Artist: Megadeth
Label: Capitol Records
Release Date: 1992
Rating: 5 Skulls
Requiem's Review:
Many may have ill thoughts of Countdown to Extinction, much in the same way they despise Metallica's Black Album. This is understandable because the bands went from their most advanced and technical sound to something far more commercially acceptable and, quite frankly, in each case it did not make a great deal of sense. But despite each album's abrupt departure from the previous album's sound, one can't deny each album's ability to shine on its own. Such is especially the case with Countdown to Extinction.Sure, the record really took a turn towards simplistic 4/4 time signatures and a verse/chorus/verse/chorus formula but the damn thing is just done so well, you can't help but love it. I actually think this is one of the finest metal production jobs of all time, which really helps matters. The drums especially are so crisp and clear, the cymbals feel as though they are in the same room with you. The rest of the band is given the same attention, and you are reminded of how important Dave, Dave, Marty and Nick really are to the band's sound. The guitar work done by Marty and Dave is nothing short of impeccable and the bass is actually loud and clear too! The guitar harmonies toward the end of "Ashes in Your Mouth" are almost tearjerkers, very reminiscent of Maiden. The songs themselves are masterpieces, worked to near perfection and unforgettable after a listen or two.
"Psychotron" is my personal favorite, a mechanical mid-paced number with classic Mustaine vocals reminiscent of Peace Sells... era and a smooth and sexy melodic chorus line. The hook is the primary focus on all the choruses and that's what really opened this album up to the masses. All the songs are heavy as hell, but are just in a more simplistic and memorable format, hence sending the band to much higher avenues than they were with Rust in Peace. Although the band continued down this more rock oriented path to less satisfying results, Countdown to Extinction exemplified four great musicians' abilities to write fantastic music with a big budget production job via Dave Mustaine and Max Norman. Although a 180 degree turn for Megadeth, a turn that worked wonders.
[- Metal Judgment Home -] [- Email Metal Judgment -]
©2005 Metal Judgment. All rights reserved.