In a recent interview with Radioactive MikeZ on the 96.7 KCAL-FM show Wired In The Empire, AVATAR’s charismatic vocalist, Johannes Eckerström, dropped a bombshell that will resonate with metalheads everywhere: 'There is no AVATAR without METALLICA.' This bold statement isn’t just a nod to influence—it’s a deep dive into the roots of AVATAR’s sound and the unexpected twists of fate that shaped their journey. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating: Eckerström reveals that AVATAR’s drummer, John Alfredsson, owes his musical awakening to a skiing accident at age 12. Bedridden and armed with a stack of CDs, John discovered METALLICA’s Load and Reload, sparking a passion that led to the band’s formation. 'That whole butterfly effect—it’s truly John’s shitty skiing and the CDs he got because of it,' Eckerström quips, highlighting how small moments can lead to monumental outcomes.
As AVATAR prepares to open for METALLICA at four European stadium shows in May/June 2024, Eckerström shares his mix of excitement and apprehension. 'What I’m looking forward to the most? That big-ass round stage,' he admits. But it’s not just about the spectacle—it’s about the challenge of commanding such a massive space. 'How do I focus with all those people behind me without running around like crazy?' he wonders, revealing the technical and mental hurdles of performing on such a scale. And while he jokes that James Hetfield might not have tips for a mic-stand-free vocalist, he’s hopeful about METALLICA’s reputation for supporting openers. 'They’ve made a point of spending time with bands like us, and that says something,' he reflects, praising their humility despite their legendary status.
Eckerström’s admiration for METALLICA goes beyond their music. 'They know where they come from,' he says, citing their willingness to play Lemmy’s birthday party or open for BLACK SABBATH. 'That part is so inspiring to me.' But here’s where it gets controversial: when asked to choose between Ride the Lightning and Master of Puppets, Eckerström makes a case for Ride the Lightning—not just as an album, but as a masterclass in what makes music truly heavy. 'For Whom the Bell Tolls,' he argues, 'is the heaviest song ever recorded,' citing its raw riffs and primal energy. But is he right? Or do bands like MESHUGGAH and NEUROSIS take the crown? Let’s debate that in the comments.
AVATAR’s latest album, Don’t Go In The Forest, dropped on October 31 via Black Waltz Records, and the band is hitting the road this fall with ALIEN WEAPONRY and SPIRITWORLD, followed by tours supporting IRON MAIDEN and METALLICA. With Eckerström’s thoughtful reflections and AVATAR’s relentless energy, it’s clear they’re not just opening for legends—they’re carving their own path, one inspired by the giants who came before them. What do you think? Can AVATAR live up to the legacy of METALLICA, or are they forging a sound all their own? Sound off below!
