Guitarist David Mustaine says he wants Megadeth and Metallica to tour together to "set things straight."
Before forming Megadeth, Mastin was the lead guitarist for Metallica, but was fired from the band shortly before their debut album in 1983. He long claimed to have written “a lot” of the music that helped define Metallica’s sound, and relations between the two parties have been strained ever since.
Megadeth is preparing to say goodbye with a final album and a farewell tour. The album features a cover of Metallica's "Ride the Lightning," which Mustaine co-wrote and was featured on their second album. By releasing his version, David wanted to show a "respectful" gesture.
"I really respect James (Hetfield)'s guitar playing. And I think Lars (Ulrik) is an extraordinary songwriter. I really enjoyed my time with them. That's why it was so hard for me when it all ended. This is my way of closing the circle and showing my respect," Mustaine stressed, adding that the cover was not intended as a farewell to his former bandmates.
"I didn't mean it that way, no. I loved that time. It was a lot of fun. We were dangerous. But no, there's no hidden agenda... This is a show of respect... I liked [Hetfield and Ulrik]."
He admits that he would be open to renewing his friendship with Metallica, although he believes the "misunderstandings" surrounding their breakup would make it difficult.
"If the friendship were renewed, I wouldn't mind. I would accept it and I think it would be nice to remember those times. But it would be hard not to mention the past," the guitarist is honest.
However, Mastein believes there is one scenario that could help reconcile old wounds - a joint Megadeth-Metallica tour.
"I think we need to go on a joint tour and that's it. That, I'm sure, would put everything in order. We could spend time together. But I know they don't have tours like ours. When we go on tour, we play many, many concerts," he concluded.
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