The problem is that I don't think Metallica knows how to really write music anymore. I still think James is a good singer and rhythm player, Rob is the best musician in the band, but Kirk can't solo anymore and Lars sounds is so stripped down and basic, which is saying something as he was never a very intricate drummer compared to a lot of the others of the time.
I'll take it because they aren't bad, but I also am not a huge fan of their current sound. They are one of the biggest metal bands ever, but I've seen Youtubers with better production quality than these guys.
I say that, but I'm still quite interested in the band, especially after this, so I at least hope it's better than Death Magnetic, which had a few good ideas, but was kinda marred by production quality and sorta aimlessly long songs.