Rockers Metallica have been dealt a devastating blow - their long-awaited album Death Magnetic has been leaked online, more than a week before its scheduled release date.

The heavy rockers have been gearing up for the release on September 12 of what will be their first studio album for five years.

But their new songs have already emerged online after the disc was sold early to fans in a French record shop, reports Blabbermouth.net.

However, Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich insists the band is unfazed by the move, because they aren't too concerned about losing CD sales.

Speaking to radio station Live 105 on Tuesday, he says, "Listen, we're 10 days from release. I mean, from here, we're golden.

"If this thing leaks all over the world today or tomorrow, happy days. Happy days. Trust me. Ten days out and it hasn't quote-unquote fallen off the truck yet? Everybody's happy. It's 2008 and it's part of how it is these days, so it's fine. We're happy."

- Metallica Gallery

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)