Dave Mustaine is looking to mend fences with his former Metallica bandmates, James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich. As Megadeth prepares to release its final album on January 23, Mustaine included a version of “Ride the Lightning” as a tribute to his old friends.
“We’re always trying to improve our relationship,” Mustaine said. “I really do love those guys. We fought a lot because I missed them. Leaving the band was hard to accept.” Mustaine was kicked out of Metallica in 1983 after less than two years due to issues with drinking and drugs. He then formed Megadeth, which is now wrapping up its 40-year journey.
Mustaine chose “Ride the Lightning” because he co-wrote it with Hetfield, Ulrich, and bassist Cliff Burton. “It was to complete the circle and show respect to James and Lars,” he explained. “I want everyone to know that I think James is an amazing guitar player and Lars is a fantastic songwriter. I’ve always believed that.”
Recently, Mustaine and Hetfield reminisced about their past. “We talked about our different memories of things,” Mustaine shared. “I said, ‘There’s your version, my version, and then there’s the truth. I think the truth is the only one that matters because I don’t remember everything.’ James agreed that we don’t remember everything and wanted to discuss it.”
Before the album drops, four singles have already been released. Megadeth will kick off their tour on February 15 in Victoria, British Columbia, and will continue through September, hitting Canada, South America, Europe, and North America. Fans can preorder the album now.
