The drummer of Category 7 and Shadows Fall (and ex-Overkill) recalls his memories of a Metallica concert in 1989, and defends Lars Ulrich despite criticism.
Lars has always been cordial and “a great guy”
Podcast guest Troy Story: A Podcast For The Collar CityJason Bittner — drummer known for his work with Shadows Fall, Overkill and Category 7 — shared his memories of Metallica and Queensrÿche's 1989 concert at the RPI Field House in Troy, New York. Discussing this significant evening, he also defended Lars Ulrich, often criticized for his technical performances behind the drums.
Bittner, who attended the concert as a 19-year-old student, acknowledged that Queensrÿche particularly impressed that evening: “I found them excellent. I even thought they were better than Metallica that night. And I feel bad saying that, because I received a message from Lars recently, through one of my groupmates, where he was sending me his regards.”
He went on to acknowledge that Lars wasn't always the most precise drummer on stage, but made a point of emphasizing his humanity: “We all know that Lars was not the most precise technician night after night in those days. In 1989, as a kid I might have thought I had a few too many beers before going on stage because I couldn't hear all my favorite double pedal parts.”
“People have treated him so badly over the years… But in my 30-year career, every interaction I've had with Lars has been great. He was always nice, never pretentious, never a rock star in the bad sense of the word. So I remain in favor of Lars.”
Also read: Baikal: French ambient Post-Metal hits hard with Cardinal
A memorable concert and youthful memories
During this episode, Jason Bittner also returns to other topics related to Metallica and the “Big 4” of Thrash Metal. Bittner also discusses his experience as a drummer for world-famous bands and his current work with Category 7, as well as the recent reformation of Shadows Fall. The episode is available below!
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