Silver Lining Music recently announced the upcoming release of No Life ‘Til Leather – A Tribute To Metallica’s Kill ‘Em All, arriving on November 14. The highly anticipated compilation features a powerhouse lineup of rock and metal artists paying homage to Metallica’s groundbreaking debut album.
The second single to be revealed from the album is a standout cover of Metallica’s legendary instrumental track “(Anesthesia) – Pulling Teeth”, performed by former Megadeth bassist David Ellefson.
Ellefson shared his excitement about the project, saying: “It was a total honor to be asked to participate in this album, especially to record the iconic bass composition “(Anesthesia) – Pulling Teeth” by the one and only Cliff Burton [late Metallica bassist]. I was able to borrow one of Cliff’s Aria Pro signature bass guitars and signature Morley fuzz/wah pedal for the session to replicate his sharp-yet-thunderous tone he created on the original recording. It is my hope that this homage will highlight Cliff‘s larger-than-life personality and that his music will always live on through this unique and iconic song he gave to the world.”
Ellefson’s involvement carries added weight given his history with Megadeth and Metallica. He and Dave Mustaine co-founded Megadeth in 1983 after Mustaine’s departure from Metallica. That same year, Metallica recruited Kirk Hammett and recorded their debut, Kill ‘Em All, while Ellefson and Mustaine began work on Megadeth‘s own first record, Killing Is My Business… And Business Is Good!
The first single released from No Life ‘Til Leather – A Tribute To Metallica’s Kill ‘Em All was a fiery rendition of Metallica’s “The Four Horsemen” by The Almighty. This marked the group’s first recorded track with its original lineup since 1991, making it a historic moment for the band and their fans.
Ricky Warwick, guitarist for The Almighty, explained the significance of the project: “The Four Horsemen” by Metallica got us back into the studio with the original lineup for the first time since 1991… Unbelievable.
“When the opportunity presented itself, it was really a no-brainer. Metallica has been a huge influence on us. It was a bit nerve-racking because we had not been in the studio for such a long time. We did the whole thing in a day and a half with as much power and passion as you would expect from The Almighty. It is such a powerful track. I think it turned out great — make sure you turn it up really, really loud!”
The tribute album is described as a massive celebration of what is widely regarded as one of the most influential debuts in metal history. It brings together veteran acts such as Saxon, Diamond Head, and Motörhead — all bands that heavily influenced Metallica in their early years — along with up-and-coming artists like Tailgunner and Swedish progressive metallers Soen.
Pre-order the album here.
The collection also includes performances from thrash legends Testament, New Wave of British Heavy Metal pioneers Tygers Of Pan Tang, and a powerful closing contribution from Raven, who deliver a roaring version of “Metal Militia”. Raven’s inclusion holds historical significance, as they toured with Metallica in 1983 during the iconic Kill ‘Em All For One tour, Metallica’s very first major trek.
With such a diverse roster, the album showcases multiple generations of metal musicians, each adding their own style and energy to Metallica’s classic tracks.
No Life ‘Til Leather – A Tribute To Metallica’s Kill ‘Em All aims to honor the monumental legacy of Metallica, a band that forever changed the landscape of heavy music. Described as “by the fans and for the fans,” the project serves as both a tribute to Metallica‘s early work and a testament to the enduring influence of Kill ‘Em All.
The record will be available in multiple formats, including vinyl, CD, and digital, allowing fans to experience the music in whichever way they choose.
