11 Underrated Megadeth Songs: Secret Playlist

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here, the heart and soul behind Level Tunes. As a DJ and a die-hard music fan, I’ve always been on the lookout for tracks that resonate with the soul, and today, I’m super excited to share something special with you.

We’re diving into the world of Megadeth, a band that’s rocked our worlds with their thrashing riffs and intense lyrics. But beyond their chart-toppers, there lies a treasure trove of underrated gems that often slip under the radar.

I’ve curated a list of 11 Megadeth songs that deserve way more attention.

Why?

Because great music should never go unheard, and these tracks are just too good to miss. Let’s embark on this sonic journey together and discover the hidden depths of Megadeth’s discography!

Here are the Underrated Megadeth songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Megadeth Songs

Underrated Megadeth songs in a list format:

1. “Five Magics” from ‘Rust in Peace’ (1990, Capitol Records)

“Five Magics,” authored by Dave Mustaine, is a standout track from Megadeth’s critically acclaimed album ‘Rust in Peace.’ Released in 1990 under Capitol Records, this song is a masterclass in technical proficiency, showcasing the band’s ability to blend complex arrangements with hard-hitting metal. The song delves into themes of alchemy and mysticism, setting it apart from the typical metal narrative. What makes “Five Magics” particularly special is the intricate guitar work by Mustaine and Marty Friedman, coupled with the thunderous rhythm section of David Ellefson on bass and Nick Menza on drums. It’s a track that demonstrates Megadeth’s musical depth and deserves more spotlight for its innovative approach.

2. “Poison Was the Cure” from ‘Rust in Peace’ (1990, Capitol Records)

Another gem from ‘Rust in Peace,’ “Poison Was the Cure” is written by Dave Mustaine. This 1990 release under Capitol Records is an intense, fast-paced track that encapsulates the essence of thrash metal. The song’s lyrics, reflecting on addiction and recovery, are deeply personal to Mustaine, adding a layer of authenticity and emotion. The rapid-fire guitar riffs and solos, combined with the relentless drumming of Nick Menza, create a sense of urgency that grips the listener. This song is a testament to Megadeth’s ability to weave personal stories into powerful music, making it a must-listen for fans seeking a deeper understanding of the band’s artistry.

3. “Take No Prisoners” from ‘Rust in Peace’ (1990, Capitol Records)

“Take No Prisoners,” penned by Dave Mustaine, is a high-octane track from the 1990 album ‘Rust in Peace,’ released by Capitol Records. This song is a showcase of Megadeth’s aggressive musical style, with its relentless pace and ferocious guitar work. The lyrics, filled with war imagery and a no-holds-barred attitude, reflect the band’s confrontational and unapologetic nature. The combination of Mustaine’s and Friedman’s guitar prowess, along with Ellefson’s driving bass and Menza’s explosive drumming, makes this track a thrilling listen. It’s a song that embodies the spirit of thrash metal and is a hidden jewel in Megadeth’s catalog.

4. “Dread and the Fugitive Mind” from ‘The World Needs a Hero’ (2001, Sanctuary Records)

From the 2001 album ‘The World Needs a Hero,’ released under Sanctuary Records, “Dread and the Fugitive Mind” is a creation of Dave Mustaine. This song stands out for its melodic approach, blending heavy riffs with a more accessible sound. The lyrics, exploring themes of paranoia and inner turmoil, are delivered with Mustaine’s signature snarl. The musicianship is top-notch, with Al Pitrelli’s guitar work adding a new dimension to the band’s sound, alongside Jimmy DeGrasso’s dynamic drumming. This track is a testament to Megadeth’s ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their metal roots, making it a hidden gem in their discography.

5. “Ashes in Your Mouth” from ‘Countdown to Extinction’ (1992, Capitol Records)

“Ashes in Your Mouth,” written by Dave Mustaine, Marty Friedman, David Ellefson, and Nick Menza, is a track from the 1992 album ‘Countdown to Extinction,’ released by Capitol Records. This song is a masterful blend of technical skill and lyrical depth, addressing the consequences of war and human conflict. The interplay between Mustaine’s and Friedman’s guitars creates a rich, layered sound, while Ellefson’s bass and Menza’s drums provide a solid foundation. The song’s complex structure and thought-provoking lyrics showcase Megadeth’s musical maturity, making it a standout track that deserves more recognition.

