When I first learned that Jason Newsted was leaving Metallica, I was really disappointed. But after reading articles and listening to interviews, I understood...When he was asked to be in the band, Jason knew that he had to fill big shoes and it was a brand new beginning for Metallica. A new member brings new ideas, new opinions and the other should pay more attention to it. I mean, Jason had credits for 3 songs in 6 albums ! I listened to the songs that he did by himself, his potential as a songwriter hasn't been showed enough during the 14 years he shared with the band. However, he gave a new kind of energy to Metallica and the hope that they can go on... His leaving was a sign. I think Jason needs to express his ideas, which were probably not fitting in the "new Metallica image." It's a second chance for Jason to express his ideas and his talent as a performer and also as a songwriter. I'm sure he will succeed in his new projects ( Echobrain) because he will have the opportunity to prove that he can be something else than 25 % of an world-wide known band. All the best to Jason, I'm Looking forward to hear his music...

- mallory_8@hotmail.com
Mar, 2001