on.

1987 and the “Garage Days Re-Revisited” EP:

1987 saw the arrival of new bassist Jason Newsted (formerly of Flotsam and Jetsam). To welcome their new member and help Jason quickly integrate into the band, Metallica released the EP (Extended Play) “The $5.98 E.P.: Garage Days Re-Revisited.” This was a collection of cover songs from punk and New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) bands they loved and that had influenced their sound (e.g., Diamond Head, Holocaust, Killing Joke, Budgie, Misfits).

This EP was not just a way for Metallica to pay homage to their predecessors but also a powerful statement that they were still here, still strong, and ready for new challenges. It also showcased another side of Metallica – fervent rock fans eager to explore diverse sources of inspiration.

On the Path to Conquest:

By 1987, Metallica was no longer an “underground band.” They had become giants in the metal world, known for their explosive live performances and intricate, lengthy compositions. Die-hard metal fans revered them, and their reputation had begun to transcend the boundaries of the genre.

While “The $5.98 E.P.” was not a major studio album, it served as a crucial bridge between the “Master of Puppets” era and the impending global explosion with “…And Justice for All” (1988) and especially “Metallica” (The Black Album, 1991). In 1987, Metallica was a band recovering from loss, re-shaping itself, and focusing on the future. They had a new lineup, a renewed determination, and most importantly, a massive loyal fanbase eagerly awaiting the next chapter in their journey to conquer the world.