Mustaine: A Heavy Metal Memoir

By John Jeffrey

When I heard that Dave Mustaine was coming out with a book, it immediately peaked my interest.  With Megadeth being one of my favorite bands, I was curious as to what 'Mega-Dave' had to offer as a literary author.

Upon the release of Mustaine: A Heavy Metal Memoir (written by Dave Mustaine and Joe Layden), I began reading some online reviews, which all seemed to be the most generic things ever written, looking like reviewer simply combined the book's press release with the inner sleeve preamble, passing it off as a 'review.'

NOT GOOD ENOUGH!!!!

Not waiting for a review copy, I ordered the book myself, and read it from front to back in record time.  I was completely enthralled with it and could not put the book down until I reached the end.  After fully digesting the book, not only was I full, but I felt (mentally) hung over, not knowing whether I wanted a beer or the bible.

Upon delving into the book, it is if almost the reader could hear the words off the pages coming straight from Mustaine's mouth, going from sneer to chuckle, when Dave delivers the punchline to one of his humorous anecdotes, which this book is chock full of. 

Climbing aboard the Megadeth time machine, we're taken back in time, watching Dave transform from a Little league baseball player, into a Major league Rock star.  From selling drugs for simple sustenance (something Dave is not proud of, which he makes clear several times throughout the book) to selling out stadiums with Megadeth, he has basically seen and done it all.

Today, success has a different meaning for Dave Mustaine.  No longer does it involve fighting, chasing drugs, alcohol, or the "Long, dark cloud" of his former band, Metallica.  Now he enjoys success with his wife, 2 children and a renewed relationship with God.

Looking back at the history of Megadeth, it's a rather unique story.  From band members (there's been 17 different people in and out of the group) being replaced by their own roadies....TWICE...to members being fired (partially) for their obsession with gay porn, it's never been a dull moment for Dave and the boys!!!!

Mustaine: A Heavy Metal Memoir  is a great, easy read for any Megadeth or music fan, being a true story of stardom and excess, with an atypical ending.  Be sure to pick yourself up a copy!!!!