The thrash metal movement of the 1980s produced what heavy metal fans refer to as “the big four” of the genre, and of those four bands, Megadeth is the one with arguably the most consistent output. Both Slayer and Anthrax have strong fan bases and critical respect, but Megadeth mastermind Dave Mustaine has kept his band touring and releasing albums with a high level of frequency and reliability, making Megadeth a well-oiled metal machine no matter the lineup. They perform in Las Vegas on Sept. 22.
For nearly all of the band’s 30-plus years, singer-guitarist Mustaine has been joined by bassist Dave Ellefson. These days Megadeth also includes guitarist Kiko Loureiro, a founding member of Brazilian metal band Angra, and drummer Dirk Verbeuren, who spent more than a decade in Swedish metal band Soilwork. Loureiro played on the most recent Megadeth album, Dystopia, bringing a new energy to the band, which now includes two members influenced by early Megadeth. That influence has permeated heavy metal for decades, and Megadeth continues moving forward, carrying the torch of thrash into the future.
The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel, 5 p.m. doors, 6 p.m. shows Sept. 22, starting at $49.50 plus tax and fee. 888.929.7849
