Following thirty-seven years since the monumental band formed, drummer Lars Ulrich has recently stated that Metallica anticipates that they will keep the band going for another 20-25 years. In an Interview with Philadelphia radio station 93.3 WMMR Rocks!, the musician revealed that he and the other bandmates have no intention of slowing down.
Facing criticism
Anticipating the band moving past the half-a-century mark, Ulrich reassured fans that unlike many of the bands that are deviating away from the spotlight, the pioneers of Thrash Metal won’t be slowing down any time soon.
Describing the band as “energised and rejuvenated”, any rumours regarding the imminent fate of the band were subdued. This comes in the light of criticism over their 2016 album "Hardwired… To Self-Destruct", where the band faced backlash from both fans and critics from the likes of Pitchfork, Spin and Metal Injection - publications which claimed supposed ‘laziness’ from members.
According to the drummer, all members of Metallica are on the same wavelength regarding the certainty of their careers. Claiming they all want to continue making Music and touring for a ‘long time’, he shunned any expectations for the band to have a hiatus after they finish their current tour in August 2019.
Retirement isn't on the cards
As for future collaborations from Metallica, there is still an air of uncertainty amongst band members. Despite stating that an upcoming retirement isn't on the cards, Ulrich admitted that any announcements over the next supposed 25 years have not yet taken any solid form. In response to his claims of wanting to continue for almost three more decades, he proclaimed “I don't know what it's gonna look like [or] what it's gonna sound like”.
Speaking about the future of the band, the conversation also diverged towards a reflection on the past. Upon being asked what advice he'd give to his younger self, he recalls his short-sightedness in youth. Discussing how the band initially only thought of the immediate future, he hints as to why the band now looks ahead to their future.
This reflection comes in light of Metallica’s announcement they are releasing a reissue of their 1998 album …And Justice For All, due November 2. The release comes in the form of CD, 3CD expanded edition, 2 x 180g LP, cassette, on digital platforms and a limited edition deluxe box set.
The reissue of …And Justice For All is available online and in-store from Friday
Concert Dates and remaining tickets for the Worldwired Tour are available on Metallica’s website now.
