Metallica are giving fans the chance to hear exclusive snippets of tracks from their long awaited new album.

Mission Metallica, which launched online today (May 12th), will feature behind-the-scenes footage of the group recording the album.

Band members are also expected to give their own opinion on the record on the new website.

Metallica’s new album is due for release this autumn, shortly after their appearance at this year’s Reading and Leeds Festivals.

Last week, Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl wrote an open letter to the band telling them not to release their new LP until it was “kick-ass”.

(by Jason Gregory)