Metallica Consider Internet Album Release

It looks like Lars Ulrich has learned how to embrace the internet.

Metallica's drummer told Rolling Stone that the band have unlimited options on how to release the next Metallica album — which isn't expected for four or five years, by the way.

"We're free of our record contract," said Ulrich. "We have that element of complete freedom with the next record, so we can do whatever we want. We could do an internet thing or even put it on [Rolling Stone writer] Andy Greene's record label."

This may come as a surprise to fans, especially those involved in 2000's Metallica/Napster lawsuit. Metallica sued Napster and three universities after the metal band's "I Disappear" was leaked on the file-sharing website and then played on the radio before the Mission Impossible II soundtrack, which it was included on, was released.

That's not the only problem Metallica have had with the internet. Their current album, Death Magnetic, was leaked online prior to its Sept. 12 release.

Ulrich previously told Rolling Stone that he has no problem with the internet, as long as he has control of what's on it.

"Give away stuff for free? Not a problem. The Internet? Not a problem. Who makes the decision? We make the decision. I'll give away all my shit for free. But I'll decide when and where and how."

Metallica sell downloads of recent concerts on their website and have older shows available for free. Their music is also available on iTunes.