The world's biggest-selling heavy metal group Metallica will unveil their latest album next month, their website said on Tuesday, in what promises to be the biggest release this year for hard-rock fans.

Following up on their last album 'St Anger', released in 2003 to largely disappointing reviews, the new record 'Death Magnetic' is to be distributed worldwide on 12 September.

"Without doubt, the biggest metal event this year is going to be the release of Metallica’s new album," said magazine Metal Hammer in June in a positive pre-release review of six tracks on the album.

"Initial impression is that this is an album that's going to get our blood chugging."

The latest release will be the ninth studio album from the US rockers, who are famous for their fast-tempo musicianship and instrumentals, making them leaders in the thrash metal scene.

AFP