Library of Congress Selects Metallica's "Master of Puppets" for Historical Preservation
Each year the Library of Congress selects twenty-five artistic pieces considered "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant" for historical preservation. This year, the Libray surprised observers by selecting its first ever heavy metal recording: "Master of Puppets," a hugely influential album by Metallica issued in 1986.
"Master of Puppets," the third album from Metallica and its first on a major record label, "shows the group moving away from its thrash metal history and reputation and exploring new ideas," the Library of Congress said in a press release.
"Thrash, a reaction against the pop metal of the early 1980s, aimed to renew metal by emphasizing speed and aggression," continued the Library.
"Master of Puppets" became the first thrash metal album to go platinum, eventually selling over 6 million copies. The album was also the last to feature original Metallica bassist Cliff Burton who died in a bus crash during its accompanying tour.
In addition to "Master of Puppets," the Library of Congress selected several jazz recordings and a 1947 speech from secretary of state George Marshall about the what came to be known as "the Marshall Plan," which was the groundwork for American led reconstruction efforts in post-WWII Europe.
