United Abominations

Megadeth: Dave Mustaine, Glen Drover (acoustic guitar); James LoMenzo, Shawn Drover (background vocals). Additional personnel: Cristina Scabbia (vocals); Axel Mackenrott (keyboards); Chris Rodriguez (background vocals). Issued in May 2007 after months of delays, UNITED ABOMINATIONS not only marks Megadeth's first album for the venerable Roadrunner label, it features singer/guitarist Dave Mustaine backed by an entirely new ensemble. In fact, the record's artwork even boasts a revamped depiction of Vic Rattlehead, the band's mascot. Clearly, the changes have reinvigorated Mustaine, who is at his snarling best on these fierce tracks, which, like many classic Megadeth tunes, take on issues of politics ("Washington Is Next!"), armed conflict ("Gears of War"), and blind obedience ("Sleepwalker"). Given Mustaine's strong personality and knack for selecting top-notch musicians, the radical personnel shift has no discernable negative effects on the group, with James Lomenzo (bass) and brothers Glen and Shawn Drover (guitar and drums, respectively) contributing to a more streamlined approach that eschews excessive soloing. While Megadeth's aggressive thrash aesthetic is amply showcased on the wire-tight "Sleepwalker," Mustaine also makes room for subtleties, as on a reworking of the melancholy "A Tout Le Monde" (originally on 1994's YOUTHANASIA), which includes guest vocals by Lacuna Coil singer Cristina Scabbia. Arguably Megadeth's finest and most assured outing since '92's COUNTDOWN TO EXTINCTION, UNITED ABOMINATIONS is the sound of metal royalty refusing to give up its throne.