Megadeth Countdown to Extinction 12" Vinyl LP  Album

"Countdown to Extinction" is the fifth studio album by the American heavy metal band Megadeth. It was released on July 14, 1992 through Capitol Records. "Countdown to Extinction" is Megadeth's best-selling album, eventually achieving double platinum status. The album also produced the band's most successful hit singles, "Symphony of Destruction", "Sweating Bullets", "Skin O' My Teeth" and "Foreclosure of a Dream", videos were made for all singles and also for "High Speed Dirt". 

 

Megadeth Countdown to Extinction 12" Vinyl Album Front Cover Photoa

Album Description:

Countdown to Extinction is the fifth studio album by American heavy metal band Megadeth. It was released on 14 July 1992 through Capitol Records. The album was produced by Max Norman and was the first Megadeth album to feature drummer Nick Menza and bassist David Ellefson since 1987's So Far, So Good... So What!.

Countdown to Extinction was a critical and commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States and selling over 10 million copies worldwide. The album was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in 1993.

The album's sound was a departure from Megadeth's previous albums, which were more aggressive and technical. Countdown to Extinction featured a more melodic and accessible sound, which helped the album to reach a wider audience. The album's lyrics were also more political and socially conscious than previous Megadeth albums.

The album spawned four singles: "Symphony of Destruction", "Sweating Bullets", "Foreclosure of a Dream", and "High Speed Dirt". All four singles were successful on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, with "Symphony of Destruction" reaching number one.

Countdown to Extinction was a major success for Megadeth and helped to solidify their status as one of the leading heavy metal bands in the world. The album's success helped to introduce Megadeth to a new generation of fans and helped to pave the way for their future success.

Music Genre:

  American Black, Death Metal Thrash 
Packaging  This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photos of Megadeth band.

Album Production information:

Produced by Dave Mustaine and Max Norman

Dave Mustaine  ( full-name: David Scott Mustaine ) born 1961 in La Mesa, California. He is the co-founder, lead vocalist, and lead guitarist of the heavy metal band Megadeth, which was formed in 1983. Mustaine is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians in the thrash metal genre and is considered a pioneer of the American thrash metal scene.

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Mustaine was originally a member of the band Metallica , but he was eventually fired from the band due to personal and musical differences. He went on to form Megadeth , which became one of the "big four" of the thrash metal genre along with Metallica , Slayer , and Anthrax .

Throughout his career, Mustaine has been recognized for his musical abilities and innovative style, and he has been awarded numerous accolades and awards, including several Grammy nominations. He is known for his fast and complex guitar playing, as well as his powerful vocals and distinctive songwriting.

In addition to his work with Megadeth, Mustaine has been involved in various other musical projects and has collaborated with a number of other musicians. He is also a published author and has been involved in various business ventures and charitable causes throughout his career.

Max "On Yer Bike" Norman - Producer, Sound Engineer

Legendary engineer Max Norman shaped iconic metal albums. Discover his story: Ozzy, Megadeth, and beyond!

Fred Kelly Jr. - Sound Engineer

Micajah Ryan - Sound Engineer

Hugh Syme - Album artwork

Hugh Syme is a Canadian Juno Award-winning graphic artist and member of the Premier Artists Collection (PAC) who is best known for his artwork and cover concepts for rock and metal bands. He is also a musician and has appeared in some Rush songs as a keyboard player. Syme is notably responsible for all of Rush's album cover art since 1975's Caress of Steel as well as creating Rush's famous Starman logo.

Iron Maiden fans remember him best as the designer of The X Factor cover, which shows the band's mascot Eddie the Head dissected. It is remembered for its gritty realism. Whereas all previous Maiden albums were oil paintings, the X Factor Eddie was a puppet with some digital touch-ups to enhance its look. In some countries the cover was considered so gruesome that a less gory alternative was offered (the alternative cover is actually the back of the original CD booklet)

Collectors may wish to collect his complete oeuvre of album covers.

John Taylor Dismukes - Illustration

Tommy Steele - Design

Cameron Wong - Photography

Chris Cufarro - Photography

Record Label & Catalognr:

  Capitol Records 798531

Media Format:

  12" Vinyl LP  Gramophone Record
Album weight: 210 gram  
Year & Country:  1992 Made in EEC  
Band Members and Musicians on: Megadeth Countdown to Extinction
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Dave Mustaine - lead & rhythm guitar, lead vocals
  • Marty Friedman - lead, rhythm & acoustic guitar, backing vocals

    Marty Friedman is a renowned musician and music producer known for his exceptional skills as a guitarist. Born on 8 December 1962, in Washington D.C., United States, Friedman's musical journey has taken him to great heights and established him as a prominent figure in the world of heavy metal and rock music.

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    Friedman's interest in music began at a young age when he started playing guitar. Influenced by guitar legends such as Eddie Van Halen, Jimi Hendrix, and Yngwie Malmsteen, he dedicated himself to mastering the instrument. His talent quickly became evident, and he began performing with local bands in the Washington D.C. area.

    In 1988, Friedman's career took a significant turn when he joined the American thrash metal band Megadeth . His unique playing style, characterized by intricate solos, melodic sensibility, and Eastern music influences, brought a fresh and dynamic sound to the band's music. Friedman's contributions can be heard on several iconic albums, including "Rust in Peace" (1990) and "Countdown to Extinction" (1992), both of which received critical acclaim and commercial success.

    During his tenure with Megadeth, Friedman's reputation as a guitar virtuoso grew exponentially. His remarkable technical abilities and innovative approach to playing guitar earned him recognition and praise from both fans and fellow musicians alike. He became known for his seamless blending of various musical styles, incorporating elements of classical, jazz, and world music into his playing.

