Italian groove thrashers Extrema have teamed up with Metal Insider to unleash their new single, “The Ripper.” The Judas Priest classic cover was recorded during the recording sessions for their latest effort, Headbanging Forever (order here). The song is available on digital platforms with all profits from downloads and streams will be donated to Italian Civil Protection, who is at the frontlines of the war on COVID-19, coordinating the nation’s pandemic response with Italy’s Ministry of Health. 

Guitarist Tommy Massara comments:

“Our cover of ‘The Ripper’ was originally conceived as a bonus track of ‘Headbanging Forever’ for the Japanese market. As we did not find the sought license in Japan, the song was closed in a drawer. To me Coronavirus is like Jack the Knife hitting you from behind, so I felt the need to release the song as a digital single. All the royalty’s proceeds will be donated to the Italian Civil Protection. I discussed it with Gabri, Frullo and Tiziano, and they enthusiastically accepted. I hope you enjoy our version of this timeless Judas Priest’s classic hit.”

Frontman Tiziano “Titan” Spigno adds:

“This emergency, which arrived in the midst of our Italian tour, caught everyone unprepared. During these times music, books, movies, and art in general, although so badly affected, in many cases are a refuge for those people isolated at home, managing to get a few moments of serenity. Extrema want to contribute with this cover, recorded during the recording session of ‘Headbanging Forever.’”

Watch the video below and purchase the single here:

Check out the Rescheduled Extrema tour dates below:

09/12 Bolzano  IT @ Pippostage

09/26 Roma IT @ Defrag

09/27 Milano IT @ Milano Headbanging Fest @ Magazzini Generali

11/07 Mantova IT @ ArciTom