David Ellefson Reviews the Latest Megadeth Album + NAMM Recap

Megadeth Album Review & Production

• 💡 David Ellefson shared his honest thoughts on the latest Megadeth album, noting that Teemu Mäntysaari is the "shining star" of the group.
• ⚙️ He expressed a desire for less "Pro Tool grid" and quantizing on drums, advocating for Dirk Verbeuren to "breathe" and play more naturally.
• 💬 Ellefson views the new album as a "Dave solo record" with a new band, rather than a true Megadeth sound, despite its official title.
• 📝 He praised Dave Mustaine's lyric writing, particularly for its ability to engage listeners, citing examples like "Sweating Bullets."

Preserving Music History & Venues

• 🏛️ The discussion highlighted the importance of preserving historic music landmarks like the Whisky a Go Go and the Rainbow, which are protected in Los Angeles.
• ⚠️ Concerns were raised about other iconic venues, like the Viper Room, potentially being torn down for condominiums, leading to a loss of city character.
• 🌆 Joshua Toomey noted that Nashville is experiencing a similar issue, with classic venues being replaced by condos and restaurants.

NAMM Experience & Industry Insights

• 🎸 David Ellefson recounted his busy experience at the NAMM show, including jamming at the Whisky and with Metal Allegiance.
• 🤝 He emphasized NAMM as the "annual musician summit" and a crucial place for the music tribe to gather and connect with industry partners.
• 🎟️ The show has become more accessible, with individuals now able to purchase a membership to attend, a change potentially influenced by post-COVID efforts to boost attendance.

Personal Reflections & Future Projects

• 🛣️ Ellefson stated he has "moved on" from Megadeth, considering his time with the band "five years in my rearview mirror" and having forgiven Dave Mustaine.
• 🎶 He is currently focused on learning songs for four other bands, including Ellefson-Soto, Metal Church, Kings of Thrash, and Bass Warrior.
• 🌎 Upcoming tours include South America, Japan, and Europe with Bass Warrior, as well as Kings of Thrash dates in Canada and Metal Church's debut in Mexico.

Early Megadeth Memories

• 🏠 Ellefson recalled the birthplace of Megadeth at 1736 North Sycamore, where he and Greg Handevidt lived, and where he first met James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich.
• 🎸 An anecdote was shared about Dave Mustaine playing "Ride the Lightning" riffs for Hetfield and Ulrich in the apartment, which later appeared on Metallica's album.
• 🏍️ He also reminisced about Dave Mustaine trading a motorcycle for a Marshall half-stack with a Metallica logo, highlighting early band dynamics.