There is so much shredding on "Endgame" that my body is covered in lacerations.

Prior to the album’s release, after hearing just the first single, the classically crafted thrasher ‘Head Crusher’, a smile instantly lit up my face. It was inevitable "Endgame" was gonna be great…right? Did Mustaine deliver, you ask? Well I think its safe to say this is classic Megadeth for today!

"The System Has Failed" and "United Abominations" were both strong albums and can be seen as important stepping stones towards what has been achieved with "Endgame". Former guitarist Glenn Drover was a fine addition and a solid player, but man is new gun slinger Chris Broderick a fluent sweep picking, scale blazing, virtuoso (also do check out Chris’ work on Nevermore’s DVD "Year of the Voyager").

Following instrumental ‘Dialectic Chaos’, ‘This Day We Fight’ is composed within the "Rust In Peace" blueprint embracing the album’s complex aggressive structures. ‘How The Story Ends’ (as with ‘Bite The Hand’) captures the straight forward catchy riffs/arrangements of "Countdown to Extinction". ‘Bodies’ basic form goes back to the underrated "Youthanasia" album, and furious angry "Killing Is My Business" type riffing is part of ‘1,320’s’ design especially in the solo section of the ride out.

Mustaine has met his match in Broderick, who’s talents have obviously breathed new life and creativity into Megadeth, forcing Dave to step up his game. Really, I haven’t heard high octane shredding of this nature on a Megadeth album since "Rust In Peace". And Dave’s vocals as a result also have a little more snarl.

The song ‘Endgame’ is an excellent example of Grade A prime Megadeth with its momentum build up, razor sharp riffing, solos, and progressive changes. It’s like "Rust In Peace" all over again. Adding variety and while keeping in with the album’s consistency, ‘Hardest Part of Letting Go…Sealed With A Kiss’ includes some accenting keys (which are rather European sounding and brings to mind bands like Nightwish and Gamma Ray. Good for you Mr. Mustaine) to this semi ballad/rocker.

Andy Sneap (engineer, producer, etc.) who has worked with some of the best in heavy metal, waves his magic wand once again giving "Endgame" clarity, punch, and a bottom end.

RING RING RING…In the black corner…Metallica’s "Death Magnetic". In the red corner…Megadeth’s "Endgame".

After four rounds the winner is…"Endgame" by a right cross.