Metallica

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Halls of justice painted green, money talking
Power wolves beset your door, hear them stalking
Soon you'll please their appetite they devour
Hammer of justice crushes you, overpower

[Pre-Chorus]
The ultimate in vanity
Exploiting their supremacy
I can't believe the things you say
I can't believe, I can't believe the price
You pay

[Chorus]
Nothing can save you
Justice is lost, justice is raped, justice is gone
Pulling your strings, justice is done
Seeking no truth, winning is all
Find it so grim, so true, so real

[Verse 2]
Apathy their stepping stone, so unfeeling
Hidden deep animosity, so deceiving
Through your eyes their light burns, hoping to find
Inquisition sinking you with prying minds
[Pre-Chorus]
The ultimate in vanity
Exploiting their supremacy
I can't believe the things you say
I can't believe, I can't believe the price
You pay

[Chorus]
Nothing can save you
Justice is lost, justice is raped, justice is gone
Pulling your strings, justice is done
Seeking no truth, winning is all
Find it so grim, so true, so real

[Instrumental Break]
[Guitar Solo]

[Verse 3]
Lady justice has been raped, truth assassin
Rolls of red tape seal your lips, now you're done in
Their money tips her scales again, make your deal
Just what is truth? I cannot tell, cannot feel

[Pre-Chorus]
The ultimate in vanity
Exploiting their supremacy
I can't believe the things you say
I can't believe, I can't believe the price
We pay
[Chorus]
Nothing can save us
Justice is lost, justice is raped, justice is gone
Pulling your strings, justice is done
Seeking no truth, winning is all
Find it so grim, so true, so real

[Outro]
Seeking no truth, winning is all
Find it so grim, so true, so real

Are you ready to dive into the powerful and compelling world of Metallica? Then buckle up and prepare yourself for the intense ride that is "...And Justice for All." As the title track off their fourth album, this song packs a punch with its thought-provoking lyrics and a sound that will leave you craving more. We delve into the heart of this metal masterpiece to understand the message of corruption and injustice that Metallica so brilliantly conveys.

About ...And Justice for All

Released in 1988, "...And Justice for All" stands as a testament to Metallica's ability to tackle heavy societal issues through their music. The song's primary theme revolves around the rich and powerful corrupting the justice system and abusing it for their personal gain, all at the expense of the less fortunate. This poignant message resonates with listeners, unveiling the inherent flaws within our society's legal structures.

The song's lyrics are honest and unapologetic, serving as a rallying cry against the injustices inflicted upon the vulnerable. Metallica's razor-sharp critique strikes a chord, compelling us to confront the harsh realities that we may prefer to ignore.

Despite the song's socially-conscious theme, listeners are also captivated by its musical complexity. Metallica masterfully crafts a soundscape that features intricate guitar riffs, thunderous drum beats, and a melodic undertone that elevates the overall experience. The band's technical prowess shines through, with each member showcasing their skill and adding another layer to the track's brilliance.

Interestingly, "...And Justice for All" faced an unexpected fate in Metallica's live performances. After the 1988-89 "Justice" tour, the band decided to retire the song due to a perceived lack of engagement from the audience. Guitarist Kirk Hammett once noted, "I couldn't stand watching the front row start to yawn by the eight or ninth minute." For nearly two decades, this powerhouse of a song remained absent from their setlist.

It wasn't until 2008 that "...And Justice for All" triumphantly returned to the stage, much to the delight of Metallica fans worldwide. Its reintroduction proves that great music has an enduring quality, with the song finally finding its audience after all those years. The impact it had on fans during the Metallica by Request tour, where fans chose the setlist, cannot be understated. It became a staple, highlighting the everlasting power and relevance of this extraordinary piece of metal history.

As the adrenaline-inducing anthem "...And Justice for All" reverberates through your speakers, prepare to be moved on both an emotional and intellectual level. Feel the weight of the world's injustices as Metallica's powerful lyrics and explosive instrumentation transport you into a realm of raw emotion and unabashed truth.

In closing, it is impossible to deny the impact that "...And Justice for All" has made not only within the realm of metal music but within the hearts and minds of its listeners. Metallica's ability to tackle complex social and political issues head-on whilst delivering a musical experience that transcends genre boundaries is a testament to their enduring influence. Brace yourself for a sonic journey like no other, where the pursuit of justice takes center stage.

• Release Date: August 25, 1988
• Artist: Metallica