The sound is linked to Metallica’s 2003 album St. Anger and drummer Lars Ulrich’s distinctive snare tone throughout the record. The drum was recorded with the snare wires disengaged, contributing to its ringing, metallic character. The production choice became one of the album’s most discussed features among listeners and musicians. Short samples later circulated in music jokes, reaction edits, and drum-production comparisons. It remains recognizable because its sharp clang differs dramatically from the tighter snare sound commonly heard in heavy metal recordings.