METALLICA, MEGADETH, SLAYER and ANTHRAX will appear on the same stage for the first time ever in the UK when the 'Big Four' headline 'Sonisphere' on Friday, July 8.

The four titans of thrash Metal have been announced as headlines and they join Biffy Clyro and SLIPKNOT on top of the bill at the Knebworth based festival.

The four bands will each play separate sets with METALLICA closing the night, as per their European tour together earlier this summer which yielded the 'Big Four' Live DVD.

"Always excited to do 'Big 4' shows" says SLAYER's Kerry King. "Now England is in line to be devastated by this heavy Metal powerhouse! Can't F***ing wait!!!"

MEGADETH mainman Dave Mustaine states; "The 'Big Four' Concerts are the most important, most exciting event to happen in the history of live concerts in our genre, and perhaps the entire music industry. I am glad to be a part of this enormous celebration of thrash, speed, and good ole heavy Metal!"

"OH YEAH!!!" proclaims ANTHRAX drummer Charlie Benante. "Here we Come England! The 'Big 4' BABY! Can't wait to Get Metal Thrashing Mad for you Thrashers!"

ANTHRAX bandmate, guitarist Scott Ian concurs "Merry early Xmas present for us! more 'Big 4' shows!!! The shows we did together with our brothers in METALLICA, SLAYER and MEGADETH were not only the high point of 2010, but also some of the best shows ANTHRAX have ever played. Getting to share this with our friends in the UK will be amazing."

Source: www.PlanetRock.Com