A bit of controversy recently flared up over Canadian Metallica tribute band Sandman, who were recently served a cease and desist letter (see below) by the band’s legal team due to the similarities of their logo to Metallica‘s. Metallica themselves have since had that letter tossed out, claiming it was made without their consent. They said in a statement:
“We hear that a Canadian Metallica tribute band is a little upset with us and with a little digging figured out why. It turns out that a certain letter was delivered to the band Sandman that neither we nor our management were aware of until it surfaced online. Lucky for us the band was kind enough to post it for us to see, and it turns out that we have a very overzealous attorney who sent this letter without our knowledge.
We have a long history of not only enjoying tribute bands, but we started as one. Heck, we even recorded a two-disc album of covers! We will always remember those days and continue to enjoy tribute bands, even inviting them to support us on various tours over the years.
Sandman should file the letter in the trash, we’ve spoken to Joe Di Taranto of the band and it’s all good. Keep doing what you’re doing… we totally support you! And in the meantime our attorney can be found at SFO catching a flight to go permanently ice fishing in Alaska.”
Sandman guitarist Joe Di Taranto told Rollingstone.com that he recieved a personal call from Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich yesterday, January 13th. He said of the conversation:
“He gave me and the band his full blessing to continue on as we were. They want us to continue paying tribute to Metallica with their full blessing and approval. We will continue to fly the Metallica flag, loud and proud!!”
