They may be deemed as one of the godfathers of Metal, but they sure still hold the torch up high. Megadeth have just delivered at Hellfest, an absolutely incendiary set from beginning to end, and we are all humble worshippers.
Megadeth – Hellfest 2022 – 18 June 2022.
Words: Dany Jones
Photography: Aggie Anthimidou
Following the new bassist debacle, it seems that newly recruited James LoMenzo (ex-White Lion, Black Label Society and Slash), who has been filling post-Ellefson’s departure, has now been appointed permanent member of the band, and he fits in just like a glove.
Song after song, riff after riff, one is truly reminded of why Mustaine is dubbed the god of the riff and remains one of the main sources of inspiration for so many generations.
After the scorching day we have had, Dave Mustaine is enjoying the breeze just like the rest of us, and he doesn’t spare us his good humour when describing the birth of Sweating Bullets. “This is dedicated to a crazy friend of mine”.
Leaving an unprecedented legacy and yet going as strong as ever, Megadeth shines a light.
Once in France, they could not leave without playing À Tout Le Monde, and, as expected, the song goes down an absolute storm.
The riff master says, “you know this one, sing along”, and once again, the devout worshippers simply abide. A majestic Peace Sells follows, and in the encore, Dave shares yet another anecdote.
“A journalist recently asked me if the lyrics still mean anything.” One pause, he nods to the band and then they are off with Holy Wars.
Megadeth played an absolute monster of a set. We humbly bow to the Majesty of Sir Dave Mustaine, god of Metal and his magnificent Megadeth.
Megadeth – Hellfest – Setlist
Hangar 18
Dread and the Fugitive Mind
The Threat Is Real
Angry Again
The Conjuring
Sweating Bullets
Conquer or Die!
Dystopia
A tout le monde
Trust
Symphony of Destruction
Peace Sells
Encore:
Holy Wars… The Punishment Due
Hellfest 2022 will be held over two weekends in June, featuring 350 artists on six stages. For more information visit www.hellfest.fr/en/
You can read all the MetalTalk Hellfest coverage at metaltalk.net/tag/hellfest-2022
This year there is also a virtual edition, Hellfest From Home. For more details visit fromhome.hellfest.fr