KIRK HAMMETT Feels Guilty For Leaving EXODUS, Not For Taking His Riffs With Him

Exodus was based in 1979 by guitarists Kirk Hammett and Tim Agnello, drummer Tom Searching, and vocalist Keith Stewart. Hammett famously left the band in 1983 to go be part of Metallica after they break up with Dave Mustaine, and was ultimately changed by guitarist Rick Hunolt.

Metallica went on to launch their debut album Kill ‘Em All in 1983, whereas Exodus launched their (eternally underrated) thrash traditional Bonded By Blood in 1985… however what would’ve occurred if Hammett stayed in Exodus? Apparently they’d have a few of these candy Kill ‘Em All riffs.

In an interview with Metallic Hammer (by way of Guitar.com), Hammett famous that he felt much less unhealthy about taking his riffs over to Metallica than he did about leaving his longtime associates in Exodus.

“The [riffs] got here from songs that I had written, music that I had written,” mentioned Hammett. “I think about them my components. I did not really feel responsible about that, however I did really feel responsible about leaving the band I began in highschool.

“I’ve identified [Exodus drummer] Tom Searching since I used to be 16 years outdated, I’ve identified [Exodus guitarist] Gary Holt since I used to be 17. We’re all near at the present time, however there was quite a lot of guilt there for some time. A bit little bit of regret. However I actually felt that Metallica was my calling. I really feel extra snug enjoying in Metallica than I ever did in Exodus, so go determine.”

It is particularly fascinating for Hammett to make these feedback contemplating he was by no means credited as a songwriter on Kill ‘Em All. The album was credited as being written by frontman James Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich, with Mustaine receiving credit for “The 4 Horsemen”, “Soar In The Hearth”, “Phantom Lord”, and “Metallic Militia”. After which clearly “(Anesthesia) – Pulling Enamel” was all of the majesty of Cliff Burton alone.