The raw production and total lack of guitar solos was seen by many as too much of a departure from the thrash icons' previous efforts. But Rock says both Led Zeppelin hero Page and White Stripes mainman White are fans. Page made his comments when the pair bumped into each other at a hotel, while White's praise came at a film screening.

Rock tells Talk Is Jericho (via Blabbermouth): "I know Jimmy. He got up and walked over to me, gave me a big hug, and said, 'It's great to see you, I love the St Anger album.'

"I was at the premiere, and Jack White came over. He says, 'I'm Jack White.' I said, 'I know.' He says, 'That's my favourite Metallica album.' So I'm okay with those two."