It’s been 43 years since Dave Mustaine was kicked out of Metallica and started his new thrash band, Megadeth. Since then, they have released 17 albums and sold 50 million copies worldwide.

From the very beginning in 1983, it was Mustaine’s goal to create a band that was faster, heavier, and more technically proficient. He sought revenge by trying to surpass his former band in both success and aggression. Now, with their final album, “Megadeth,” it feels like a conclusion not only to the long-standing beef between Metallica and Megadeth, but also a farewell to their fans. The album spans 11 main tracks and includes two exclusive bonus tracks.

Review of Songs

The first song on the record, titled “Tipping Point,” immediately grabs your attention. It launches straight into the main riff, with solo work layered throughout the song. The energy sets the tone for the rest of the album.

Next, “Let There Be Shred” lives up to its name. It is packed with fast, shredding guitar work reminiscent of Megadeth’s first album, “Killing Is My Business… and Business Is Good!”, which is known for its speed and intensity.

Slowing things down slightly, songs like “Puppet Parade” and “I Don’t Care” are more riff-heavy and groove-based. The riffs in these tracks sound similar to “Almost Honest” from “Cryptic Writings,” giving them a more classic Megadeth feel.

Moving further into the album, “Another Bad Day” comes across as more of a lighthearted or “just a joke” song. That doesn’t mean it’s bad — it simply focuses on everyday frustrations. A “bad day” in this case might mean stubbing your toe or your car breaking down, making it relatable in a different way than some of the heavier tracks.

“Made to Kill” shifts the tone again with a more hardcore vibe. It sounds similar to their 12th album, “Endgame,” and at times even resembles Slayer’s “Repentless,” especially in its aggression and pacing.

On a more serious note, “I Am War” contains deeper lyrics and meaning. It discusses how the media often portrays war as successful or heroic, while ignoring the countless deaths and PTSD experienced by veterans. This track stands out for its message.

The final original track, “The Last Note,” serves as an emotional closer. It tells the story of Mustaine’s journey to fame and what feels like his final goodbye. The closing lyric, “I came, I ruled, now I disappear,” makes it clear that this album is meant to be a sendoff.

Cover and Bonus Tracks

After the original tracks, the album includes Megadeth’s cover of Metallica’s “Ride the Lightning.” In my opinion, Mustaine’s voice doesn’t sound the same as it once did. However, in his defense, he battled throat cancer in 2019 and is now 64 years old. While the vocals may not be at their peak, the solo and drum work stand out and, in my opinion, are even stronger than the original.

The two bonus tracks, “Nobody’s Hero” and “Bloodlust,” arguably deserve spots on the main album. They could have replaced “Hey God?!” and “Obey the Call,” since those tracks feel weaker in both lyrics and riffs.

“Nobody’s Hero” sounds almost like a theme for a hero or anti-hero, which is kind of ironic given the title.

“Bloodlust,” on the other hand, features haunting lyrics about someone or something with an insatiable desire for violence. At certain points, it sounds similar to “Liar” from “So Far, So Good… So What!”, bringing back elements of their earlier sound.

Ratings

Overall, the lyrics and vocals earn a 2.5 out of 5. Mustaine is clearly no longer in his prime, and he leans into a more gravelly tone compared to his earlier work. Some songs hit the mark, while others fall short.

The riffs earn a 3.5 out of 5. Every song has at least one riff that leaves your face full of “stank,” which is what Megadeth fans expect.

In the end, my partner and I give the album a 3.5 out of 5. Megadeth is good — just not great — but this album serves as a solid sendoff to a legendary band.