6. “My Last Words” from ‘Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?’ (1986, Capitol Records)

“My Last Words,” a creation of Dave Mustaine, is from the 1986 album ‘Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?’ released under Capitol Records. This track is a thrilling display of Megadeth’s early sound, combining raw energy with intricate musicianship. The song’s theme revolves around Russian roulette, adding a sense of danger and suspense to the lyrics. Mustaine’s and Chris Poland’s guitar work is exceptional, delivering fast-paced riffs and solos that keep the listener on edge. Gar Samuelson’s drumming adds to the intensity, making “My Last Words” a powerful and underrated piece in the band’s early repertoire.

7. “Hook in Mouth” from ‘So Far, So Good… So What!’ (1988, Capitol Records)

“Hook in Mouth,” penned by Dave Mustaine and David Ellefson, is from the 1988 album ‘So Far, So Good… So What!’ released by Capitol Records. This song is a fiery critique of censorship and the PMRC, showcasing Megadeth’s willingness to tackle controversial topics. The driving riffs and aggressive rhythm section, with Chuck Behler on drums, create a sense of defiance that’s palpable throughout the track. Mustaine’s snarling vocals and Jeff Young’s guitar solos add to the song’s confrontational tone. “Hook in Mouth” is a testament to the band’s ability to blend social commentary with hard-hitting metal, making it a standout track that often goes overlooked.

8. “Return to Hangar” from ‘The World Needs a Hero’ (2001, Sanctuary Records)

“Return to Hangar,” authored by Dave Mustaine, is a sequel to the classic “Hangar 18” and appears on the 2001 album ‘The World Needs a Hero,’ released under Sanctuary Records. This track revisits the themes of alien encounters and government conspiracy with a fresh perspective. The musicianship is top-notch, with Al Pitrelli’s guitar work complementing Mustaine’s, and Jimmy DeGrasso’s drumming providing a solid backbone. The song’s narrative continuity and musical prowess make it a fascinating addition to Megadeth’s catalog, offering a new chapter to a beloved story while maintaining the band’s signature sound.

9. “Liar” from ‘So Far, So Good… So What!’ (1988, Capitol Records)

“Liar,” written by Dave Mustaine, is a track from the 1988 album ‘So Far, So Good… So What!’ released by Capitol Records. This song is a blistering attack on a former band member, showcasing Mustaine’s raw and unfiltered lyrical style. The fast-paced riffs and aggressive drumming by Chuck Behler create a chaotic and intense atmosphere. Jeff Young’s guitar solos add to the frenetic energy of the track. “Liar” stands out for its directness and ferocity, making it a unique and underrated song in Megadeth’s repertoire, reflecting the band’s tumultuous early years.

10. “The Conjuring” from ‘Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?’ (1986, Capitol Records)

“The Conjuring,” authored by Dave Mustaine, is from the 1986 album ‘Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?’ released under Capitol Records. This track delves into dark themes of witchcraft and black magic, with Mustaine’s lyrics painting a vivid picture. The song’s ominous riffs and haunting melodies create a sinister atmosphere, complemented by Chris Poland’s intricate guitar work and Gar Samuelson’s dynamic drumming. “The Conjuring” is a showcase of Megadeth’s ability to explore dark and complex themes, making it a standout track that often gets overshadowed by the album’s more famous songs.

11. “Kick the Chair” from ‘The System Has Failed’ (2004, Sanctuary Records)

“Kick the Chair,” written by Dave Mustaine, is from the 2004 album ‘The System Has Failed,’ released under Sanctuary Records. This song marks a return to Megadeth’s aggressive roots, with scathing lyrics that critique the justice system. The track features some of Mustaine’s most incisive songwriting, backed by a powerhouse performance from the band. The guitar work is razor-sharp, with Chris Poland making a guest appearance, and the rhythm section of Jimmy DeGrasso on drums and James MacDonough on bass drives the song with relentless energy. “Kick the Chair” is a powerful statement from a reinvigorated Megadeth, deserving of more attention for its raw intensity and social commentary.

