‘Master of Puppets’ Turns 30: Umphrey’s McGee, Primus, Rodrigo y Gabriela Cover the Iconic Metallica Record

Rob Slater on March 3, 2016


Today, one of the most iconic metal albums of all time turns 30. Yes, that means today in 1986, Metallica dropped Master of Puppets on the world, introducing us to soon-to-be metal anthems like “Orion,” the title track and others. 

Over the years, many have covered tunes from the record (there have also been multiple tribute albums dedicated to Master) and we’re here to focus on a select few including a take on “Orion” from Umphrey’s McGee, the only time they’ve ever performed the tune. Primus delivered a few attempts at various tracks, ultimately laying down “The Thing That Should Not Be” and acoustic duo Rodrigo y Gabriela have played numerous songs from the metal kings, including the opening track to Master of Puppets, “Battery.” 

Watch below.

Umphrey’s McGee | “Orion”

Primus | “The Thing That Should Not Be”

Rodrigo y Gabriela | “Battery”

Les Claypool’s Duo de Twang | “Master of Puppets”