During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, many musicians started collaborating virtually on cover songs. One notable collaboration featured William DuVall from Alice in Chains, Bill Kelliher from Mastodon, Charlie Benante from Anthrax, and Mark Menghi from Metal Allegiance. They came together to cover Soundgarden’s “Rusty Cage.”
Now, five years later, this group has officially released their version under the name King Ultramega. The name pays homage to Soundgarden’s albums “Ultramega OK” and “King Animal.” The project honors the late Chris Cornell, Soundgarden’s frontman, and aims to raise funds for MusiCares, a charity supported by the Recording Academy.
DuVall shared his thoughts on the project, saying, “I wanted to take on an interesting challenge when the world was shut down. I never expected this to go beyond our social media post five years ago. If this release can help MusiCares, then I’m all for it.”
Future King Ultramega releases are planned, featuring various artists, including Soundgarden guitarist Kim Thayil. Thayil expressed his excitement, saying, “I’m honored to record with such amazing musicians. I’m proud that we celebrate Soundgarden and Chris’s songwriting. Everyone’s participation supports the MusiCares Foundation.”
King Ultramega also marks Soundgarden’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as part of the 2025 class.
