Dave Mustaine proposes new ‘Big Four’ of thrash metal

Megadeth leader Dave Mustaine has proposed a potential new ‘Big Four’ of thrash metal, suggesting a lineup of veteran bands rather than a new generation. In an interview with the Czech media outlet Óčko, Mustaine identified Testament, Overkill, and Exodus as primary candidates.

Mustaine highlighted Overkill for its importance to the East Coast metal scene and noted his long-standing friendship with Exodus guitarist Gary Holt. He also praised Testament guitarists Eric Peterson and Alex Skolnick. While he briefly mentioned Trivium as a possible fourth member, he expressed hesitation, stating, ‘Trivium’s not really a thrash metal band, so I’d have to think about that.’

The original ‘Big Four’—Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, and Anthrax—defined the genre's mainstream era and performed together in various reunions between 2010 and 2011.