Metal Hammer magazine Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo came to the defense of Metallica 's Lars Ulrich .
Lombardo was asked if he thinks Ulrich is unfairly dismissed as a drummer by many metal fans, Lombardo said: “Absolutely. I saw Mario Duplantier [ Gojira ] recently talking about Lars, saying some kind words. I feel that Lars is an essential part of this band – anyone else wouldn’t sound the same.”
“I disapprove of people talking trash about him, I don’t like that. You have to embrace who Lars is, and his contribution to the Metallica sound. It’s such an inspiring band, and everyone wants to be as big as they are, and you can only do that by taking risks. They shocked people when they cut their hair or whatever, but it was part of their evolution and they clearly knew what they were doing. I love that they’re still out there killing it.”
In 2014, Lombardo was asked about the fact that Ulrich's drumming skills are constantly questioned. He replied: “I think Lars is a good drummer. He's a good arranger. He does arrangements… Without Lars, there would be no Metallica. So you have to give him credit for what he does for the band.”
The drummer also pointed out that in a band, every member has their role in creating the music and performing live, and each one brings their best qualities. "If you take Lars out of the equation, it won't be the same."
