Megadeth to commence work on 16th studio album in November
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Last updated 29th Jun 2017
Dave Mustaine has confirmed that Megadeth are hitting the studio this winter to commence work on their 16th studio album.
The band released their last record ‘Dystopia’ in January 2016, and Dave says that following the current tour cycle – which includes a headline slot at Bloodstock Open Air – they’re going to start “throwing some ideas around” for the next record.
Asked about Megadeth’s upcoming plans by Katt Rock 100.5, Dave said: “We have stuff planned for next year and then, believe it or not, we have something that we were approached on for 2019.
“That’s the farthest ever in my life I’ve been asked to do a show in advance, so we’re excited about that – and in-between that time period, we plan on going back in the studio.
“We’re probably going to go back in and start throwing some ideas around at the end of the year – we’re thinking about November and December.”
Dave also lavished new drummer Dirk Verbeuren, who joined the band a year ago after Lamb of God’s Chris Adler performed on Dystopia.
"As good as Adler was, Dirk's feet are more advanced," Dave said. "And I didn't think that was possible, because Chris is such a great drummer. But there's a reason why Chris recommended Dirk, and I love him for that.
“I think that he's a really solid friend for making that recommendation, 'cause a lot of guys wouldn't do that, but he's a true friend, and I was stoked having him in the studio."
Dave continued: “Dirk is one of the most pleasant, easy-to-get-along-with guys I've ever met in my life. I'll walk up to him and he'll smile and lean forward and pat me on the back.”
Last month, Dirk told RoppongiRocks.com he was hoping to contribute to the songwriting in some way: “I’ve started recording some ideas, you know, just having stuff in my phone. It’s good that I have this period of time, unlike Chris, who came in and it was pretty much straight to recording.
“I look forward to spending time with the guys working on ideas. Obviously a lot of it is centred round Dave.