While Dave Mustaine is primarily recognized for his work with Megadeth and his early days with Metallica, there’s an intriguing chapter in his career that often gets overlooked: his side project from the ’90s, MD.45.
Who Were MD.45?
MD.45 was an eclectic band formed in the mid-’90s, showcasing a unique blend of talent. The initials “MD” represent Mustaine, while “45” is derived from the legendary punk singer Lee Ving’s initials, converted into Roman numerals. Mustaine took the lead on guitar, while Ving, known for his role as the frontman of the punk band FEAR, provided vocals and harmonica.
The lineup was bolstered by bassist Kelly LeMieux, who had previously been with Goldfinger and later joined Ving in FEAR, and drummer Jimmy DeGrasso, whose resume included work with Lita Ford, Ozzy Osbourne, and Alice Cooper, among others.
The Formation of MD.45
The inception of MD.45 came during a turbulent period for Megadeth. After a lengthy tour promoting the Youthanasia album, the band faced internal strife and uncertainty about its future. With the other members hesitant to commit to new material, Mustaine sought an outlet for his creative energy and a chance to explore his punk influences. This led to the collaboration with Ving and the formation of MD.45.
In quick order, the band released their sole studio album, The Craving, in 1996. Some of the tracks had initially been intended for Megadeth, but with the band’s lineup in flux, they found new life within MD.45. Despite the impressive roster, the album failed to chart, and the band did not tour in support of it.
Controversy Surrounding MD.45
Upon release, The Craving did not receive the attention it perhaps deserved, getting somewhat lost in the shuffle of the music scene at the time. In 2004, Mustaine attempted to revive interest in the album by releasing a remastered version. However, this reissue was controversial; Ving’s original vocals were removed, and Mustaine took over lead vocals.
Mustaine later explained in his autobiography that he believed his vocals would attract Megadeth fans who might overlook the original version. Ving expressed his disappointment over the decision to exclude him from the remastered release, stating he wasn’t consulted and felt unprepared for the changes.
Despite the tensions, the two musicians reconciled, culminating in a surprise performance in 2023, where Ving joined Mustaine’s Megadeth for a live rendition of MD.45’s track “Nothing Is Something.”
Musical Style and Legacy
The Craving serves as a noteworthy entry in Mustaine’s discography, allowing him to explore a punk-infused sound outside the confines of Megadeth’s thrash metal framework. Tracks like “Hell’s Hotel,” “The Creed,” and “Day the Music Died” exemplify this energetic and engaging stylistic shift.
Both the original album featuring Ving and the Mustaine-led remaster display a depth that might have warranted more recognition at the time. This project highlights Mustaine’s versatility as a musician, making it worthy of exploration for fans who may have previously overlooked it.
Conclusion
MD.45 remains a fascinating side note in Dave Mustaine’s storied career, showcasing his ability to adapt and experiment with different musical styles. While the project’s initial reception was lukewarm, its legacy has found new life through recent performances and discussions among fans. For those interested in Mustaine’s work beyond Megadeth, MD.45 offers a unique glimpse into his creative process and influences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What was the purpose of forming MD.45?
MD.45 was formed by Dave Mustaine as a side project during a period of uncertainty with Megadeth, allowing him to explore his punk influences and creative ideas without the constraints of his main band.
Who were the members of MD.45?
The band featured Dave Mustaine on guitar, Lee Ving on vocals and harmonica, Kelly LeMieux on bass, and Jimmy DeGrasso on drums.
What is the significance of the album The Craving?
The Craving is significant as it represents Mustaine’s exploration of punk rock influences, showcasing a different musical style compared to Megadeth. It also includes songs that were initially intended for Megadeth, reflecting his broader musical vision.
Was there any controversy surrounding the remaster of The Craving?
Yes, the remaster in 2004 saw Lee Ving’s vocals being replaced by Mustaine’s, which caused controversy as Ving was not consulted about the change, leading to tension between the two musicians.
Did MD.45 perform live?
MD.45 did not tour to support their album, but in 2023, Lee Ving performed with Megadeth, highlighting the enduring connection between the two artists.
