Thrash metal titans Megadeth have unleashed a rapid-fire new single and video titled “Let There Be Shred!” as the world prepares for their seventeenth and final studio album. Dropping January 23 via Dave Mustaine’s Tradecraft imprint and Frontiers Label Group, the self-titled record ‘Megadeth’ marks the end of a legendary recording career that has spanned over forty years and fifty million album sales. The new track serves as a ferocious manifesto featuring jaw-dropping riffs and what Mustaine describes as a tsunami of sound. Directed by Keith Leman, the accompanying video showcases the band’s signature fretboard ferocity alongside mixed martial arts stunts that pay tribute to the frontman’s personal mentors in the fighting arts.
The excitement surrounding the final album continues to build with several massive global events scheduled for early next year. Fans can experience ‘Megadeth’ in full during the worldwide cinematic event “Megadeth: Behind the Mask” which hits over one thousand theaters on January 22. This immersive film features a career-spanning retrospective interview with Mustaine and a track-by-track breakdown of the new music. Additionally, an exclusive listening event titled “Let There Be Shred: The Ultimate Megadeth Immersive Listening Event” will take place on January 17 in La Vergne, Tennessee. These celebrations provide a rare opportunity for the Cyber Army to connect with the band’s legacy just before the music officially lands.
Looking ahead to 2026, the group is preparing for their epic farewell trek titled “This Was Our Life World Tour” which includes a highly anticipated winter run across Canada. Starting February 15 in Victoria and visiting major cities like Calgary and Toronto, these shows will feature support from fellow thrash legends Anthrax. The finality of the project is underscored by the inclusion of a reimagined version of “Ride The Lightning” as a bonus track, bringing Mustaine’s journey full circle. This massive global send-off will eventually see the band joining Iron Maiden for the North American leg of the “Run For Your Lives Tour” later in the summer.

