The Kings Of Thrash are back with a vengeance, dropping their blistering new single Lockdown, a full-throttle celebration of Old School Thrash Metal fury with an unmistakably modern pulse. Featuring Megadeth veterans David Ellefson (bass), Jeff Young (guitar), and Chris Poland (special guest guitarist), the band takes a defiant step forward while honouring the roots that shaped a genre.
Rounded out by Chaz Leon (vocals, guitar) and Fred Aching (drums), Kings Of Thrash are not content to simply relive past glories. Instead, Lockdown marks a striking shift from the retrospective tone of 2023’s The Mega Years tour and live album, which reimagined classic Megadeth milestones including Killing Is My Business…, Peace Sells…, and So Far, So Good…So What?
This time, they’re forging new ground—without forgetting the molten DNA of Thrash.
“Lockdown has it all,” says Poland. “Great riffs. A super catchy chorus. And a rhythm section that is locked up tight.” The track delivers on all fronts: punishing tempo, gang vocals, and a barrage of four screaming solos that echo the primal energy of early Thrash, blended with the urgency of now.
Described by Young as “a cool mix of ’80s Thrash and Punk vibes,” Lockdown is paired with a gripping video directed by Aching and Dead Groove bandmate Holly West. Shot in a raw, live-in-the-studio style with a touch of gritty incarceration imagery, it’s a visual statement of rebellion, resistance, and musical freedom.
Ellefson describes the lyrics as “timely in this chaotic world we now live in,” resonating with fans who find solace and strength in the visceral power of music.
More is on the way. Kings of Thrash will ignite the Thrashin’ SoCal tour at the legendary Whisky a Go Go on September 4, before storming the East Coast in October.
The tour also commemorates the 30th anniversary of Youthanasia, further cementing the band’s commitment to bridging Thrash Metal’s past, present, and future.
As Young puts it, “Our thrash tribe casts a wide net to give people hope… What better way than through the music, which has become the soundtrack to our lives.”
Kings Of Thrash – Lockdown – Can be ordered from here.
