The 5 Albums That Dave Mustaine Picked As Some Of His Favorites

Dave Mustaine picks some of his favorite music albums of all time. Megadeth‘s frontman Dave Mustaine is a well-known guitarist and he enjoys adding unique guitar techniques and styles to his music and solos for Megadeth‘s band. In this article, we will detail the albums that Dave Mustaine picked as his favorite of all time.

Dave Mustaine was born on September 13, 1961, in La Mesa, California. His passion for music ignited at a young age, and he quickly developed exceptional guitar skills and songwriting abilities. Mustaine initially gained recognition as a member of Metallica, one of the pioneering bands in the thrash metal movement. However, his time with Metallica was short-lived, leading to his departure and the birth of Megadeth in 1983.

Mustaine’s mission with Megadeth is to create a distinct sound that would push the boundaries of traditional heavy metal. “Killing Is My Business… and Business Is Good!” (1985), the band’s debut album, highlighted their raw ferocity, technical prowess, and thought-provoking lyrics. Megadeth stands apart from their peers due to their ferocious riffs, elaborate guitar solos, and Mustaine’s unusual vocals.

Megadeth‘s following albums, notably “Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?” (1986), “Rust in Peace” (1990), and “Countdown to Extinction” (1992), takes their place as one of metal’s most influential bands of all time. Also, Dave Mustaine‘s lyrics covered a wide range of topics, including political and social commentary as well as personal difficulties. 

Dave Mustaine‘s guitar playing is defined by his tone, fast speed, and complex riffs. His unique structural technique mixed aspects of thrash, speed, and progressive metal, resulting in a dynamic and multifaceted sound. Mustaine’s solos are magnificent demonstrations of technical prowess, lyrical phrasing, and emotional depth that captivate listeners with their sheer intensity and brilliance.

The influence of Dave Mustaine on the metal genre cannot be emphasized. His songs, guitar skills, and imposing stage presence have influenced countless musicians and bands worldwide.

Megadeth’s music set new benchmarks for intensity, energy, and technicality, influencing the creation of subgenres such as thrash, speed, and progressive metal.

Mustaine‘s talent and determination in crushing his personal obstacles have made him a character of inspiration for many fans, in addition to his musical accomplishments.

Dave Mustaine’s Favorite Albums of All Time

Dave Mustaine has also been known to share his respect for musicians that trying to the world better every day. Mustaine picks his favorite albums of all time. He also loves to listen to so many genres from classic rock to heavy metal.

Dave Mustaine also talked about the upcoming and new Megadeth album:

“We are super close to having ‘The Sick, The Dying And The Dead’ out. We’ve been mixing and mastering it, and the mastering was done yesterday. So now it’s off to the label, and pretty soon it’s gonna be in your very talented hands.

The song itself was a historical journey of how the plague started and where it went, starting with rats on ships carrying the disease, coming ashore in Sicily. A lot of the riffs have been saved over time. A brand new song can be made up of something I wrote when I was 15 or 55. If It’s a good riff, I’ll save it.”

However, it is time to reveal Dave Mustaine’s favorite albums.

What music albums does Dave Mustaine like?

• Ace Of Spades – Motörhead
• Changesonebowie – David Bowie
• Phenomenon – UFO
• Love – Aztec Camera
• Angel – Angel 

Dave Mustaine revealed in an interview with Metal Hammer magazine the Top 5 Albums of All Time. Here is the Dave Mustaine picks albums as follows and check out the lists below!

1. Ace Of Spades – Motörhead

This timeless classic, released in 1980, soon established itself as a cornerstone in rock music history. Motörhead, led by frontman Lemmy Kilmister, released an unusual storm of relentless energy, harsh lyrics, and ear-shattering riffs that forever shaped the genre.

The album begins with “Ace of Spades,” a single song that became the band’s hallmark tune. The song enthralled listeners and established Motörhead as a force to be assumed with, thanks to its booming guitar riff and Lemmy’s trademark gravelly vocals. It’s catchy chorus and shameless attitude brilliantly defined the band’s mentality, transforming it into a lasting classic that still elicits boisterous headbanging to this day.

Songs like “Love Me Like a Reptile,” “Shoot You in the Back,” and “The Hammer” exude persistent ferocity and energy, highlighting the band’s savage musicianship. The combination of Lemmy’s bass playing, frequently referred to as a “wall of sound,” “Fast” Eddie Clarke’s blazing guitar work, and Phil “Philthy Animal” Taylor’s thundering drumming formed a sonic onslaught that was both primal and masterful.

“Ace of Spades” explores themes of rebellion, desire, and the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle in its lyrics. Lemmy’s brutal storytelling and inimitable lyrical style provided insight into both his own experiences and the world of excess and depravity that typified rock music in the 1980s.

