Metallica may have allegedly stolen the cover art from the fictional comedic metal band Spinal Tap . The all-black cover of Metallica's self-titled 1991 album, better known as the Black Album , bears a resemblance to the cover of the 1984 soundtrack to the mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap .
In an exclusive interview with Metal Hammer , vocalist and guitarist David St. Hubbins , portrayed by actor Michael McKean , addressed the subject in a relaxed manner. St. Hubbins downplayed any resentment, despite the two bands having had a somewhat tense encounter, documented in the 1992 film, 'A Year And A Half In The Life Of Metallica'.
Asked about the similarity in the album artwork, St. Hubbins reveals Metallica's official version: “We’ve already discussed this,” he said. “They say, ‘It’s a tribute!’ Or at least Lars said so. We heard James muttering something like, ‘We just didn’t have an idea.’ But we’ll take their word for it.”
Far from criticizing, the Spinal Tap frontman didn't hold back in praising the band, highlighting their longevity and intellect. "They're lovely guys and very intelligent – and they're in great shape. They could certainly be rocking the next millennium – or Metallicum, I guess you could call it that," St. Hubbins joked.
Metallica in action: Lars Ulrich's participation in Spinal Tap II
The good relationship between the bands was solidified by drummer Lars Ulrich in the recently released 'Spinal Tap II: The End Continues'. The musician makes an appearance in the film, where he politely declines the invitation to play at Spinal Tap's reunion show.
St. Hubbins referenced this moment, praising Ulrich's courtesy: “We interacted a bit with Lars; we panicked about the drummers while planning the show in New Orleans, but he was very kind in saying no.” The guitarist took the opportunity to take a jab at other musicians: “Some 'no's can be very rude, like simply hanging up the phone in our face, as one, two, or maybe nine other drummers did.”
'Spinal Tap II' premiered on September 12th to mixed to positive reviews. In addition to Michael McKean, the original cast is also present, including:
Christopher Guest (who plays guitarist Nigel Tufnell), Harry Shearer (bassist Derek Smalls), and Rob Reiner (fictional documentary filmmaker Marty DiBergi).
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