David Ellefson—co-founder of Megadeth, bassist extraordinaire, and now one-third of the extreme metal powerhouse Dieth—sat down with MetalgodZradiO for a wide-ranging conversation. Speaking from Germany while on a press run for Dieth's new album, Ellefson opened up about life on the road, musical evolution, his love of coffee, and why he's still turning up the heat after decades in the metal scene.
Life in Europe: Coffee, Culture & Metal
Ellefson is currently in Germany and enjoying the local brews—not the beer, but the coffee.
“The coffee is amazing,” he shares. “I was in Amsterdam a couple of days ago. Their coffee shops, of course, are a little... different. But yeah, Europe’s great—the people, the food, the metal... it’s all good.”
Even hotel room instant coffee in France earns his approval:
“It’s not Sanka like back home. There’s something about the ingredients over here—it’s actually good!”
He even travels with a French press and his favorite beans, underscoring his commitment to caffeine and comfort while on tour.
From the El Dorado Saloon to Arco Arena
Ellefson has fond memories of Sacramento, where MetalgodZradiO is based.
“I remember playing the El Dorado Saloon on Thanksgiving one year. We got catered turkey and stuffing in Styrofoam containers, but I was just there to melt faces. Turkey’s always second to rock.”
He also recalls playing the Arco Arena during Countdown to Extinction with punk icon Jello Biafra hanging backstage.
The New Dieth Album: A Fresh Start with Heavy Roots
Dieth’s new record is drawing attention for its heavy sound and musical depth.
“Every record is different. This one’s not just heavy—it’s musical. I’d compare it to something like Countdown to Extinction or Cryptic Writings. I even rediscovered Youthanasia recently—great record, great playing.”
He appreciates the ability to create more freely now:
“I get to do it the way I want to. This band came together for a reason. It’s not a nostalgia act—it’s fresh, forward-looking metal.”
Vinyl, Concept Albums, and the Lost Art of Flow
The album has a conceptual flow, even if that wasn’t the original plan. Side A and B matter again, especially now that vinyl is back.
“The other night I heard our vinyl for the first time in Amsterdam. It sounded so good. There’s a depth to it you just don’t get with digital.”
He reminisces about albums where side B mattered—Boston, KISS Destroyer—and how Dieth's record follows that tradition.
From Mary Jane to Paranormal Encounters
A fan asked about the origins of “Mary Jane,” a Megadeth classic.
“The legend was that Mary Jane Twilliger was a witch buried alive by her father. When Dave [Mustaine] came back to meet my family in Minnesota, we visited the grave and got inspired.”
Years later, Ellefson opened a coffee shop in that same hometown and even hosted a paranormal team there:
“They brought out mics and meters... seems like they picked up something. Or maybe it was just spooky!”
On Working with Legends and Legacy
From Soulfly to Ministry to Ronnie Montrose, Ellefson’s résumé spans genres and generations.
“I’ve done the one thing with Megadeth for years. Now I love playing with different people. I’ve learned to be open. Music is what leads me—not ego, not fear, just a genuine love for the craft.”
That philosophy is what fuels Dieth, too. Despite members coming from bands like Decapitated and Entombed A.D., they aren’t stuck in the past.
“Our past got us in the room. But once we were there, it was about who we are now—and what we’re creating together.”
Becoming a Frontman? Singing a Ballad? Sure, Why Not.
Ellefson surprises fans with his vocals on the heartfelt ballad “Walk With Me Forever.”
“I’m not trying to be a frontman. But why not? I’ve learned to say yes to new things. The best path to the end zone isn’t always straight. Sometimes you’ve got to zigzag.”
Farm Roots, Rock Ethics
Raised on a Minnesota farm, Ellefson credits his work ethic to his upbringing.
“You can BS people in music, but not on the farm. If you don’t plant the seed, we’ll know in October. It taught me to keep it real.”
And now, post-Megadeth and post-pandemic, he’s embracing this second act.
“I wanted to build my life so I could always be available to play music. I’ve raised my kids, and now it’s my time again. And I’m loving every minute of it.”
Final Thoughts
As the interview wraps up, Ellefson offers a heartfelt message to his fans:
“Thanks for hanging with me on this journey. Life isn’t a noun—it’s a verb. We’re always moving. So let’s keep moving together.”
Dieth’s debut album is available now on vinyl, CD, and streaming platforms. Don’t miss it—it’s not just a return; it’s a reinvention.
Stream To Hell and Back wherever you get your music.
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