Killed By Deaf – A Punk Tribute To Motörhead

“The punks loved us. The only reason we weren’t in that lot was because we had long hair, so obviously we must be heavy metal. That was the thinking. But a lot of kids heard us without seeing a picture, so they thought we were a punk band.”

These words by the late Motörhead frontman Lemmy Kilmister are very relevant with the release of 'Killed By Deaf – A Punk Tribute To Motörhead'. It does what it says on the tin, showcasing some of the finest names in punk taking on 14 classic tracks.

The album kicks off with Pennywise blasting through 'Ace of Spades' at breakneck speed, setting the tone for the record. Similarly, Rancid’s 'Sex & Death' feels tailor-made for Tim Armstrong’s rasp. The Bronx snarl through 'Over the Top,' while Lagwagon adds melodic shine to 'Rock ’N’ Roll.' Although it takes a bit to adjust to the slightly cleaner vocal style, it works. Meanwhile, FEAR’s unhinged 'The Chase Is Better Than The Catch' and GBH’s brawling 'Bomber' keep things gloriously raw, maintaining the album's momentum.

Murphy’s Law’s take on 'Stay Clean' injects hardcore swagger and a touch of horn-driven mania. Slaughterhouse deserves a special mention for their 'Love Me Like a Reptile', a fast, sinister rendition that feels true to Motörhead’s sleaze.

The Casualties deliver 'The Hammer' like it’s 1982 again, spiked jackets and boots stomping in unison before Anti-Nowhere League bring their trademark filth to 'Born to Raise Hell.' While Love Canal’s 'Voices in the Sky,' Soldiers of Destruction’s 'Overkill,' and Wisdom In Chains’ 'Iron Fist' prove just how far Motörhead’s reach runs.

It all ends with a gem: a previously unheard Motörhead & The Damned version of 'Neat Neat Neat,' Lemmy’s bass growl colliding perfectly with punk royalty.

Killed By Deaf is a reminder that punk and metal have always shared the same dirty soul. While it's not exactly reinventing the wheel, it's a great celebration album, and I think Lemmy would be proud.

Killed by Deaf will be out on 31st October!