The David Ellefson Show

This week on The David Ellefson Show, David and co-host Joshua Toomey welcome Flotsam and Jetsam vocalist Eric A.K. for a conversation spanning more than four decades of thrash metal history. Eric joins the show to discuss the band’s new album, Rats in the Temple, how Flotsam and Jetsam approach songwriting today, and the major impact drummer Ken Mary has had on the band’s sound and recording process.Eric also takes a trip down memory lane, remembering Flotsam and Jetsam’s history with Megadeth, including touring together during the Peace Sells...But Who’s Buying? era and the camaraderie that developed on the road. The conversation also turns to the 1995 tour with Megadeth, Fear Factory and a then-up-and-coming Korn, with Eric sharing stories about meeting Korn before they became one of the biggest bands in metal. From the early days of thrash to the evolution of Flotsam and Jetsam and the making of Rats in the Temple* this episode is packed with metal history, road stories and a look at what keeps Flotsam and Jetsam moving forward.

Join the Substack for David's Megadeth stories, Metal Church updates and substack only questions for the guests at DavidEllefson.substack.com

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David Ellefson and co-host Joshua Toomey welcome Kamelot founder and guitarist Thomas Youngblood to the show for an in-depth conversation about the band's highly anticipated new album, Dark Asylum. Thomas discusses the creative process behind the new record and collaborating with Ignacia Fernandez (Miss World Chile). He also previews The Dark Asylum Tour featuring Visions of Atlantis and Frozen Crown, along with the band's own two-day destination festival, KamFest, and what fans can expect from these upcoming live events. The conversation also takes a nostalgic turn as Thomas reflects on growing up in the Tampa Bay area during one of heavy metal's most influential eras. He shares memories of the region's rich musical history, the bands that helped shape the scene, and how those experiences continue to influence Kamelot's sound today. The guys wrap things up by talking about the evolution of live performances, creating immersive stage productions, recording albums from home studios, and balancing modern technology with the epic theatrical experience Kamelot fans have come to expect. It's a fascinating discussion covering songwriting, touring, and the future of one of symphonic metal's most enduring bands.Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour

David Ellefson and co-host Joshua Toomey welcome guitarist and vocalist Ira Black to the show to discuss his explosive new project, APOCÆLYPSE. Known for his incredible versatility and years as one of metal’s most dependable fill-in guitarists, Ira opens up about stepping into the spotlight as the frontman of his own band and embracing the challenge of becoming a singer. The conversation dives into Ira’s impressive career, from shredding with Dokken to I Am Morbid, and how he built a reputation as the guitarist bands call when they need someone to step in and deliver. The guys also explore how APOCÆLYPSE came together, the creative vision behind the project, and the process of writing and recording new music. Ira discusses the band’s early momentum, shooting videos, and what fans can expect from this exciting new chapter in his career.

Join the Substack for David's Megadeth stories, Metal Church updates and substack only questions for the guests at DavidEllefson.substack.com

Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdes

For David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.com

Follow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefson

Follow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast

#megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour

David Ellefson and co-host Joshua Toomey welcome Savatage and Trans-Siberian Orchestra guitarist Chris Caffery to the show for a deep dive into the newly released live album, Madness Reigns From The Gutter. Chris shares the incredible story behind the 1990 recording, why it remained in the vault for decades, and what finally brought it to fans. He also reflects on joining Savatage at just 19 years old, hitting the road with Megadeth early in his career, spending time with Chuck Schuldiner at Morrisound Studios in Tampa, landing his first gig in Heaven at only 17, and the humorous story of becoming the first "Chris Caffery" in Savatage. It's a conversation packed with metal history, unforgettable tour stories, and a look back at one of heavy metal's most influential eras.Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour

On this episode of David Ellefson Show, David and cohost Joshua Toomey take a break from guest interviews and catch up on everything happening in their worlds. David talks about stepping on stage for his first gig with Metal Church, shares his thoughts on the growing use of amp modelers in modern live rigs, and reflects on how getting to tour the world is still one of the greatest privileges of being a musician. Joshua recaps the latest Primer 55 run alongside Spineshank and Hed PE, including the incredible experience of performing in front of a massive crowd at Welcome to Rockville. It’s a laid-back conversation filled with road stories, gear talk, and a reminder of why heavy music and live performance continue to connect fans all over the world.

Today's episode is brought to you by Rockabilia.com, Use code: DAVID10 for 10% Off your order. 100% authentic band merch since 1987!

Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdes

For David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.com

Follow David on Social Media
linktr.ee/davidellefson

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linktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast

#megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour