Following yesterday’s revelations that METALLICA had threatened serious legal action against a group of their own fans who have been performing covers of the metal band’s music. SANDMAN, also known as “Canada’s Tribute To Metallica” were served with the 41 page cease and desist letter right before their very own gig, but now according to rollingstone.com, METALLICA have apologised for their ‘overzealous attorney.’
“We hear that a Canadian Metallica tribute band is a little upset with us and with a little digging, figured out why,” the band tells Rolling Stone. “It turns out that a certain letter was delivered to the band Sandman that neither we nor our management were aware of until it surfaced online. Lucky for us, the band was kind enough to post it for us to see, and it turns out that we have a very overzealous attorney who sent this letter without our knowledge.”
The group pointed to “Garage Inc.”, their 1998 covers album, as proof of their support of groups covering other artists’ work. “We have a long history of not only enjoying tribute bands, but we started as one,” the group says. “Heck, we even recorded a two-disc album of covers! We will always remember those days and continue to enjoy tribute bands, even inviting them to support us on various tours over the years.”
Guitarist Joe Di Taranto says that Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich called him on Wednesday to apologize and quash the situation. “He gave me and the band his full blessing to continue on as we were,” says the musician. “They want us to continue paying tribute to Metallica with their full blessing and approval. We will continue to fly the Metallica flag, loud and proud!!” The band says they will continue using their logo with impunity.
As for the original cease and desist order, Metallica has rescinded the letter. “Sandman should file the letter in the trash,” the band says. “Keep doing what you’re doing … we totally support you! And in the meantime, our attorney can be found at SFO catching a flight to go permanently ice fishing in Alaska.”
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Metal Shock Finland (World Assault ) 
Reblogged this on Mile High Shred and commented:
Very cool to see that Metallica was not in favor of sending a Metallica cover band a cease and desist. It was just their attorney who acted without consent from the band.