The record was snubbed by all but 3% of Metallica's fanbase, selling 15,000 copies during its first week of release compared to 490,000 for 2008′s Death Magnetic. Even their much-maligned 2003 album St Anger sold 418,000 in its first week. Reed admitted he'd had death threats following the launch.

But Hammet tells The Verge: "I think Lulu is some of the best stuff we've ever done. The song Junior Dad moves me to tears. And working with Lou was such a cool, unique and special thing for us.