September 22, 2010 (Sampurn Wire):Dave Higgins of Triple M, Australia's rock station recently spoke to Metallica's Lars Ulrich last right before the band went onto play a show at the Rod Laver Arena's stage as a part of its massive Australian Tour.

The departure of long serving bassist Jason Newsted and his replacement Robert Trujillo naturally came up to which Ulrich said that Jason was an insane musician as well as an immensely dedicated chap. He feels that the band never absolutely utilized Jason's capabilities.

He says that the band did never take advantage of Jason's musical know how and perhaps that is one reason that had caused him to drift away from the heavy metal icons.

Lars adds that his departure, however brought the remaining three members closer and Rob Trujillo, he feels fits the band perfectly. Rob's personality gels with the band in the most organic and natural manner. Thus, Lars says that the band are more than happy with Rob, since he has enough creative space and doesn't play in a forced manner. Reportedly, long time producer Bob Rock held bass duties for the band in Jason's absence. The band released 'St.Anger' that went on to win them a Grammy Award.

Jason quit Metallica in the month of February in 2001 citing a lot of reasons; one of them being his role to play more.

-- Sampurn Wire