In a recent interview for the new issue of Metal Hammer, Alice In Chains’ Jerry Cantrell talked about a possible collaboration with Metallica’s James Hetfield.
When asked about the possibility of making an album with Hetfield, Cantrell subtly hinted that he is open to the idea. “James and I have talked about it, kind of. We never had a formal conversation but I’ve jammed with him at Kirk [Hammett]’s place. I’ve even spent a night or two at his house, and we’ve ended up with guitars in the kitchen and on the porch. It’s something I’d be really curious about, even to just write a song with him.”
Cantrell added, “As for whether it’d turn into something more than that, he’s got a pretty demanding day job. Ha ha! So I’d understand if it never comes to be.”
The guitarist’s admiration for Hetfield is quite big. Earlier, he said that James Hetfield is one of the greatest rock and metal frontmen of all time. “What makes James such a great frontman is his physical presence,” the guitarist explained. “Nobody else commands the same kind of respect and attention without it being self-seeking or egocentric.”
“He’s all about the music; all about the fun and the celebration and the connection with the fans. And that to me is really inspiring. Especially because he’s done this for so long, and he’s been at the top of his game for so long and he continues to search for a deeper meaning,” Cantrell added.
While a collaboration between these two iconic figures from their genres would be exciting, Alice In Chains seems to be focused on something else. “I know Alice [in Chains] has got some work we’re looking at doing next year. Some of it has been announced, but most of it hasn’t. But we’ll see,” frontman William DuVall said earlier.
He added, “I think there’s going be more announcements forthcoming on that. I’m up for making more records and things, whether it’s my own, or other bands, I’d like to do that.”
Cantrell will be promoting his upcoming solo album, ‘I Want Blood,’ across North America this year. The tour kicks off on January 31 in Niagara Falls.
