Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett is defending himself against fan criticism.

The band dropped a surprise new single Lux Æterna, in November, with the news that they would be releasing their 12th studio album, “72 Seasons” this month.

Since the release Hammett has been facing scrutiny over the guitar solo on the track, which many believe wasn’t his best.

Some guitarists have even come forward to rewrite their own versions, which are often more technically advanced.

In a new interview, Hammett clapped back at the idea that his solo is bad simply because it might not be difficult to play.

He explained, “Yeah, my f**king friends down the street could probably play a better solo than Lux Æterna — but what’s the point? For me, what’s appropriate is playing for the song and playing in the moment.”

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