METALLICA’s Webstore Features Artwork by Lars Ulrich’s Late Father

METALLICA’s official webstore is now offering “Still In Play,” a collection of visual art by Torben Ulrich, a multidisciplinary artist and tennis legend who was also the father of METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich.

This distinctive collection, inspired by Torben’s athletic and physical experiences and his lifelong interest in philosophy, poetry, music, and spirituality, showcases over 120 images of his rice-paper paintings and prints. The artwork is accompanied by three new essays, including one written by Torben himself.

All net profits from the sale of this book will be donated to All Within My Hands, METALLICA’s non-profit organization dedicated to supporting workforce education, figҺting hunger, and other critical community services.

Torben Ulrich passed away last December at the age of 95. Lars announced his father’s deаth in a heartfelt social media post on December 20, 2023, praising his father’s adventurous spirit, unique experiences, and contributions to various fields. He wrote, “Torben Ulrich: 1928-2023. 95 years of adventures, unique experiences, curiosity, pushing boundaries, challenging the status quo, tennis, music, art, writing… and quite a bit of Danish contrarian attitude. Thank you endlessly! I love you dad.”

Ten days later, Lars thanked everyone for their messages of support, expressing his appreciation for the outpouring of condolences and stories about his father’s impact on many lives. He shared, “As you can imagine, it’s been quite a surreal time, so let me sаy from the heart how much I truly appreciate every single thought, sentiment, feeling, and emotion you’ve kindly taken the time to share with me. It means so, so, so much… Thank you, thank you, thank you…”

Torben, often described as METALLICA’s biggest fan and critic, was known for his candid feedback. Famously, during the writing sessions for the 2003 “St. Anger” album, he told Lars, “I would delete that,” a moment captured in the “Some Kind Of Monster” documentary. He elaborated, “For me, it doesn’t cut it. It sounds like a guy shouting in some kind of echo chamber.”

In a 2005 interview, Torben reflected on Lars not pursuing a tennis career, stating he supported his son’s choice to follow his own path, whether it was tennis or music. Lars’ upbringing was rich with cultural exposure, as his father often mingled with renowned musicians and intellectuals. Lars recounted, “My dad was always around music. He was hаnging out with Sonny Rollins, Don Cherry, Dexter Gordon. Dexter Gordon was my godfather. I used to play with Neneh Cherry when we were little kids. Those types of people were always around.”

Torben Ulrich was a prominent figure in Danish culture, contributing as a poet, musician, journalist, painter, filmmaker, performer, and athlete. His work was grounded in a study of movement through spiritual, philosophical, and athletic traditions. He co-directed films and released a jazz album in 2021 titled “Oakland Moments: Cello, Voice, Reuniting (Rejoicing),” featuring cellist Lori Goldston.

In a 2017 interview, Lars discussed his father’s appreciation for METALLICA, especially their more unorthodox and daring music. Lars also shared a story about Torben’s reaction to METALLICA’s 2016 album “Hardwired… To Self-Destruct,” noting his father’s positive feedback and genuine enjoyment of the album.

Torben Ulrich’s legacy continues to influence and inspire through his diverse body of work and the heartfelt memories shared by his son, Lars. “Still In Play” stands as a testament to his creative spirit and multifaceted contributions to art and culture.