We’ve already talked about the 56th Grammy awards and how the metal nominations actually aren’t completely skewered this year. But what about performances? Well, normally there isn’t much in the way of metal performances at the Grammys, but it looks like Metallica will be taking the stage this year for the first time since 1991. And they won’t be playing alone. It has been announced that Metallica will collaborate with none other than…concert pianist Lang Lang? Well, you can’t really be surprised about what Metallica does anymore especially in terms of collaboration (*cough* Lulu *cough*).

On the subject of performing, Metallica says:

“We’re honored to be asked back to the Grammys to perform…

“It’s been 22 years since the last time we hit the stage at the annual awards show!

“This performance will be truly special with Lang Lang, who has appeared on stages all over the world including the opening ceremonies at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, a White House state dinner, World Cup ceremonies, and the Nobel Prize concert in Stockholm among many other acclaimed appearances.

“We are also very proud that the Through The Never soundtrack has been nominated for a Grammy for ‘Best Recording Package’ and we’re hoping for another win for our friends from Turner Duckworth, who also designed the Death Magnetic art and took home the mini gramophone in 2009.”

It’s anyone’s guess what the band will play during at the show, though we wouldn’t put it past them to play “The Unforgiven III” considering, well, piano. We’re sure that’s the song all fans are clamoring to hear them play, though it could just as easily be “Nothing Else Matters”, or maybe not even one of their songs at all. The 56th Grammy Awards will take place on Sunday, January 6th.

[via Blabbermouth.net]