While the title adjusts remains the album’s most renowned treasure, “Ace of Spades” also has hidden jewels that deserve to be recognized. “The Chase Is Better Than the Catch” stands out as a slower-paced, blues-infused track that demonstrates Motörhead’s musical flexibility. “The Hammer,” the album’s closing track, gives a perfectly explosive conclusion, leaving listeners wanting more of the band’s high-octane sound.

“Ace of Spades” by Motörhead redefined the heavy metal genre, laying the path for countless bands who followed. Its influence on popular music and culture cannot be highlighted.

Dave Mustaine shared why he likes “Ace of Spades” by Motörhead as one of his favorite albums of all time:

“I have to go back to Motorhead again. You could say that the guitar playing on Iron Maiden’s Killers [album] is up there.

That was an important record for me too, but the tempo wasn’t as breakneck as the faster Motorhead tracks. They’re the perfect band for speeding… or going to jail! (laughs)”

2. Changesonebowie – David Bowie

“Changesonebowie,” released in 1976, is a clear vision of David Bowie‘s ever-evolving artistic career. This compilation album highlights one of music’s most renowned and influential characters’ incredible talent and chameleon-like personality. “Changesonebowie” gives listeners on a thrilling trip through Bowie’s early triumphs, chart-topping hits, and groundbreaking transformations with its carefully picked selection of music.

The album begins with the ethereal and introspective “Space Oddity,” a tune that catapulted Bowie to stardom and established him as a visionary musician. Its captivating storyline and evocative soundscapes encapsulate Bowie’s early cosmic folk sound.

The album then also moves into the glam rock era with the electric anthem “Starman,” a song.

“Changesonebowie” highlights Bowie’s many musical environments over his career. From the soulful and introspective “Changes” to the catchy beats of “Golden Years,” the album exemplifies Bowie’s incredible ability to reinvent himself and seamlessly cross genres.

Some of Bowie’s most famous hits are also included in the collection. “Young Americans” is a funky and enticing blend of soul and R&B that demonstrates Bowie’s ability to embrace new forms and experiment with his sound. “Fame,” a duet with John Lennon, became a chart-topping hit and demonstrated Bowie’s desire to push boundaries and venture into new artistic fields.

“Changesonebowie” shows the spirit of Bowie’s constant transformation, emphasizing the transformative aspect of both his music and appearance. Whether he was playing the intriguing Ziggy Stardust or the exquisite Thin White Duke, Bowie continually questioned and broke conventional limits.

Dave Mustaine explains why he likes “Changesonebowie” by David Bowie as one of his favorite albums of all time:

“The first album I ever actually owned was Kiss, Hotter Than Hell. But I stole that one. At the high school I went to there were a couple of really great players that were in the little circle I was in.

There were the jocks and the stoners, and the majority of the stoners played, and these guys played a lot of songs from Bowie’s catalogue. Diamond Dogs was one of the songs I really dug, and Rebel Rebel was cool. I’ve got to say that the lyrics to Diamond Dogs just resonated with me and where my life was going. ‘As they pulled you out of the oxygen tent, you asked for the latest party…’ Well, if that didn’t sound like me back then, I don’t know what did, you know?”

3. Phenomenon – UFO

“Phenomenon” by UFO, released in 1974, is a legendary album that displays the peak of classic hard rock. The British band’s musicianship, compelling composition, and perfect blend of thunderous riffs and melodic sensibility are all on display on this thrilling record. “Phenomenon” cemented UFO’s position as a major force in the rock music industry with its infectious energy and unforgettable tracks.

“Phenomenon” immediately gets the listener’s attention with its hard-hitting guitar riffs and strong vocals from the minute the opening track, “Oh My,” starts in. Lead vocalist Phil Mogg’s captivating and energetic delivery is supported by Michael Schenker’s searing guitar work, which shines throughout the album.

“Doctor Doctor,” a hard rock song that has become a fixture in UFO’s live performances, is one of the album’s highlight tracks.

The song brilliantly shows the band’s ability to merge melodic sensibilities with an aggressive edge, with its irresistible melodies and catchy chorus. The powerful rhythm section, led by Pete Way on bass and Andy Parker on drums, serves as a sturdy foundation for the song, propelling it forward with unyielding vigor.

With “Phenomenon,” UFO found the perfect balance of heaviness and melody, resulting in an album that appeals to rock lovers of all ages.

“Phenomenon” is an iconic album in UFO‘s discography and a moment in classic hard rock history.

Dave Mustaine tells why he likes “Phenomenon” by UFO as one of his favorite albums of all time:

“It’s either Phenomenon by UFO or Let There Be Rock by AC/DC. Those were the two records I listened to most during that period. Black Sabbath was being played quite a lot too at the same time, but I can’t remember which one it was… I think it had Changes on it!

