Austin360.com reports that Austin Powell of The Austin Chronicle says he's received confirmation from the METALLICA camp that the metal superstars will indeed be playing Austin's legendary venue Stubb's on Friday, March 20 at 10:00 p.m. as part of the Guitar Hero: Metallica showcase during the Texas capital's annual South By Southwest (SXSW) music and media festival.

Roland Swenson of SXSW was not too happy with Powell's "Off the Record" scoop, however. "He didn't get it from us," Swenson told Austin360.com. "We were told not to confirm anything and we're sticking by that."

Stubb's is an outdoor venue that holds only 2,100. South By Southwest badges and wristbands will be getting priority for entry. There will also be a line for those willing to pay cover, but admission will be based on space availability.

Powell said he got the confirmation two days ago and notified SXSW organizers that he planned to print it, but never heard back from them.

A METALLICA appearance would make sense since the highly anticipated Guitar Hero: Metallica arrives in stores on March 29 for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 platforms. The PS2 and Wii editions of the game will most likely follow in early May. The game contains 28 METALLICA tracks, along with tunes from FOO FIGHTERS, ALICE IN CHAINS and others.