Metallica Set To Release Reissue of ‘Load’ With Unreleased Tracks

Metallica, one of the most influential metal bands in history, is set to release a colossal deluxe box set reissue of their sixth studio album, “Load”. Originally launched in 1996, this album marked a significant shift for the thrash legends as it embraced elements of blues and alternative rock, a departure from their previously intense metal sound. This creative decision, accompanied by their updated aesthetics such as shorter haircuts, stirred debates within their fan base. Despite its controversy, the album earned multi-platinum status and set the stage for Metallica's evolution over the decades.

The remastered “Load,” set for release on June 13 via Metallica’s Blackened Recordings, promises to be a comprehensive package, spanning an array of formats that include a standard 180g 2LP, CD, cassette, and digital forms with a Spatial Audio mix using Atmos. This time capsule of Metallica's 1995-97 era will include the extended version of “The Outlaw Torn,” a track that was previously edited on the original CD release due to time constraints. The highlight of this release is the hefty deluxe box set, which is not just an auditory experience but a collector's dream.

This spectacular box set includes an impressive 301 total tracks, with a staggering 245 of them unreleased. Beyond the music, which spans 15 CDs and four DVDs, the set captures behind-the-scenes moments, live performances, and rare demos that shed light on a crucial period in Metallica’s career. It also features special memorabilia items such as 14 Rorschach Test cards, a Pushead patch, a Lollapalooza poster, and a 128-page book loaded with unreleased photos and stories from the era. All these elements encapsulate the ambition of Metallica during a transformative phase.

During the production of “Load,” Metallica found themselves at a crossroads, needing to follow up their mega-successful “Black Album.” The resulting album saw the band adapting to the changing music landscape of the 90s, which had been heavily influenced by the grunge movement. Despite some backlash, “Load” still went on to sell five million copies in the U.S. alone, proving its enduring appeal. Additionally, it spawned a second record, “Reload,” released the following year, further cementing Metallica's adaptability and resilience.

The release of the deluxe box set is not just about revisiting old tracks; it is also an opportunity for Metallica to showcase unreleased gems from their vault. The rich array of live material included in the set features recordings from significant performances, such as their headlining spot during Lollapalooza in 1996 at the Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre. Among the extras are DVDs capturing studio footage, live shows, and exclusive on-air TV performances, that provide a more intimate view of the band’s life on the road and in rehearsals.

Pre-orders of this lavish set offer fans early digital access to remastered tracks, including mixes and live rendition of “Until It Sleeps.” This song, one of the standout singles from the album, is presented in several new versions, such as the “Herman Melville Mix” and a live recording from their 1996 performance at Slim’s in San Francisco. Such offerings highlight Metallica's commitment to celebrating their musical legacy with both long-time followers and new fans.