I know that there was probably some wonder of how I was going to come up with these songs, but I have never wondered, and the songs I have heard so far are kewl to me, and we keep making little slight adjustments which improves the song most of the time. I also have just enough humility to know when a change has not made a song better, and to go with what is best for the song.
Of the four songs we have demo'd up (without lyrics) there are fast and slow elements in each song. I am ok with the way that the parts are shaping up, and since the finished project is always better than the drawing board, I am just going to relax and sit back and watch how things unfold themselves. It gets too overwhelming with all of the complaints on how to make the next record and what I am doing wrong, and how we are too this or too that to matter to metal fans, and I just shake my head and laugh.
In the studio, I love how when I am talking about a drum part needing a double-bass part or a real frantic drum performance, that Shawn keeps going, "I know what he wants!" and then he runs out to the live room and does it. What a luxury to have him sitting there, and have him help feel the little nuances and make them standout! I knew this was going to be a much better recording when we started it. It is not going to be a speed metal/thrash metal record from 1980's or 1990's. It is almost 2010 and I am happy with my playing, especially since at one time I couldn't play anymore.
So, I have a lot to be grateful for. Yeah, it gets disappointing to read the posts that are constantly bagging on me, Megadeth, my music, or just anything that has to do with my life, and I know that there are a lot of people here that see this too, and disagree. I just ask that you remember, in order to not be perceived as unfair, we allow a certain level of counter-Megadeth opinions to be post here; its just that sometimes people go too far.
Take this new record. Half of the complaints come from people who can't play an instrument and have no idea how hard these parts really are, because they are not what they seem to the human ear, and how they are actually played. Ask any of the guitar-heroes that have played in Megadeth and they will tell you that it is a lot harder than it looks. And besides, who in their right mind would let a complaining fan change the way that music is expressed from your very soul. This isn't just making stuff up for the money. I actually really love to play and be in front of you an entertain you.
We have also documented the way that the industry has changed and dictated that way that bands had to operate. Just because you have been a fan for several years doesn't mean you understand what it is like when you are told that your record is not getting picked and you did everything to make it work, and it is because of something you "said" or "did" and nothing to do with the musical merit of the band or the songs. Face it, there are still assholes out there who are holding the grudge and keeping it alive. I just did a search and there are thousands of sites on me and what I think of someones new album – this is an outright lie. I didn't post or say anything, because I have zero to say for the first time in my life about it.
But this is just as preposterous as the several dozen sites on Facebook and elsewhere with impostors acting like they are me. I don't know what I find more ignorant, the impostor or the people who carry on these relationships with these impostors. I was talking to justis and his guitarist yesterday, and telling them how terrible people will be, how they will love you, and turn on you, and how to keep from letting it break you down. People just love to hurt other people; especially anonymously over the net.
Megadeth.com is not one of those places. So, if you come here and slag me, you can be sure that it will be allowed for a while, but that you won't make a like of friends here, and that you really won't enjoy your experience here like the people who know me do, when we talk about music or travel, or even coffee, whatever! This site and the people here are here for the lifestyle, for the friendships that are made here, for the great environment, as well as for the informative music authorities, for the musicians and international forums. The list goes on and on.
May I get back to the new record? Ok, well I was saying that I like just everything about it; the sound, the environment, the fact that we are constantly having successful meetings around the studio, the client list is growing, and so on, and so on. Speaking of successful meetings, this week so far, we have met with our merchandise company FEA and started the artwork for the Priest Feast tour, as well as our own new merchandise line for the next world tour.
I also met with Kevin Dees, and two of his associates about me having a radio show on the DEES Radio network that would bring something even kewler to Megadeth.com. This is new and on its way, so we will keep you posted on this exciting new development. Please stand by for this one.
Next, I have seen the new DEAN guitar that they are going to unveil at the NAMM 2009. I am sure a lot of you will see it at this years trade show in Anahiem, Cal., and just a hint, it is a graphic guitar with some RIP artwork on it.
And lastly, I received a top secret "box" shipped from my good friends at Marshall. All I have to say is, "WOW!" You are going to die when you see (or more) what I see.
I love you and we'll talk again soon,
Until then, Eat Metal!"
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