Metallica have surprised fans with a stripped-down video rendition of song “Blackened” from their homes while in isolation amid the COVID-19 outbreak.

Posting to their social media channels, the legendary rockers dropped the video along with the comment:  “Here’s a little something we cooked up over the last few days. Hope you’re all safe & sound. Have a great weekend.”

The performance features the band in split-screen as they record the new rendition of “Blackened”, which featured on Metallica’s 1988 album ...And Justice for All.

According to Consequence of Sound, the socially-distant show marked the first time entire group has performed together publically since frontman James Hetfield went to rehab for addiction in September last year, which forced Metallica to postpone their 2019 tour dates for Australia.

While the band have rescheduled tour dates for their South American tour, which kicks off December 4th in Buenos Aires, Argentina, we’re yet to hear new dates for their Aussie shows – though Metallica have insisted we won’t miss out Down Under.

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“Finally, to our friends in Australia and New Zealand, please know that we have not forgotten and you’re still in our hearts and minds. We will make it to your part of the world as soon as we can. We promise!” the band noted in a statement.

Until then, Metallica is filling our musical cravings with a series of online concerts, called Metallica Mondays, which will see the band stream full live sets from across their expansive career.

“While we’re all doing our part and staying home, we find ourselves missing live music,” Metallica said in a statement.

“So how about we dive back into a few of our favourite shows at a socially responsible distance? Not to sound too cheesy, but now more than ever, we’re in this together, and staying connected is how we’ll get through it. With that in mind, we’re bringing a series of live Metallica shows right to your couch!”

Check out ‘Blackened 2020’ by Metallica:

YouTube VideoPlay

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