Megadeth Alumni Unite in Kings of Thrash’s New Single ‘Lockdown’: A Thrash Metal Throwback or a Cheesy Misstep?
Former Megadeth members David Ellefson, Jeff Young, and Chris Poland have reunited in Kings of Thrash, unleashing their new single "Lockdown." But is this a triumphant return to thrash metal's roots, or a cheesy misfire?
Kings of Thrash, also featuring Chaz Leon and Fred Aching, is making waves with their original material after gaining recognition for their renditions of early Megadeth classics. Their "The Mega Years" tour, celebrating albums like "Killing Is My Business... And Business Is Good!", "Peace Sells...But Who's Buying!", and "So Far, So Good...So What!", served as a reminder of the band's influential role in shaping the thrash metal genre.
"Lockdown" marks a significant step for the band, moving out of the shadows of their iconic past while retaining the essence of their influential sound. Chris Poland enthusiastically describes the track as having "Great riffs. A super catchy chorus. And a rhythm section that is locked up tight!" He also stated he was honored to be a part of it. Jeff Young characterizes "Lockdown" as "a cool mix of '80s thrash and punk vibes, plus four guitar solos," emphasizing the energy and fun involved in its creation.
Ellefson adds that "Lockdown" captures the "true spirit of old school thrash metal," with lyrics reflecting the chaotic world we live in. The video, directed and edited by Fred Aching and Holly West, offers a glimpse into the band's performance, both live in the studio and symbolically "behind bars."
But not everyone is convinced. One reviewer described "Lockdown" as "cheesy" with "low production value and low energy." While acknowledging the band's capabilities, the review suggested that this particular track missed the mark. The band will be playing a series of gigs in September and October including 9/4 West Hollywood, CA The Whisky a Go Go and 10/17 Frenchtown, NJ Artie’s among others.
Adding fuel to the fire, Jeff Young has been outspoken about his relationship with Dave Mustaine, stating that Mustaine "hates what KINGS OF THRASH is doing." Young also boasted that the upcoming Kings of Thrash album will surpass Megadeth's recent work, claiming they perform Megadeth's songs better than Mustaine himself.
Despite any potential drama, the members maintain that their intention is to celebrate the music, without any spite or retaliation toward their former bandmates. Ellefson described the project during an interview with Yes! You CAN Play Guitar! as "a celebration, not a retaliation," further adding, "This is a good moment. This is a happy moment, to celebrate these songs and these tracks and these records... it's meant to be this celebration and bringing people together."
Kings of Thrash is set to embark on the "Thrashin' SoCal" tour, starting at the Whisky A Go Go in September, followed by "Thrashin' The East" in October, celebrating the 30th anniversary of Megadeth's "Youthanasia". Will these live performances change any naysayers' minds?
So, is "Lockdown" a triumphant return to form for these Megadeth veterans, or a cheesy attempt to recapture past glory? Hear the song and watch the video for yourself, and let us know what you think in the comments below!
