The mighty MEGADETH has returned with what has been announced as its final opus: a self-titled album. Before going any further, let me say this plainly — I’ve been listening to this band for more than 40 years, and the good has far outweighed the bad. It’s bittersweet to review a new MEGADETH record for what may be the last time.
The disc kicks off loud, proud, and in your face with “Tipping Point” and “I Don’t Care.” The latter boasts fiery solo work and the tandem of Dave Mustaine and Teemu Mäntysaari sounds downright lethal. “Hey God?!” keeps the intensity cranked, and three tracks in, the band is fully locked in.
As for personal favorites, “Let There Be Shred” is high on my list. I’d kill to catch this one live — Dirk Verbeuren and James LoMenzo lay down a hard-charging groove beneath a potent axe attack, and Mustaine sounds particularly fired up.
A melodic break arrives with “Puppet Parade,” but it’s still ballsy as hell. “Another Bad Day” wanders between good and great, while “Made to Kill” stomps forward and delivers a swift kick to the shins, making it another winner.
“Obey the Call” needed a minute to grow on me, but it eventually did. “I Am War” manages to sound fresh while channeling some DNA from the band’s early 1990-’92 era — a welcome touch, and another showcase for blistering guitar work.
“The Last Note” steers things into darker waters without sacrificing ferocity, adding yet another strong cut to an album chock full o’them.
When it’s all said and done, this is a damn good record. MEGADETH has delivered one hell of a final statement, and I thank Dave and company for 40+ years of riffs, rage, and memories. If this is truly the last chapter, they’re going out on top — and the tour should wreck heads from sea to shining sea.
STANDOUT TRACKS: “Made to Kill,” “Let There Be Shred,” “I Don’t Care,” “Tipping Point”
RATING: 9/10
—THE MAESTRO
