David Ellefson Recalls Hearing Metallica’s ‘Anesthesia (Pulling Teeth)’ for the First Time

David Ellefson, best known as the former bassist of Megadeth, has unveiled his rendition of Metallica’s iconic instrumental track “(Anesthesia) – Pulling Teeth.” The cover will appear on the upcoming tribute compilation No Life ‘Til Leather – A Tribute to Metallica’s Kill ‘Em All, which is set for release on November 14 through Silver Lining Music. The project features performances from a range of influential metal artists paying homage to Metallica’s groundbreaking 1983 debut album.

Ellefson’s version of the late Cliff Burton’s legendary bass solo pays careful attention to detail. In the recording, he used one of Burton’s original Aria Pro signature bass guitars and his distinctive Morley fuzz/wah pedal to replicate the raw, aggressive tone featured on the original track. “It was a total honor to be asked to participate in this album,” Ellefson said in a statement. “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 Reflects on Burton’s Legacy and Sudden Death

Cliff Burton played on Metallica’s first three studio albums before his tragic death in a tour bus accident in 1986. In a recent episode of The David Ellefson Show, Ellefson reflected on the profound impact Burton had on the metal community and how deeply his passing affected those around him. He recalled the emotional moment he and then-bandmate Dave Mustaine heard the news, describing it as a day when “the world stopped” for them. Mustaine responded to the tragedy by composing much of the music for “In My Darkest Hour” shortly afterward.

Ellefson also shared insights about Burton’s role within Metallica, based on conversations he had with Mustaine over the years. “Cliff was older than the other guys, so when he spoke, they listened,” Ellefson said. “He didn’t speak often, but when he did, it mattered. It had an impact.” According to Ellefson, Burton carried a quiet authority within the band, respected not only for his musicianship but also for his presence.

Tribute Album Features a Lineup of Metal Legends

The No Life ‘Til Leather tribute album brings together a collection of artists who were either contemporaries of Metallica or served as influences during the band’s formative years. Alongside Ellefson’s tribute, the album includes contributions from legendary acts such as Motörhead, Saxon, Diamond Head, and Testament, each offering their own interpretations of songs from Kill ‘Em All.

Set for release on November 14, the album celebrates the legacy of Metallica’s debut, which helped define thrash metal and shape the genre’s direction in the decades that followed. For Ellefson, covering Burton’s groundbreaking solo is more than a tribute—it’s a personal acknowledgment of a fellow bassist whose influence continues to resonate deeply in the world of heavy music.

No Life ‘Til Leather – A Tribute To Metallica’s Kill ‘Em All Track Listing
1. “Hit the Lights” – by Tailgunner
2. “The Four Horsemen” – by The Almighty
3. “Motorbreath” – by Soen
4. “Jump in the Fire” – by Tygers of Pan Tang
5. “(Anesthesia) – Pulling Teeth” – by David Ellefson
6. “Whiplash” – by Motorhead
7. “Phantom Lord” – by Saxon
8. “No Remorse” – by Diamond Head
9. “Seek & Destroy” – by Testament
10. “Metal Militia” – by Raven