I'd agree with you except that the production on S&M is some of the worst ever, you can barely hear guitar solos above trumpet blares, etc. They were in fine form during that performance - at least, the best form they've shown since the AJFA tour. But listening to the difference between Hetfield's vocals now and what he sounded like on Ride.. is just a very sad experience.
anyway, MetallicA were good for their time. it's too bad they all died in that bus wreck in '86