Metallica is teasing something significant this Thursday.
The band recently launched a new website, MetallicaXX.com, that so far contains only a countdown clock that will reach all zeroes on October 10.
While the band has provided no additional details, speculation in the Metalli-verse is in full swing. It seems likely that "XX" is a reference to Roman numerals for 20, leading many to wonder if the band is preparing an anniversary rerelease of its original orchestral live album, S&M, which was released in November of 1999.
In September, Metallica opened San Francisco's new Chase Center with two new symphony-backed concerts, dubbed S&M2, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the earlier live album. A concert film documenting the shows premieres in theaters on Wednesday, October 9.
Shortly after the two September concerts, the band canceled a number of upcoming tour dates while front man James Hetfield headed back to a rehabilitation program to re-address his addiction issues.
In a statement, the band members expressed solidarity with Hetfield and pledged to schedule shows in the city's affected by the cancellations as soon as possible.
To find an S&M2 screening in New York, Los Angeles or London, go here.
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