What To Make Of Megadeth’s Departures
Written by Tyler Hurst
Saturday, 06 December 2014 02:55
It’s been a difficult time for fans of iconic metal band Megadeth, as the group seems to have disbanded, at least in part. According to The Guardian and various other sources online, drummer Shawn Drover and guitarist Chris Broderick—both have been with the group since the mid- to late-2000s—have left the band. The parting appears to have been amicable, with Drover leaving to pursue independent musical interests and Broderick explaining his own reluctance to leave. But regardless, it seems that Megadeth is once again down to its two remaining founding members, Dave Mustaine and Dave Ellefson.
In the wake of change, however, there’s still plenty to be excited about, as Megadeth has already shown an aptitude for keeping up with the times and remaining relevant to its fans and audiences. First of all, it’s worth noting that though Megadeth as it’s been known for the past six years or so has effectively disbanded, the departures of Drover and Broderick do not mark the end of the group. Metal Insider quoted Ellefson the other day as assuring fans that they aren not dissolving. He said that he and Mustaine will be looking at many options in moving forward with the band, and that they would continue to work on new material in the meantime.
Still, there’s probably going to be a bit of a lull period for hardcore Megadeth fans. Any would-be tour dates will presumably have to be postponed or scrapped. Also, the lack of a full band will surely delay any forthcoming album. But fortunately, as mentioned, Megadeth have done a good job of changing with the times. That means that there are still plenty of ways to enjoy recent material and fresh looks at the band while fans wait for them to be made whole once more.
The best place to turn in the absence of a touring band or new music is the most recent material, and in that regard Megadeth don’t disappoint. The best option for fans who haven’t seen it yet or didn’t catch the tour is the ‘Countdown To Extinction: Live’
Moving in a different direction, fans missing Megadeth can also enjoy the band in a somewhat unusual context, through an online arcade game. With the growth of the online gaming industry, a lot of sites have begun to use popular entertainment themes—characters, films, and sometimes bands—to draw attention to various games, and it just so happens there’s a Megadeth one that’s a blast for fans. Quoting “Crush ’em,” InterCasino introduces the game with “step up now, you’re in for a ride” and encourages players to look for features like Vic Rattlehead icons, a Hangar 18 Free Spins game, and a Head Crusher bonus round. It doesn’t quite fill the gap of a missing drummer and guitarist, but it’s an oddly enjoyable way to enjoy some Megadeth history.
And then of course there’s their latest album release, which is always nice to listen to one more time. With bands that have been around as long as Megadeth, it can be easy to dismiss the newer albums and focus on the classics, but in this case the 2013 Super Collider was actually a pretty strong effort worthy of the band’s history. In a good but not great review, Loudwire called the album “a bit of a throwback,” and if you’re a fan distraught over the latest partial disbandment, that may be just the thing you need.
With a bit of luck, Ellefson and Mustaine will find new bandmates soon and fans won’t need to sustain themselves with video games, old albums, and performance DVDs for too long. But for now, we can at least rest assured that the departure of two members is not the end of a legendary act.