I dunno - I guess I'm the lone voice of dissent...
I like the new album, tune wise...and I liked the mastering.
Now, don't get me wrong. I agree that the Loudness War has gotten out of hand, and by and large, I also prefer mixes that "breathe" naturally.
But for the type of music and the material, I think the cruddiness and compression actually works. It's very abrasive, but for Metallica, that might just be what is needed.
Just my opinion. Flame away!
