NO LIFE ‘TIL LEATHER

On November 14, 2025, Silver Lining Music will release a tribute to Metallica‘s legendary debut album Kill ‘Em All, aptly named No Life ‘Till Leather (the name of their famous EP from 1982). Kill ‘Em All is one of the first albums responsible for the sound of modern thrash metal that we know today. This was a pivotal album in metal history, not only propelling Metallica onto a trajectory of massive success but also served as the blueprint for the worldwide thrash metal movement. All the various artists on this special release either cite Metallica as an influence or have actually influenced Metallica. It’s truly a great mix of bands that covers many metal genres.

The album begins with ‘Hit The Lights’ by English band Tailgunner. With NWOBHM roots in their music, this is a great way to start with a young band full of raw energy. From the opening drums and riffs, the guys do a terrific job covering this song with speed and intensity. ‘The Four Horsemen’ by The Almighty pushes a thick, doom-set-to-thrash sound to this classic. ‘Motorbreath’ by Swedish prog metallers SOEN lends their unique sound to kick this track into gear. ‘Jump In The Fire’ by Tygers Of Pan Tang, another NWOBHM kingpin, creates that catchy chorus that rings through your ears. ‘(Anaesthesia) Pulling Teeth’ by ex-Megadeth bassist David Ellefson is a great tribute to late Metallica bassist Cliff Burton. ‘Whiplash’ by one of Metallica’s favourite bands, Motörhead, absolutely hits the mark—it must be so cool to have your idols cover your songs. This leads into another one of Metallica’s favourite bands, with Saxon covering ‘Phantom Lord’; this is one of my favourites on the album.

‘No Remorse’ by the legendary Diamond Head returns the favour, as Metallica covered their song ‘Am I Evil’ on the KEA 1988 reissue. This is another band closely aligned with the Metallica camp, and they absolutely do this track justice. ‘Seek and Destroy’ is such an energetic track by thrash peers Testament. This explosive cover is another one of my personal favourites. Raven finishes the album off with the last track ‘Metal Militia’. It’s only fitting, as they were part of Metallica’s first-ever tour, Kill ‘Em All For One, in 1983.

Kill ‘Em All means so much to so many fans, and this album does a great job celebrating that. I still remember the first time I heard KEA at just twelve years old, and that excited feeling rushed back as I listened to this. I hope newer fans pick this up and check out the original, as well as the bands showcased on this compilation.