Review - The World Needs a Hero

2001 is here and most of the '80s metal bands have changed musically, for better or worse. The Dave Mustaine-led group Megadeth is no exception, having gone in both directions throughout its storied history. "The World Needs a Hero" revisits Mustaine's old-school metal stomping grounds, Vic Rattle-head cover mascot and all.

The huge void left by departed guitarist Marty Friedman is ably filled by Al Pitrelli (Asia, Savatage, Trans Siberian Orchestra), who easily outshines Mustaine in the solo department. While Pitrelli shows off his varied skills, Mustaine's sound is repetitive, as two songs have almost the exact same guitar solo. Otherwise, the band is musically solid, delivering the metallic goods. But be prepared to laugh -- the childish lyrics in the songs are a disgrace. On "1000 Times Goodbye," Dave is listening to his girlfriend breaking up with him on the phone, yelling finally, "You suck!" Skip this disaster.