Metallica

Friday, September 3

Back To Anger Management

It’s no wonder Metallica called their latest album St. Anger. The heavy metal gods have always had plenty to rage about but the past four years have been an especially frustrating period. The San Francisco foursome faced a series of very public challenges, which threatened their popularity and their very existence.

First, there was the image-tarnishing feud with Napster and an ensuing lawsuit against fans that downloaded their music. Then came the resignation of bassist Jason Newsted, who told The Sun Metallica was becoming “more about business than music.” The biggest crisis occurred when singer-guitarist James Hetfield checked into rehab weeks into the recording of St. Anger, spinning the band’s future into uncertainty.

If any group could survive, it’s Metallica. The band has dealt with firings, death and injury and plenty more over the years. With the help of a therapist, the quartet including Hetfield, guitarist Kirk Hammett, drummer Lars Ulrich and new bassist Robert Trujillo tamed their demons and have produced their strongest CD in years.

Joining Metallica will be Boston-based band Godsmack. Formed in 1996 and named after an Alice In Chain’s song, Godsmack gained national popularity by touring with Ozzfest and the Black Sabbath’s reunion tour.

Tickets for Metallica with special guest Godsmack at the Frank Erwin Center, Friday, September 3 at 7:30PM are $55 and $75 General Admission floor tickets and are ON SALE NOW at all Texas Box Office Outlets (includes H-E-B stores in Austin, Bastrop, Bee Caves, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Round Rock, and San Marcos; Ft. Hood Bldg. #136 and Renaissance Records in Killeen), charge-by-phone at 512/477-6060 or 1-800-982-2386 or order on-line at TexasBoxOffice.com. Convenience charges may apply. All information subject to change. The Frank Erwin Center is a smoke-free facility. Convenient parking is available within walking distance in nearby state and university lots. For more information, call 512/471-7744. The Nextel Emergency Message Center is available on the arena concourse during this event. For emergencies only call 512/845-4213. uterwincenter.com