THE STORY OF KINGS OF THRASH
KINGS OF THRASH was formed in April 2022, following a special appearance by Ellefson and Young at Ultimate Jam Night at the legendary Whisky A Go-Go in Hollywood, California. The event was honoring the legendary “Big Four” of thrash metal—Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, and Anthrax.
During the evening, Ellefson and Young performed three classic Megadeth songs alongside vocalist Chaz Leon. The electrifying performance sparked an immediate chemistry that led to the formation of Kings of Thrash.
The band was built around a concept envisioned by Ellefson: creating a live experience celebrating early Megadeth albums and rarely performed deep cuts from his decades-long tenure with the thrash metal pioneers. This vision became known as “The MEGA Years.”
In November 2022, Kings of Thrash took to the stage with four proof-of-concept concerts in San Diego, Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Hollywood. Their performance at the Whisky A Go-Go on the Sunset Strip was filmed and recorded resulting in the acclaimed release “The Best of the West – Live at the Whisky A Go-Go.”
The double live album and DVD were released by Cleopatra Records in Spring 2023 in both digital and vinyl formats.
ORIGINAL MUSIC
In 2025, Cleopatra Records released the band’s first thrash\punk inspired trek, “Lockdown.” With its accompanying music video, directed by KOT drummer Fred Aching, the group distinguished themselves as more than just a nostalgic tribute band.
The new music video for “Bullets Ready” was shot in Hollywood, California and again, directed by Fred Aching. Additional scenes were filmed at the infamous Nelson Valley Ghost Town in El Dorado Valley, Arizona – the same location as seen in the movie, 3000 Miles to Graceland.
Now, with the progressive strains of “Bullets Ready,” Kings of Thrash continues expanding its musical scope, while performing worldwide on their massive Global Thrash Tour. Dates in Canada, US, Norway, Ireland and U.K. are on the docket at www.kingsofthrash.com
“BULLETS READY” – CREDITS
Written by:
music: Jeff Young, David Ellefson
lyrics: Jeff Young, David Ellefson, Chaz Leon, Fred Aching, Gabriel Connor
Musicians:
Jeff Young – Rhythm & Lead Guitars
David Ellefson – Bass
Fred Aching – Drums
Chaz Leon – Vocals
Gabriel Connor – Lead Vocals
Steve Souza – Guest Vocals
Mixed by: Cameron Webb
Engineer Arizona: John Aquilino
Engineer Las Vegas: Jason Froberg
Song Produced by: Kings of Thrash
Video Directed by: Fred Aching and Holly West
A&R by Fred Aching
For more information on all of these events please visit:
Official Website
Facebook
Cleopatra Records
