Do you miss the independent record stores where you meet someone behind the counter who really knew about all the latest albums and bands? I do. Most of these stores are now closed because big chains have pressed them on price. Lars and James could drive long distances to go to such stores as they collected all British heavy metal albums they could find before they started Metallica.

The band will now make a special appearance at Rasputin Records in Mountain View, California, to mark the official celebration of all independent record stores. With the collapse of Tower Records and the many other chains, this is an attempt by Metallica to recognize and support the independent stores.

400 Wristbands will be issued and the store will open at 10 a.m. on April 19th. On Metallica.com the band said: "Come down and say 'Hi,' bring stuff for us to sign, and in the spirit of supporting your independent record store and maybe you'll do a little shopping while you're there."