"Rust in Peace" is the fourth studio album by Megadeth, released on September 24, 1990, by Capitol Records. This album marked the first appearance of guitarist Marty Friedman and drummer Nick Menza, contributing to its distinctive sound. Notable tracks include "Hangar 18" and "Holy Wars... The Punishment Due," both of which were released as singles. A remixed and remastered version, featuring four bonus tracks, was issued in 2004.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest thrash metal albums ever, Rust in Peace has been praised by publications like Decibel and Kerrang! and is featured in the book 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die. The album received a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance at the 33rd Grammy Awards and won accolades at the 1991 Foundations Forum, including "Top Radio Album" and "Top Radio Cut" for "Hangar 18." Its impact on the genre solidifies its status as a classic.
In 1988, Megadeth played at the Monsters of Rock festival in Donington Park, UK, alongside major acts like Iron Maiden and Guns N' Roses, performing for over 100,000 fans. However, the band faced challenges afterward, with bassist David Ellefson's drug problems leading to their withdrawal from the European tour. Frontman Dave Mustaine subsequently fired drummer Chuck Behler and guitarist Jeff Young, canceling a planned Australian tour.
Nick Menza, Behler's drum tech, was brought in as the new drummer. The search for a new guitarist was lengthy; Mustaine considered various musicians, including Dimebag Darrell of Pantera and Jeff Waters of Annihilator. Original guitarist Chris Poland almost rejoined but was discouraged by his manager. Ultimately, Mustaine auditioned Marty Friedman after hearing his album Dragon's Kiss, leading to the formation of what fans recognize as the 'classic' Megadeth lineup.
The title Rust in Peace was inspired by a bumper sticker Mustaine saw, reading "May all your nuclear weapons rust in peace." The album was recorded at Rumbo Recorders with producer Mike Clink, although much of the work was driven by Mustaine, due to Clink's commitments to Guns N' Roses' Use Your Illusion albums.
The artwork, created by Ed Repka, features band mascot Vic Rattlehead and world leaders of the time observing an alien body, referencing the song "Hangar 18." The figures depicted include notable leaders like Mikhail Gorbachev and George H. W. Bush, with Rattlehead holding an object resembling Kryptonite.
