Metallica New Album Update: We're Doing 'Some Pretty Serious Writing,' Says Lars Ulrich

Metallica New Album Update: We’re Doing ‘Some Pretty Serious Writing,’ Says Lars Ulrich

2020-12-11

Working on a new Metallica album has helped Lars Ulrich get through a difficult 2020.

Story by Charles Ken, photo by Ken Settle

Lars Ulrich says working on new Metallica music has helped him get through a difficult 2020

Four years have passed since Metallica unleashed their latest studio album, 2016’s blockbuster “Hardwired…to Self-Destruct.” Now, it appears the metal band is finally ready to lay down some new tracks, as drummer Lars Ulrich says Metallica are in the process of “some pretty serious writing.”

The drummer discussed the status of new Metallica tunes during an interview with folk musician Phoebe Bridgers for Rolling Stone. In the interview, Ulrich said writing new music has been a savior for him during this difficult year with the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and no touring for musicians.

“We’re three, four weeks into some pretty serious writing,” Ulrich said, adding that the “pandemics, fires, politics, race problems” and just looking at the “state of the world — it’s so easy just to so fall into a depressive state. But writing always makes me feel enthusiastic about what’s next.”

He added that “there’s an opportunity here to still make the best record, to still make a difference. To still do something that not even turns other people on, but turns me on.”

Even though Bridgers is a folk artist, she appreciates great metal music, and during the interview, she discussed her love for Metallica. She also talked about her appreciation for the band’s 2003 album, “St. Anger,” which drew some negative reviews from fans and critics.

As for when Metallica will actually release their upcoming album, the band has offered no official word on the matter. That said, many fans hope James Hetfield and company release new Metallica music in 2021, whether it’s a full album or one-off single.

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Charles Ken

Meet the expert - Charles Ken is a graduate of Michigan State University where he studied writing and history. He's a longtime music buff and covers classic rock for Audio Ink Radio. Contact him at ken@audioinkradio.com.