Image: Megadeth – Album Cover
Megadeth are saying goodbye next year with one last studio record. The self-titled album will be released on January 23, 2026, and not only the first single “Tipping Point” but also the full tracklist has now been unveiled. The final track on the album remained a mystery for a while – it was said to be a cover of a song that Dave Mustaine had originally co-written himself. Naturally, speculation turned toward Metallica. And it’s now confirmed: “Ride The Lightning” is officially the bonus track on the album. According to Mustaine, fans can expect a faster version and a newly reinterpreted solo.
Here’s the full album tracklist:
- Tipping Point
- I Don’t Care
- Hey God?!
- Let There Be Shred
- Puppet Parade
- Another Bad Day
- Made To Kill
- Obey The Call
- I Am War
- The Last Note
- Ride The Lightning (Bonus Track)
The limited Indie Exclusive Edition of Megadeth's Megadeth is already available for pre-order.
Dave Mustaine on the decision to cover Metallica
Dave announced the cover in a personal video message and also spoke to Rolling Stone about his choice and the reasons behind it. According to him, it wasn't about creating his own version of the song. Instead, the song he initially wrote with James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich and Cliff Burton makes for a good opportunity to bring his career journey full circle.
Speaking about Metallica frontman James Hetfield and his current relationship with the band, Mustaine added that he always had respect for Hetfield, his guitar playing and songwriting. However, he says that this cover wasn't meant to revive relationships; it's meant to show respect and make sure nothing is left unsaid.
Dave Mustaine explains the background behind the Metallica cover in his video:
