Metallica’s 1991 self-titled album, commonly called The Black Album, was released in the United States on August 12, 1991.
The record was Metallica’s fifth studio album and followed ...And Justice for All, released in 1988. Elektra Records issued it during a major shift in the band’s sound, moving from the intricate thrash approach of earlier records toward slower, heavier, and more streamlined songs.
The release date came shortly before the album’s enormous commercial breakthrough. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, making it Metallica’s first album to reach the top of that chart. The record remained at number one for four consecutive weeks and ultimately became the band’s best-selling album.
The album is widely called The Black Album because of its nearly black cover, but its official title is simply Metallica. The August 12 date refers to the original 1991 release, not later remastered editions, anniversary box sets, or digital reissues.