Fun Facts: Underrated Megadeth Songs

“Five Magics” from ‘Rust in Peace’

• Intricate Composition: “Five Magics” is known for its complex structure and time changes, making it a favorite among musicians for its technical challenge.
• Inspiration: The song’s title and concept are inspired by the fantasy novel “Master of the Five Magics” by Lyndon Hardy, showcasing Mustaine’s interest in fantasy literature.

“Poison Was the Cure” from ‘Rust in Peace’

• Personal Struggle: The lyrics reflect Dave Mustaine’s personal battle with drug addiction, making it a deeply personal song in Megadeth’s catalog.
• Unique Intro: The song begins with a slow, clean guitar intro before exploding into full thrash metal, a contrast that highlights the song’s theme of transformation.

“Take No Prisoners” from ‘Rust in Peace’

• War Theme: The song’s lyrics are filled with war imagery and references, fitting the album’s overall theme of global conflict and nuclear war.
• Fan Favorite: Despite not being a single, “Take No Prisoners” has become a fan favorite for its aggressive style and is often featured in the band’s live sets.

“Dread and the Fugitive Mind” from ‘The World Needs a Hero’

• Lineup Changes: This track features Al Pitrelli on guitar and Jimmy DeGrasso on drums, showcasing the band’s evolving lineup and sound in the early 2000s.
• Music Video: “Dread and the Fugitive Mind” was one of the few songs from ‘The World Needs a Hero’ to receive a music video, highlighting its significance on the album.

“Ashes in Your Mouth” from ‘Countdown to Extinction’

• Critical Acclaim: The song is often cited by critics and fans alike as one of the best tracks on ‘Countdown to Extinction’, noted for its intricate guitar work and political lyrics.
• Live Rarity: Despite its popularity, “Ashes in Your Mouth” is rarely played live, making it a sought-after experience for fans at Megadeth concerts.

“My Last Words” from ‘Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?’

• Guitar Heroics: The song is renowned for its challenging guitar solos, often hailed as some of the best in Megadeth’s repertoire.
• Russian Roulette: The lyrics’ focus on Russian roulette adds a dark and intense edge to the song, reflecting the band’s penchant for heavy themes.

“Hook in Mouth” from ‘So Far, So Good… So What!’

• PMRC Critique: The song is a direct response to the Parents Music Resource Center (PMRC), reflecting the band’s stance against censorship in music.
• Alphabetical Lyrics: The lyrics cleverly use the alphabet (“A is for…”) as a framework to criticize the PMRC, adding a unique twist to the song’s structure.

“Return to Hangar” from ‘The World Needs a Hero’

• Sequel Song: As a follow-up to “Hangar 18” from ‘Rust in Peace’, this song continues the story of alien encounters, a rare instance of a direct sequel in Megadeth’s music.
• Fan Anticipation: The release of “Return to Hangar” was highly anticipated by fans, eager to hear the continuation of the “Hangar 18” narrative.

“Liar” from ‘So Far, So Good… So What!’

• Band Conflict: The song is a scathing attack on former guitarist Chris Poland, reflecting the internal conflicts within Megadeth at the time.
• Aggressive Style: “Liar” is known for its fast tempo and aggressive style, making it one of the most intense tracks on the album.

“The Conjuring” from ‘Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?’

• Occult Themes: The song’s lyrics delve into occult themes, a topic that Mustaine later distanced himself from, leading to the song being excluded from live sets for many years.
• Musical Complexity: “The Conjuring” is noted for its complex musical arrangements and is considered a highlight of the band’s early technical prowess.

“Kick the Chair” from ‘The System Has Failed’

• Political Commentary: The song’s lyrics offer a critique of the justice system, reflecting Mustaine’s interest in political and social issues.
• Return to Roots: “Kick the Chair” marked a return to the band’s thrash metal roots after experimenting with different styles in the late ’90s, much to the delight of long-time fans.

And there you have it, rockers and headbangers! We’ve journeyed through the lesser-known alleys of Megadeth’s discography, uncovering some real hidden treasures. These tracks aren’t just songs; they’re stories, each with its own unique flavor and intensity. Keep exploring, keep rocking, and remember, there’s always more to discover in the world of metal.

Thanks for reading.

TBone