Kill 'Em All Drum Setup: Lars Ulrich's 1983 Kit That Launched Thrash Metal | MetalForge

Frequently Asked Questions

What drum kit did Lars Ulrich use on Kill 'Em All?

Lars Ulrich recorded Kill 'Em All in 1983 using a Tama Imperial Star 5-piece kit in natural finish — a budget touring model, not a professional or endorsed setup. The configuration included a 22-inch bass drum, 12-inch and 13-inch rack toms, and a 16-inch floor tom. The Imperial Star's basswood and poplar shells produced a dry, punchy tone that was captured raw at Music America Studios in Rochester, New York. This was the kit Lars owned and toured with, assembled before Metallica had any endorsement deals or significant label backing.

What cymbals did Lars Ulrich use on Kill 'Em All?

Lars Ulrich used a mixed set of Paiste 2002 and Zildjian A cymbals on Kill 'Em All, with no formal endorsement deal at the time. The setup included Paiste 2002 hi-hats, crashes, and a China cymbal alongside Zildjian A crashes and a ride. This mix of two brands was practical rather than strategic — Lars assembled the setup from available instruments before Metallica had the profile to secure cymbal sponsorships. After the debut, he gravitated toward Zildjian A exclusively, using that series on Master of Puppets and beyond.

How was Lars Ulrich's kit on Kill 'Em All different from later Metallica albums?

Kill 'Em All featured a bare-bones Tama Imperial Star budget kit — the entry-level touring model Lars owned before any endorsements. On Master of Puppets (1986), he upgraded to vintage Camco Oaklawn Badge maple shells with a Ludwig Supraphonic LM402 snare. By ...And Justice for All (1988), he had transitioned to Tama Artstar II drums with a formal Tama artist relationship. The progression from Imperial Star to Camco to Tama Artstar II mirrors Metallica's own trajectory from underground indie act to major-label juggernaut — each album's gear reflects exactly where the band stood commercially and artistically at the time of recording.

Where was Kill 'Em All recorded and who produced it?

Kill 'Em All was recorded at Music America Studios in Rochester, New York in March and April 1983. The album was produced by Paul Curcio on a budget of approximately $15,000. The sessions were fast and lean — the limited budget meant there was no time for extended experimentation, which contributed directly to the raw, energetic character of the drum sound. The album was released on July 25, 1983 through Megaforce Records, the independent label that gave Metallica their first recording contract.

What bass drum pedal did Lars Ulrich use on Kill 'Em All?

Lars Ulrich used a Ludwig standard bass drum pedal on Kill 'Em All, despite the rest of the kit being Tama. This cross-brand hardware arrangement was typical of drummers who had not yet secured endorsements — each piece was chosen or available independently. The Ludwig pedal's direct chain-drive mechanism delivered the tight, punchy kick attack heard throughout the album on tracks like 'Whiplash' and 'Hit the Lights.' Lars would later standardize on Tama hardware as his partnership with the brand developed.