Megadeth appear to be a foursome again. According to rumors, the group has recruited Lamb of God drummer Chris Adler and Angra guitarist Kiko Loureiro to replace drummer Shawn Drover and guitarist Chris Broderick, who left towards the end of last year
Nothing has been made official, but it is speculated that Adler’s involvement will be restricted to the recording of Megadeth’s new album, which will begin March 17 in Nashville. Less is known about Loureiro’s role, but on March 10, Dave Mustaine tweeted, “I’m excited to be auditioning one of my final picks for my new guitarist today.” It’s unknown if he was referring to Loureiro, a veteran of the Brazil metal scene.
Drover and Broderick departed last November, with Drover saying he wanted “to pursue my own musical interests” while Broderick cited “artistic and musical differences.” The news prompted Jeff Young, who played in the band from 1987-89, to proudly declare, “The band is done. Put a fork in it.”
However, bassist David Ellefson negated all talk of breaking up in an online chat shortly thereafter. And earlier this year, Ellefson said that the lineup will “naturally evolve around” the musicians the band brings in for the new record, which they anticipate to be out at some point in 2015.
Megadeth have weathered numerous turnovers of drummers and guitarists since Mustaine and Ellefson founded the band in 1983. Mustaine is the only constant, with Ellefson waiting until 2010 to re-join the band after their 2002-04 hiatus.
