Kill 'Em All is Metallica's debut album, released on July 25, 1983. It was recorded in just two weeks on a budget of approximately $15,000, after the band was dropped by their previous label, Combat Records.
The original title was intended to be 'Metal Up Your Ass', but the record label rejected it as too offensive. The cover features a bloodied hammer, designed by guitarist James Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich.
The album marked the beginning of thrash metal, blending punk influences with the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. It is the only album featuring guitarist Dave Mustaine (who co-wrote four songs) and the first with Kirk Hammett, who joined just before recording.