In an intriguing twist of perspective, Corey Taylor has boldly declared his admiration for METALLICA’s controversial 2003 album, “St. Anger,” in the latest edition of Revolver Magazine. Despite its reputation as one of the metal genre’s least acclaimed records, Taylor offers a dissenting opinion, arguing that it is unfairly maligned and harbors hidden gems.
Taylor, known for his work with bands like Slipknot and Stone Sour, challenges the prevailing narrative surrounding “St. Anger.” He contends that certain aspects, particularly the grooves showcased in the titular track, warrant more recognition than they have received.
Initially, Taylor admits to harboring reservations about the album, citing issues with the mix and the absence of guitar solos. However, the transformative experience of witnessing METALLICA perform the album in their rehearsal space altered his perspective dramatically.
“First of all, when it came out, I was a raging alcoholic prick,” Taylor candidly revealed. “And when I listened to it, the mix kind of threw me off, and I wasn’t paying attention to the songs. I was kind of following the herd on that.”
Yet, Taylor’s perception shifted when he encountered the deluxe version of the album, featuring a companion DVD showcasing METALLICA’s raw rehearsal space performance. This intimate glimpse into the creative process allowed Taylor to focus solely on the essence of the songs, transcending any lingering concerns about production quality.
“Watching that, I could hone in on the songs,” Taylor explained. “I wasn’t stuck on how it sounded. I could listen to what was going on, and it immediately gave me a better appreciation of what it was.”
Now, Taylor champions “St. Anger” as a repository of hidden treasures, acknowledging its overlooked strengths. He contends that the title track, in particular, boasts undeniable power and intensity.
“So now when I listen to it, I think a lot of the stuff’s really good, and there are some good grooves on it that I think are really underappreciated,” Taylor asserted. “I mean, that title track is a motherf**ker, you know?”
In essence, Corey Taylor’s journey from initial skepticism to newfound appreciation serves as a testament to the nuanced complexity of musical interpretation and the importance of revisiting art with fresh eyes and ears.
