As a huge Metallica fan myself I’d say the Black Album has more to its sound than it has to its songwriting, which is not a bad thing in itself but still a strong departure, even more so after an album like …And Justice for All. I still really enjoy it though.

Soundgarden’s career is a bit convoluted, but Badmotorfinger is my absolute favourite, the guitar sounds in there are absolutely gorgeous and the songwriting has something of this early 90s, hardboiled, Helmet-style grit that I’ve been digging, more particularly on songs like Slaves & Bulldozers or Mind Riot.

Also thank you for mentioning Fear Factory, this band never get enough credit and their first album is a classic

SEGA Megadrive

Indeed he is trying to impress you, and spending his money may be a goofy way of telling you how he feels without the need to speak.

He may not know how to word things gracefully, keep in mind that it could be stressful for him as well.

Maybe at some point telling him that you can buy your own things, and that it is not the reason why you’re spending time with him, could lead to a more constructive discussion… If you’re not afraid to have it, that is