Megadeth
Risk

September 1999
Released: 1999, Capital Records
Rating: 2.5/5
Reviewer: Pete

Well, hope you weren't holding your breath on this one. Believe me, I've spun this one a number of times hoping it would take, but with each listen I just became less interested. This month Megadave & co. (dis)grace us with their latest and aptly titled "Risk" - their first with new drummer Jimmy D'grasso. Tossed this one for EvilG and he couldn't make it past track 2(hehehe). Well people, the days of Rust In Peace and Peace Sells are long gone. Megadeth continue down the slick path started back on Youthanasia, this time including industrial samples, tambourines, hand claps, loops,etc.. I'll give 'em credit, it's growth I guess, but in some fans eyes it's in the wrong direction. From the Arabic industrial-tinged opener "Insomnia" the ridiculous "Enter the Arena, sports anthem "Crush 'Em" and probably Megadeth's most commercial moment yet - "Breadline", this album kinda spirals downhill quickly. Where's the riffs????Where's the anger?? Where's Marty Friedman??? Not shredding here I assure you. I would expect something of more substance from Megadeth but who am I kidding???? Aftr all, Mustane and co. seem to be more concerned scoring points with radio then with their fans.