Former METALLICA bassist Jason Newsted joined Mark Strigl on SiriusXM's Ozzy's Boneyard yesterday, May 26, for an in-depth conversation covering everything from his upcoming tour plans to his legendary years with METALLICA and beyond.

The interview featured discussion about Newsted and THE CHOPHOUSE BAND's upcoming run with BLACKBERRY SMOKE, reflections on the making of METALLICA's "The $5.98 E.P.

• Garage Days Re-Revisited" in 1986 and the "Load" album in 1996, stories involving STAIND's Mike Mushok and FAITH NO MORE's Jim Martin, and Newsted's thoughts on how heavy music fits into the broader definition of Americana.

Newsted also revealed that additional material has already been written for his heavy project NEWSTED.,When asked by Mark Strigl if he could ever see himself doing a straight-ahead metal project again, Newsted responded: "I never say never on any of that.

There's already a complete second NEWSTED album composed.",Newsted's interview covered various topics including the financial struggles of independent artists and his passion for heavy music, which remains core to his identity.

The conversation also touched upon his departure from METALLICA in 2001 and subsequent induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2009 with his former bandmates.

JASON NEWSTED & THE CHOPHOUSE BAND will play eight headlining dates in cities including Northampton, Albany, Alexandria, Grand Rapids, Knoxville and more (full dates below).

The group will also support iconic Atlanta country rock outfit BLACKBERRY SMOKE for 10 shows in July.

This 18-date run will kick off on July 1 at Northampton's Iron Horse Music Hall, and visit major markets across the South, Midwest, and East Coast, and conclude with a two-night stand at the legendary Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee on July 24-25.