An in-depth portrait of the band's first decade by a journalist who covered them from their inception, packed with rare photos. This one-of-a-kind behind-the-scenes biography, from a rock writer who once ran the band's fan club, tells the story of Metallica's evolution from the first meeting of James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich in 1981 up through the release of the Black Album. The departure of Dave Mustaine, the death of Cliff Burton, the arrival of Jason Newsted; the club shows and the packed arenas; raucous nights, injuries, multi-platinum success—headbangers everywhere will be compelled by this account of the highs and lows of this incomparable band. Includes rare and previously unpublished photos