We would be rolling up 50-cent joints and then Changes would come on and it was my least favourite song, so that’s why I remember that one in particular. But I’ll go with UFO. We listened to that record a lot.”

4. Love – Aztec Camera

“Love” by Aztec Camera, released in 1987, is a masterwork that combines the pop genre with poetic lyricism. “Love” encapsulates the essence of deep emotions, reflection, and the universal experiences of love, led by the songwriting genius of frontman Roddy Frame.

From the first notes of “Still on Fire,” it’s clear that “Love” is a song full of addictive hooks and lush musical arrangements. The combination of jangly guitars, sophisticated drumming, and Frame’s soulful vocals sets the tone for an album that seamlessly blends pop, folk, and alternative rock components. Each tune is painstakingly constructed, demonstrating Aztec Camera’s attention to detail and passion for producing eternal melodies.

The famous track “Somewhere in My Heart” is one of the highlights of “Love.” Its catchy chorus, lively rhythm, and lyrics make it a classic that appeals to listeners of all ages. The irrepressible energy and unabashed optimism of the song wonderfully captures the essence of love and the joy it gives. It is still a fan favorite and a classic in Aztec Camera’s catalog.

“Deep and Wide and Tall” demonstrates Frame’s ability to weave dramatic and introspective topics into his music. The song’s thoughtful lyrics and melodies create a compelling and realistic sense of vulnerability and emotional depth. Similarly, “How Men Are” combines introspective lyrics with a dynamic orchestral backdrop to explore themes of self-discovery and human progress.

Frame’s poetic lyricism comes through throughout “Love,” painting vivid pictures and conveying emotions with astonishing precision. Whether it’s the bittersweet desire in “Killermont Street” or the emotional meditations in “More Than a Law,” his songs have a way of striking a deep chord with listeners, touching on human experiences like love, loss, and self-reflection.

“Love” is an album that bears the test of time, with songs that are as fresh and relevant today as they were when it was released. Its ageless quality attests to Aztec Camera’s songwriting’s enduring appeal and the emotional depth buried within the music.

The album’s beautiful work of melodic brilliance, introspection, and poetic poetry cements its place as an indie pop classic.

Dave Mustaine reveals why he likes “Love” by Aztec Camera as one of his favorite albums of all time:

“We were in Paris and MTV was on. I remember I was really sick at the time, and Roddy Frame was singing Deep And Wide And Tall, and he’s just a really great pop songwriter. You can tell the metal guys that have successful, long-lasting careers are usually people that listen to music outside the obvious realm and have influences from outside metal.

If we’re just repeating what our peers are doing, we’re not really pushing the envelope. I also own a Scritti Politti single called Wood Beez. It came with a turntable that somebody had left at a house that me and David Ellefson moved into, and I just kind of adopted it. It’s a little bit poppy for me.”

5. Angel – Angel 

Angel‘s self-titled album, released in 1975, is a brilliant treasure that represents the rich and musical atmosphere of glam rock. Angel developed a unique place in the rock music scene with their dazzling stage presence, extravagant costumes, and addictive hooks. Their self-titled debut album highlights their larger-than-life sound, merging hard rock, progressive rock, and pop sensibilities into an enthralling auditory experience.

Angel sets the tone for travel from the first track, “Tower,” with its roaring drumming, blazing guitar riffs, and soaring vocal harmonies.

Angel’s self-titled album includes a number of notable songs that highlight their different musical inspirations. Songs like “On and On” and “Rock & Rollers” emanate infectious energy and anthemic choruses, quickly becoming fan favorites.

The band’s musical brilliance is evident in songs like “White Lightning” and “Long Time,” which contain elaborate guitar solos and intricate arrangements that showcase their technical ability.

“Feelin’ Right,” a compelling blend of strong rock and pop sensibilities, is one of the album’s highlight moments. Its catchy hooks, irresistible melody, and sing-along chorus make it a classic glam rock song. Similarly, “The Fortune” demonstrates the band’s ability to compose vast, prog-inspired pieces that take listeners on a sonic journey.

Dave Mustaine shares why he likes “Angel” by Angel as one of his favorite albums of all time:

“They were on Casablanca Records. They were the yin to Kiss’s yang. Kiss were dressed up in black and Angel were in white. They had this remarkable guitar player called Punky Meadows who Frank Zappa actually made fun of in songs. But he had some remarkable songs like Tower and Any Way You Want. They were almost proggish to a degree, but really great songs.

I always wondered about doing a cover of the song Tower. The singer had this really weird voice. You have to be super open-minded to appreciate it because he has such a super-fast vibrato, and a lot of people won’t find that appealing. But they were one of my favorite bands growing up.”

What are your thoughts on Megadeth‘s frontman and lead guitarist Dave Mustaine‘s favorite albums of all time? Let me know in the comment section!