Metallica Just Bought a Record Pressing Plant

In their latest move to take over the music industry, Metallica have announced that they purchased the majority interest in Furnace Record Pressing, a “leading provider of high-quality vinyl records and related services.” Acquiring the plant outright is just the next step in a longstanding relationship during which Furnace has already pressed five million Metallica records.

From Furnace founder Eric Astor:

“Building Furnace into the dedicated and experienced family of experts that it is today has been a huge effort, but immensely gratifying. Knowing our long-term future is secured while also being better able to take advantage of growth opportunities is really exciting for every member of the Furnace staff.” Ali Miller, chief operating officer of Furnace, added: “We have found ideal partners in METALLICA. They want us to continue our customer driven focus. To that end we look forward to providing even greater capacity and service to each of our customers in the future.”

Adds Lars Ulrich:

“We couldn’t be more happy to take our partnership with Furnace — and Eric, Ali and Mark specifically — to the next level. Their indie spirit, the passion they have for their craft… culturally we’re kindred souls.” 

James Hetfield also commented abut his excitement, restating Metallica’s excitement and dedication to getting high-quality vinyl to fans.

“Furnace has been great to Metallica and more importantly to our fans. This deepened relationship between Metallica and Furnace ensures that fans of vinyl everywhere, particularly our Fifth Members, will have continued access to high quality records in the future.”

There are plenty of details left to be seen, like what will happen to other bands on the pressing schedule. The press release specifically notes that the acquisition will help keep vinyl from Metallica and bands in the “Metallica family” in circulation but does doing that mean that other bands are at the mercy of Hetfield and company? I guess we’ll find out.