Ride the Lightning is the second studio album by American heavy metal band Metallica, first released on July 27, 1984, by the independent record label Megaforce Records.

The album was recorded in three weeks with producer Flemming Rasmussen at the Sweet Silence Studios in Copenhagen, Denmark. The artwork, based on a concept by the band, depicts an electric chair being struck by lightning flowing from the band logo.

Although rooted in the thrash metal genre, the album showcased the band's musical growth and lyrical sophistication. This was partly because bassist Cliff Burton introduced the basics of music theory to the rest of the band and had more input in the songwriting. Instead of relying strictly on fast tempos as on its debut Kill 'Em All, Metallica broadened its approach by employing acoustic guitars, extended instrumentals, and more complex harmonies.

It was the last album to feature songwriting contributions from former lead guitarist Dave Mustaine, and the first to feature contributions from his replacement, Kirk Hammett.

Label
Blackened Recordings
Genre
Metal SIDE A
Fight Fire With Fire (Remastered 2016 / Vinyl Master)
Ride The Lightning (Remastered 2016 / Vinyl Master)
For Whom The Bell Tolls (Remastered 2016 / Vinyl Master)
Fade To Black (Remastered 2016 / Vinyl Master)
Trapped Under Ice (Remastered 2016 / Vinyl Master)
Escape (Remastered 2016 / Vinyl Master)
Creeping Death (Remastered 2016 / Vinyl Master)
The Call Of Ktulu (Remastered 2016 / Vinyl Master)

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