While Empire State Bastard prepares to release their new album, ‘Rivers of Heresy,’ and begin their upcoming European tour in November, Dave Lombardo recently spoke with Metal Hammer. When asked if he thought it was unjust for certain Metallica fans to disregard Lars Ulrich, he said: “Absolutely! I recently overheard Mario Duplantier speaking positively about Lars. Lars, in my opinion, is a crucial member of the band; without him, it just won’t sound the same. I chastise those who gossip about him; I don’t appreciate it. “You have to accept Lars as he is and his contribution to Metallica’s sound.” The drummer added his thoughts on the band: “They’re such an inspiring band, and everyone wants to be as big as they are, and the only way to do that is to take risks.” When they cut their hair or anything, it shocked people, but it was part of their progress, and they clearly knew what they were doing.
I love that they’re still kicking a** out there.” Returning to Lombardo’s mention of Mario Duplantier, the Gojira drummer’s thoughts on Ulrich were brought up during a March interview with Craig Reynolds’ Downbeat Podcast. Duplantier stated in that interview that Metallica’s member deserved greater appreciation because what he accomplished was ‘very distinctive.’ Reynolds then remarked how the 60-year-old musician was still playing the band’s more physically demanding tunes. The Gojira member responded by explaining: “It’s very physical, and what he brought to the table back in the day – you know, playing without shirts and doing all these faces and standing up behind the kits – is almost more important than the rest.” He went on to explain what distinguished Ulrich: “I was fascinated by the personality on stage as a child.” It wasn’t about the technique, you understand? ‘Is it cramped? Is he [performing well]?’ I didn’t mind. I just noticed someone standing behind the drums. A real individual.” Dave Lombardo’s most recent interview may be found here.
