Megadeth 2026

Our very own DJJD, host of the Metallicave Thursday nights, reviews the new Megadeth self-titled album.

This is my review of Megadeth’s 17th and final studio album, self-titled Megadeth. Released
on January 23, 2026 it became the band’s first-ever No. 1 album on the Billboard 200, moving over
73,000 equivalent records sold in its first week. 

Critical Consensus
 I believe the album is somewhat technical. Guitarist Teemu Mäntysaari, whose “riveting solos”
were compared to the phrasing of ex-guitarist Marty Friedman. Many of Dave’s riffs sound like
classic riffs of old.
 The vocals and lyrics remain the most critical to me. Dave Mustaine's aging and limited vocal
range and subpar lyrical writing on tracks like “I Don’t Care” are not up to standard to me. A lot
of the singing on the album actually feels like he is talking more than singing.
 The cover of Metallica’s “Ride the Lightning” as a bonus track sparked major debates across
the internet along with a good conversations on my radio show. Some saw it as a “gratifying,
full-circle moment”, while other metalheads felt it was “unnecessary attention” that muddled the
album’s sense of finality. 

Songs that stood out to me:
The song “Tipping Point” is a straightforward, groove-heavy opener reminiscent of the Thirteen era.
When I first heard it I was excited because it felt like classic Megadeth.
The tune “Let There Be Shred” is a faster more aggressive standout song that I describe as another
classic sounding Megadeth track. With solid riffs throughout and thrashy lyrics, this track is one of my
top 3 off the album.
The song “Puppet Parade” brings me back to the classic release “Countdown to Extinction” for its
melodic atmosphere and familiar guitar style hooks.
The song “The Last Note” to me is a somber, acoustic-tinged ballad that serves as Mustaine’s official
“Swansong” and farewell to fans. This is the song that should have ended the album instead of “Ride
the Lightning” It would have been fitting.
The other songs aren’t really that special & they don’t stand out to me.
Overall ratings I give the music a solid 4 out of 5. The lyrics get a 3.5 out of 5 because I feel like some
of the lyrics are not very thoughtful. Some seem like whining while other lyrics are solid. Vocally I give
Dave a 4 out of 5. Some songs are I feel are sung with heart & soul while others like “I Don’t Care” &
“Another Bad Day” are just complaining. LOL
Overall, I think it’s a solid farewell album with a 4 out of 5

-DJJD of The Metallicave Radio Show