In a recent Metal Hammer interview, Jerry Cantrell of Alice In Chains sparked excitement by discussing the possibility of collaborating with Metallica’s James Hetfield.
When asked about creating an album with Hetfield, Cantrell hinted at being open to the idea. “James and I have kind of talked about it,” he shared. “We’ve 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 ended up playing guitars in the kitchen and on the porch. It’s something I’d really be curious about, even just writing a song together.”
However, Cantrell acknowledged the challenges of making such a collaboration happen. “As for whether it’d turn into something more, well, he’s got a pretty demanding day job—ha ha! So I’d totally understand if it never comes to be.”
Cantrell also expressed his deep respect for Hetfield, calling him one of the greatest rock and metal frontmen ever. “What makes James so incredible is his physical presence,” Cantrell explained. “No one else commands respect and attention the way he does, and it’s never self-seeking or egocentric.”
He added, “James is all about the music, the fun, the celebration, and the connection with the fans. That’s inspiring, especially considering how long he’s been at the top of his game and his constant pursuit of deeper meaning.”
While fans might dream of a Cantrell-Hetfield project, Alice In Chains appears focused on their own endeavors. Frontman William DuVall recently shared, “We’ve got some work lined up for next year—some announced, most not. There will be more news on that soon. I’m definitely up for making more records, whether with Alice, solo, or with other bands.”
Meanwhile, Cantrell is gearing up to promote his upcoming solo album, I Want Blood, with a North American tour beginning January 31 in Niagara Falls. With so much on the horizon, fans of both Cantrell and Hetfield can only hope their paths cross creatively in the future.
