I still think Metallica is the pinnacle of metal. They are talented, have a diversity of song styles, etc. And when I say "Metallica" I mean up to and included AJFA. I think a lot of the "power metal" bands today don't even compare. I mean, its like these bands play exactly like Manowar, but without any of the things that made them funny or interesting.

Metal from the 80's and early 90's is almost 100% better than anything after that. Play Testament's "New Order" and then hear something by, like, say, Hammerfall or someone. Doesn't even compare.