Marty Friedman and Megadeth to Share the Stage in Japan — Fans Report ‘Dream Come True’
Marty Friedman and Megadeth to Share the Stage in Japan — Fans Report ‘Dream Come True’
In earth-shattering news for the world’s legions of thrash metal devotees, MEGADETH has announced the long-awaited return of founding guitarist Marty Friedman to the band. The news, announced through Megadeth’s official social media and later confirmed by Friedman himself, represents the first time the legendary guitarist has shared a concert stage with Dave Mustaine in 20 years, following the return of Megadeth bassist James LoMenzo.
The reunion is also due to happen at the Nippon Budokan, where so much of the band’s legacy was forged. Hype/excitement videos from MARTY HIMSELF: Marty Friedman has lived in Japan for going on 20 years and cannot express in words how excited he is to play this show “It just feels right. And there is no place more perfect than Japan for this moment. Can’t wait to make magic with Dave and the boys again.”
Dave Mustaine added: “Marty was a really important part of our early years, which have a special and sacred place in my heart, and I have always hoped to be able to make up with him. We made it happen.”
Songs like Tornado of Souls, Symphony of Destruction, hangar 18 and Trust that were written with Megadeth vocalist Dave Mustaine will all be included in a setlist that has been widely reported. For longtime fans, this performance is nostalgia, sure, but it’s also a long-overdue reckoning and a celebration of a time that gave metal a new presence in the 1990s.
The reaction online has been largely favorable. “This is what DREAMS are made of,” as one fan tweeted. Marty and Mustaine — the godfathers of melodic thrash back together again!” Another responded, “I’m flying to Tokyo even if I have to sell my car. This is once-in-a-lifetime stuff.”
Though there is no word yet on a full-fledged tour together, insiders indicate that if the onstage chemistry gels, more gigs could be on the books.
