Fans Applaud Megadeth’s Cover of Metallica’s ‘Ride the Lightning’
Fans of Megadeth have recently reacted to the band’s cover of Metallica’s classic track, “Ride the Lightning.” This cover appears on Megadeth’s self-titled 17th studio album, which is also their final release. Dave Mustaine, the band’s frontman, originally teased the cover months before the album’s launch.
Dave Mustaine’s Connection to Metallica
Mustaine co-wrote the original “Ride the Lightning,” and he described this cover as a way to complete his musical journey. In a statement to Loudwire Nights, he expressed his admiration for Metallica, particularly for James Hetfield’s guitar work and Lars Ulrich’s unique songwriting style.
Fan Reactions on Reddit
Reactions from the fan community have been varied. On Reddit, users shared their thoughts on Megadeth’s rendition. One fan remarked, “I really liked it, it sounds like Megadeth from the early years.” However, they acknowledged that if someone played this cover instead of the original, it might be met with confusion.
- Honesty in Tribute: Another fan highlighted the connection to metal history, emphasizing how the track maintains the opening harmonies originally written by Cliff Burton and Lars Ulrich.
- Criticism of Vocals: Some expressed disappointment with the vocals, stating that it felt like a note-for-note reproduction without any unique contribution from Megadeth.
Mixed Reactions on X
Similar sentiments emerged on X (formerly Twitter), showcasing a blend of appreciation and criticism for the cover. While some fans celebrated the homage, others questioned the need for such a direct reinterpretation at this stage in Megadeth’s career.
Conclusion
As Megadeth wraps up their journey with this final album, the cover of “Ride the Lightning” serves as a bittersweet homage to a pivotal moment in metal history. It reflects both Mustaine’s respect for Metallica and the ongoing dialogue among fans about the evolution of heavy metal music.
