All Killer No Filler
May 8, 2001
September 2000 – March 2001
Metalworks Studios in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada and Cello Studios in Los Angeles, California
32:14
Despite mixed reviews, the album was a commercial success, peaking at No. 13 on the Billboard 200. The single, "Fat Lip" peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Alternative Airplay.
Composition, music, and influences[edit]
The album's style has been described as pop punk[4][5][6] and skate punk.[7] NOFX's album Punk in Drublic was a considerable influence on the album.[8] Sum 41's vocalist/rhythm guitarist Deryck Whibley cites Rancid, Elvis Costello, the Beatles, and Pennywise as influences on All Killer No Filler.[9] The band has mentioned Green Day as their main influence for the album. "I was about 14 when Dookie came out," Whibley says. "I remember seeing the video for 'Basket Case' for the first time... It had so much energy and it was so different. I'd never seen anything like it before. From then I was an instant fan."[10]
Absolutepunk described the album as "the album that your parents don't want you to discover at age 11 when you're just starting to think that school is bullshit and the only thing that really matters is that ridiculously cute girl who honestly treats you like shit", as well as adding "The lyrics are broad enough that everyone can relate to them, but specific enough that each song makes you think of a certain person or situation in your life. The perfect balance".[11]
Drummer Steve Jocz wrote "Pain for Pleasure" in 10 minutes while he was on the toilet.[12] The song, sung by Jocz, is an homage to the style of Iron Maiden.[13] During performances, the band takes on costumes and persona in that style.
Release[edit]
On March 8, 2001, All Killer No Filler was announced for release in two months' time.[14] All Killer No Filler, which was Sum 41's first full-length album, was released on May 8, 2001.[15] In August, the band performed at Edgefest II in Canada.[16] In October, the band embarked on a headlining US tour, with support from Unwritten Law and Gob.[17] Alongside the tour, the band performed on Saturday Night Live.[18] In April 2002, the band went on a tour of the east coast US and Canada territories, with support from H2O, and Autopilot Off.[19] Following this, the band toured the US and Canada with Goldfinger.[20] On April 6, 2011, a special edition of the album was released to celebrate the 10th anniversary of All Killer No Filler, exclusive to Japan.[21]
From the initial success of the album, Deryck Whibley stated that it led him to "immediate embarrassment" stating that "I've always felt it wasn't that great, if I'm being honest," and "I never quite understood - to a point where it's almost like, when people tell me it means a lot to them or it was a really good album compared to other records, I always think they're lying."
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