Thrash metal icons Metallica have officially announced the upcoming release of Reload (Remastered), a comprehensive new edition of their seventh studio album. Scheduled for release on June 26 via Blackened Recordings, the project promises to be a definitive collection for fans of the band’s late-90s era.

Originally released in 1997, Reload achieved quadruple-platinum status and solidified the band’s commercial dominance with enduring hits such as ‘Fuel’, ‘The Unforgiven II’, and ‘The Memory Remains’. This new remastering effort was helmed by Reuben Cohen at Lurssen Mastering, with Greg Fidelman overseeing the production to ensure the sonic integrity of the original recordings is preserved while enhanced for modern listeners.

The standard release will be available in various formats, including 180g 2LP, a Wal-Mart exclusive 140g 2LP, CD, 3CD Expanded Edition, cassette, and digital. However, the centerpiece of the announcement is the Reload Remastered Limited Edition Deluxe Box Set. This numbered, one-time pressing is a massive 15-CD set that dives deep into the band’s archives, offering unheard extra riffs, B-sides, rarities, and extensive live material.

Beyond the audio, the box set includes four DVDs featuring live footage, television appearances, and behind-the-scenes content documenting the band’s travels to Seoul. Collectors will also find a wealth of memorabilia, including a pack of 13 Rorschach Test cards, an 11×17 ‘Gimme Fuel’ poster, a Pushead print, a 10-pack of guitar and bass picks, lyric sheets, and three laminated tour passes. The set is rounded out by a deluxe 128-page book filled with never-before-seen photos and personal stories from those who were present during the album’s creation.

This announcement follows a busy period for the band. Metallica recently expanded their residency at the Las Vegas Sphere, extending dates into March 2027 due to overwhelming demand. Drummer Lars Ulrich has expressed excitement about the residency, noting that the venue offers a unique opportunity to reinvent the band’s live interaction with their audience.

In addition to their residency, the band is preparing for a UK and European tour later this year, including two major nights at the London Stadium in July. They are also scheduled for a special two-night stint at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville to mark the venue’s 25th anniversary, with support from Suicidal Tendencies and Spiritbox.

As the band continues to look forward—with guitarist Kirk Hammett recently revealing he has hundreds of new riffs ready for future projects—Reload (Remastered) serves as a significant look back at a pivotal chapter in their storied career.