Master of Puppets was released to positive reviews from music critics and has been included in several publications' best album lists. Its driving, virtuosic music and angry, political lyrics drew praise from critics outside of the metal community. The album is considered the band's strongest effort of the period, and is one of the most influential heavy metal albums. Many bands from all genres of heavy metal have covered the album's songs, including tribute albums. It was the band's last album to feature bassist Cliff Burton , who died in a bus crash during the album's promotional tour