Metallica bassist: New album comparable to classics

Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo told Greece's Rock Hard magazine last week that the band's upcoming album will feature elements of two of the group's most popular records, 1986's Master of Puppets and 1991's self-titled "black album." When asked to describe the new album's sound, Trujillo said, "I would say that this album is dynamic, heavy, groovin' and you'll probably be excited to know that there will be guitar solos on it!...For me, this album incorporates part of the dynamic and character of Master of Puppets, as well as the melodic style that people liked in the 'black album,' as far as the melodies are concerned."

Trujillo's comments echoed those of lead guitarist Kirk Hammett, who told Austrian website Krone.at that he thinks the new CD is "the best album we've put out in, say, 15 years."

Metallica has been working on the follow-up to 2003's St. Anger since earlier this spring. An early 2008 release is planned.

The new disc will mark Trujillo's recording debut with Metallica. He joined the group after it completed St. Anger.

The bassist also told Rock Hard that it was unlikely the band would play new material on its upcoming European festival run, which begins on June 28th.