Megadeth
The System Has Failed

THE REVIEW

Sometimes rumors are deceiving.
And that is exactly what happened to yours truly. The warnings from some colleagues about this album and its real substance were too cruel. Let's clarify right away: It's not a masterpiece, but it's definitely not to be discarded! Especially because one should start from the premise that wherever Mustaine puts his hands, he always pulls something out of the hat, at least on a personal level. The System Has Failed is more than just a musical work:
It's a harsh disappointment towards the American maneuvers of recent years, laced with a deep dismay at the vicious circle hiding behind fake politicians greedy for power and money. And in handling such heavy topics with sarcasm and bitterness, Dave Mustaine is a MASTER.

Starting from the "usual" cover, which depicts the whole merry company, critical of a deceitful system: G.W. Bush naturally carries the flag, the "Clinton couple" are not even distant, and among a collaborator and a Taliban, one also glimpses the figure of Arafat (bless his soul). Thus, the context of the album also takes shape. It's not a "Rust in Peace," we have known this for a while, but it’s more akin to a "Countdown To Extinction." The sounds aren't trash (except for "Kick the Chair," which takes off and never lands), but they have a lot of that 80's heavy metal-hard rock cocktail feel, shaken with the malice that characterizes the undisputed leader of this band, now the sole survivor of 20 years of lineup changes, detoxifications, criticisms, metal milestones, years of decadence, endless tours, and various physical problems.

Speaking of lineup: the newcomers show their talents without any fear. Chris Poland demonstrates his skill, even if overshadowed by Dave in the solo race. Vinnie Colaiuta is the real surprise: he sets the sound and gives each song a decisive rhythm, with the precision and power of a drummer to be respected. Sloas' bass has to coexist with the two aforementioned guitar runners, but when it makes itself heard, it holds its own. "Blackmail The Universe" opens the doors and the drums close the sound. Then Mustaine takes over (We can't go to war/ Remember that "Vietnam thing"). In all the tracks, we find very interesting solos, a clear response from Dave to his former Metallica mates (St. Anger, ed.). "Die Dead Enough" is not bad, perhaps too "techy." "The Scorpion" has a set start and a power-like refrain. "Back In The Day" is the best thing on the album: a very similar start to "Holy Wars," lots of solos, lyrics dedicated to metal, and an ending in pure Maiden style! "Tears In A Vial," "Something That I'm Not," "Truth Be Told" (where even Bin Laden is named!!) and "My Kingdom" are useless and banal. "Shadow of Deth" is a Morbid Angel moment with a "Auxilium meum a Domino" introduction. The 39 seconds of "I Know Jack" are not disgusting, quite the opposite. "Of Mice And Men" is nice.

The album is more than sufficient, however, you must first understand that we are in 2005 and the good old days are far away. So one must settle for a welcome return. "The Leader" said that this album is the swan song and that the ongoing official tour will be the last.
But trust me, don't listen to him... that guy is all ego...