The Truth About the Bass on Metallica’s …And Justice for All
For many fans, …And Justice for All is a milestone in Metallica’s evolution. It was ambitious in length, aggressive in scope, and heavy in lore. But behind the screaming guitars, thunderous drums, and razor-sharp riffs sits one of rock’s most notorious production puzzles: why is Jason Newsted’s bass almost inaudible in the final mix?
Over the decades, producer Flemming Rasmussen has revisited this question again and again, and in recent interviews he remains as baffled as ever. This is the story behind “you forgot the bass,” the mix decisions, the interpersonal tensions, and how one album’s low end became a legend on its own.
From Tracking to Mix: Rasmussen’s Shock
When …And Justice for All was being recorded in early 1988, Rasmussen joined a project already underway. After listening to the band’s so-called “mix,” he turned to Lars Ulrich and bluntly said: “You forgot the bass.”
Lars and James Hetfield reportedly ordered engineers to turn Jason Newsted’s bass “just audible” and then asked for it to be dropped three decibels lower. Rasmussen, to this day, says he never fully understood why. If you want to relive the album in all its raw power.
Theories, Tensions and Intentions
Some believe the decision was a subtle way of testing or even punishing Newsted. Others suggest it reflected the band’s grief and discomfort after losing Cliff Burton. Another theory points to the guitar and drum tones that may have crowded the mix and left no room for bass.
Rasmussen’s Frustration and Admiration
Rasmussen has said he was “mad” when he heard the final album. Having listened to Newsted’s original bass tracks, he insists they were “f***ing brilliant” and added another layer of Metallica’s power that the world never fully got to hear. For fans who still debate the mix.
Band Perspectives and the Remaster Decision
Hetfield has denied that the decision was made to punish Jason Newsted. He pointed instead to fatigue and poor mixing choices. Lars has admitted they kept turning up everything else until the bass disappeared. Even with the 2018 reissue, Metallica chose not to remix the album. Their view was that it remains a snapshot of their history exactly as it was.
Legacy of a Bassless Classic
Ironically, the album’s lack of bass has become part of its mythology. For fans, it is a reminder that sometimes what is missing says just as much as what is present. The legacy of …And Justice for All continues to inspire musicians and fans alike. Celebrate the album’s place in history with official Metallica merchandise.
