The 10 best cover songs by thrash metal bands
Music is an art form that knows no boundaries, often transcending genres and eras. This is especially true when thrash metal bands tackle cover songs, infusing them with their unique energy and aggressive soundscapes. Here’s a look at the 10 best cover songs by thrash metal bands that have brought a new dimension to the original tracks.
1.Metallica – “Am I Evil?” (Originally by Diamond Head)
Arguably more famous than the Diamond Head original, Metallica’s cover of “Am I Evil?” became a signature staple of their live sets. The song showcases their ability to blend melodic sensibilities with driving thrash intensity.
2.Anthrax – “Got the Time” (Originally by Joe Jackson)
Anthrax took Joe Jackson’s new wave hit and increased the tempo, supercharging it into a short, sharp burst of adrenaline that has since become one of their most beloved anthems.
3.Slayer – “Dissident Aggressor” (Originally by Judas Priest)
Slayer paid homage to their roots by covering this Judas Priest classic. Their version maintains the original’s menacing vibe while cranking up the speed and ferocity that Slayer fans crave.
4.Megadeth – “These Boots” (Originally by Nancy Sinatra)
With altered lyrics to suit Dave Mustaine’s sardonic style, Megadeth transformed Nancy Sinatra’s iconic “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” into a speedy, sneering thrash opus.
5.Testament – “Draw the Line” (Originally by Aerosmith)
Testament tackled Aerosmith’s rocking “Draw the Line,” maintaining its bluesy swagger while adding a crunchier guitar tone and faster tempo typical of their aggressive edge.
6.Overkill – “Changes” (Originally by Black Sabbath)
Thrash veterans Overkill took on Black Sabbath’s brooding ballad “Changes,” reworking it into a chugging behemoth interspersed with piercing guitar solos and snarling vocals.
7.Sepultura – “Orgasmatron” (Originally by Motörhead)
Sepultura’s rendition of Motörhead’s “Orgasmatron” is powerful and relentless, capturing the spirit of the original while also showcasing their own intense brand of thrash.
8.Exodus – “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” (Originally by AC/DC)
Exodus injected their brand of high-octane thrash into AC/DC’s hard rock anthem, amplifying its riff-heavy foundation with faster rhythms and aggressive instrumental work.
9.Sodom – “Iron Fist” (Originally by Motörhead)
Sodom’s gritty tribute to Motörhead’s “Iron Fist” remains faithful to Lemmy’s raucous energy but adds an extra layer of harshness and speed inherent in Sodom’s sound.
10.Suicidal Tendencies – “Join the Army/ Metallica – Seek & Destroy”
In this unconventional mash-up, Suicidal Tendencies synergized portions of their track “Join the Army” with riffs from Metallica’s “Seek & Destroy,” creating a hybrid that respected both thrash classics’ origins while forming something distinctly new.
These covers are more than mere tributes; they’re reimagined versions that stand as testaments to thrash metal bands’ ability to honor their influences while simultaneously showcasing their unique talents. Each song offers fans an invigorating experience that bridges musical pasts with unbridled aggression and modern flair.