The classic rock band James Hetfield called the enemy of Metallica: “Posing up a storm”

James Hetfield said Guns N’ Roses were “part of the enemy” to Metallica, criticising Lars Ulrich for enthusiastically associating with the band. His objection was less about their music than their conduct, particularly Axl Rose’s treatment of others and his unpredictable behaviour onstage.

The article contrasts Metallica’s tightly driven riffs with Guns N’ Roses’ looser, groove-led sound, and notes Hetfield’s roots in Black Sabbath. It says Rose sometimes arrived late or missed shows during the bands’ joint tour, leaving fans with shortened performances and prompting unrest. Hetfield also told Guitar World that he initially kept “Nothing Else Matters” from his bandmates because its tender style felt unlike Metallica.