St Anger at 20: how Metallica's most maligned album saved their career

Metallica in 2003 holding St Anger plaques

You all know the deal with Metallica: in 2003, they were the biggest band on the planet – having taken internet file-share giants Napster to the brink of bankruptcy and changed bass players without breaking sweat – and were enjoying the enormous rewards of yet another international Number One hit album with the brutally uncompromising St Anger. 

Or, at least you think you know the deal.