Megadeth’s fourth studio album, “Rust in Peace” was released on September 24, 1990, and is regarded by many as an influential album in the genre of thrash metal. This album stands as a testament to the band’s impact on the genre with its aggression, intricate solos, and great lyrics. In this review, we will explore the album’s themes and dissect its intricacies. We will also discover its place within the discography of Megadeth. By the end, we’ll have a compelling case for why “Rust in Peace” is a must-listen.
Megadeth’s target audience consists of thrash metal aficionados. These fans typically seek intensity, technicality, and lyrical depth in their music selection. “Rust in Peace” not only meets but exceeds these expectations, delivering an experience that is both aggressive and intellectually stimulating. For those who like great-sounding guitar riffs, intricate solos and lyrics that aren’t afraid of criticism, this album is a must-listen.
Megadeth was founded in Los Angeles, California by guitarist and vocalist Dave Mustaine, after his early leaving from Metallica in 1983 due to disputes with other bandmates. Mustaine actually created some of the riffs you hear in the early albums of Metallica, although he was never credited.
He has consistently pushed the boundaries of thrash metal. His vocals are unique and carry a lot of personality. They sound snarly, aggressive and instantly recognizable by fans of him. Megadeth’s previous albums, including “Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?” and “So Far, So Good… So What!” had established the band as formidable contenders in the genre. The album got its name as Mustaine was driving home and saw a bumper sticker that read: “May all your nuclear weapons rust in peace”. This notion of nuclear warfare and its consequences on the human race was the focus of the concluding track “Rust In Peace…Polaris”.
By 1988, Mustaine had fired his previous bandmates (apart from bassist David Ellefson) and was looking for new talent for the creation of their next album. He picked up drummer Nick Menza, who was their former drummer’s technician. Menza would go on to record drums for Megadeth’s following three albums. Guitarist Marty Friedman’s addition to the band brought a new level of technicality that pioneered some of the riffs and solos on these tracks. Their musical chemistry with Mustaine resulted in an everlasting impact on metal.
“Rust in Peace” is an unrelenting auditory assault. The album features 8 amazing tracks, not including the eighth track Dawn Patrol, which stands out from the rest for being slow and showcasing a low level of musical ability and awkward-sounding vocals. Setting this track aside, the album begins with the furious opening track, “Holy Wars… The Punishment Due.” Mustaine’s fierce guitar riffs and charged lyrics instantly set the tone for what’s to come. The track addresses conflicts of war, religion, and society. The lyrics on this track are incredibly impressive, proving Mustaine is not only a master of the guitar but also the pen.
One of the standout tracks is “Tornado of Souls”, a masterpiece of guitar work, in part due to Friedman’s solo. The solo on this track is oftentimes cited as the best solo in all of metal. “Lucretia” is another gem on the album, with its hauntingly melodic intro and Mustaine’s snarling vocals. The lyrics, inspired by a ghostly experience Mustaine had in his home, adds an eerie dimension to the album. “Rust in Peace… Polaris” serves as the epic conclusion to the album, featuring apocalyptic lyrics and a meshing of guitar and drum skills. “The main riff in “Rust…” is like no other in rock. Absolutely unique.” says Friedman.
The album includes captivating lyrical content, as “Holy Wars… The Punishment Due” dives into religious and political topics. These lyrics make evident Mustaine’s disdain for the violence and hypocrisy he perceives in the world. The track transitions to “Hangar 18,” which explores the mysterious and enigmatic world of government conspiracy theories. Mustaine’s lyrical skill helps to push a narrative that challenges conventional beliefs and raises questions about the hidden truths of the world. The album features moments of self reflection, as present in the song “Tornado of Souls.” The song’s emotional tone conveys a sense of personal loss to the listener, as he wrote the song about the day he left his fiancé: “I thought my existence was in that relationship — I was trapped in the eye of a tornado…”.
In conclusion, “Rust in Peace” by Megadeth is a musical masterpiece that rightfully deserves its spot as one of the best albums in metal history. “Rust in Peace” represents a moment of musical growth. The album’s success solidified Megadeth’s position as one of the leading bands in the thrash metal genre alongside bands like Metallica and Slayer, and its influence can be heard in later generations of metal bands. Its intricate compositions, technical guitar solos, and socially relevant lyrics make it a standout album in the genre. Each track on “Rust in Peace”(aside from Dawn Patrol) is carefully crafted that delivers an intense metal experience. “Rust in Peace” is an album you shouldn’t miss. It continues to captivate audiences, proving its lasting impact in the world of metal music.