    In 2000, after a decade with Megadeth, Friedman decided to pursue a solo career and moved to Japan, where he had developed a strong fan base. He embraced the Japanese music scene, collaborating with local musicians and exploring new musical territories. His solo albums, such as "Introduction" (1994), "True Obsessions" (1996), and "Loudspeaker" (2006), showcased his diverse musical influences and demonstrated his versatility as an artist.

    Apart from his successful solo career, Friedman has also been involved in various other projects. He has released collaborative albums with notable Japanese musicians, including "Tokyo Jukebox" (2009) and "Inferno" (2014). These albums further exemplify his ability to bridge cultural gaps and fuse different musical traditions into a cohesive and captivating sound.

    In addition to his work as a musician, Friedman has also established himself as a respected music producer. He has produced albums for numerous artists, both in Japan and internationally, lending his expertise to enhance their sound and bring out the best in their music.

    Throughout his career, Marty Friedman has continued to push the boundaries of guitar playing and music in general. He has left an indelible mark on the heavy metal and rock genres, inspiring countless aspiring musicians with his technical prowess, innovative spirit, and adventurous musicality.

  • Nick Menza - drums, backing vocals
  • David Ellefson - bass guitars, backing vocals
  • Dave Ellefson o-founder of Megadeth. Master of the bass. Dave Ellefson's story is the inside look at thrash metal's rise. Discover his journey now.

Complete Track Listing of: Megadeth Countdown to Extinction

The Song/tracks on "Megadeth Countdown to Extinction" are

  • Skin o' My Teeth - 3:14
  • Symphony of Destruction - 4:02
  • Architecture of Aggression - 3:34
  • Foreclosure of a Dream - 4:17
  • Sweating Bullets - 5:03
  • This Was My Life - 3:42
  • Countdown to Extinction - 4:16
  • High Speed Dirt - 4:12
  • Psychotron - 4:42
  • Captive Honour - 4:14
  • Ashes in Your Mouth - 6:10
Album cover photos of : Megadeth Countdown to Extinction
Photo of Megadeth Countdown to Extinction Album's Front Cover 
High Resolution Photo Megadeth Countdown to Extinction Vinyl Record  
Photo of Megadeth Countdown to Extinction Album's Back Cover  
High Resolution Photo Megadeth Countdown to Extinction Vinyl Record  
Photos of Dave Mustaine and Marty Friedman on Megadeth Countdown to Extinction Album's Inner Cover  
Photos of Dave Mustaine and Marty Friedman on Megadeth Countdown to Extinction Album's Inner Cover    
Close-up Photo of "Megadeth Countdown to Extinction" "Capitol Records" Record Label 
Close-up Photo of "Megadeth Countdown to Extinction" "Capitol Records" Record Label   

 Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).

Index of MEGADETH Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery

MEGADETH - Anarchy in the UK Laser Etched Vinyl
MEGADETH - Anarchy in the UK  album front cover vinyl record

"Anarchy in the U.K." is originally a song by the English punk rock band "The Sex Pistols" . It was released as the band's debut single on 26 November 1976 and was featured on their only album, Never Mind the Bollocks, This is Megadeth's cover of it, originally released on the album: "So far, so good, so what?"

Anarchy in the UK 12" Laser Etched Vinyl LP
MEGADETH - Countdown to Extinction
MEGADETH - Countdown to Extinction album front cover vinyl record

Countdown to Extinction was a critical and commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States and selling over 10 million copies worldwide. The album was certified double platinum

Countdown to Extinction 12" Vinyl LP
MEGADETH - Death in the Fire
MEGADETH - Death in the Fire album front cover vinyl record

"Death in the Fire" 180g White Label Transparent Vinyl 12" Vinyl LP Album offers a thrilling glimpse into the raw intensity of Megadeth's live performances during their early years. While an unofficial release, this limited edition LP

Death in the Fire 12" Transparent Vinyl LP <
MEGADETH - Killing is my Business and Business is Good
MEGADETH - Killing is my Business and Business is Good  album front cover vinyl record

This is the Picture Disc version "Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!" the debut album by American thrash metal band Megadeth. It was originally released in 1985 on Combat Records.

Killing is my Business and Business is Good 12" Vinyl Picture Disc
MEGADETH - Killing is my Business and Business is Good (Canada & Holland)
MEGADETH - Killing is my Business and Business is Good (Canada & Holland)  album front cover vinyl record

"Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!" is the debut album by American thrash metal band Megadeth. It was originally released in 1985 on Combat Records. Mustaine wanted a picture of Megadeth mascot Vic Rattlehead

- Killing is my Business and Business is Good (1985, Canada) - Killing is my Business and Business is Good (1985, Holland)
MEGADETH - Mary Jane
MEGADETH - Mary Jane album front cover vinyl record

"Mary Jane" USA Release is an iconic musical piece that showcases the talent and creativity of the American thrash metal band, Megadeth. Released in 1988, this maxi-single offers a unique perspective on the concept of "Mary Jane"

Mary Jane 12" Vinyl Maxi Single
MEGADETH - Mary Jane b/w Hook in Mouth
MEGADETH - Mary Jane b/w Hook in Mouth  album front cover vinyl record

Megadeth's "Mary Jane" / "Hook in Mouth" picture disc is a fascinating slice of thrash metal history. While often sought for its collectible artwork, the songs themselves pack a powerful thematic punch.

Mary Jane b/w Hook in Mouth 7" Picture Disc
MEGADETH - No More Mr Nice Guy (European and USA Releases) 12" Vinyl LP
MEGADETH - No More Mr Nice Guy (European and USA Releases)  album front cover vinyl record

"No More Mr. Nice Guy" was originally a song by Alice Cooper, released in 1973. It became a popular hit and was covered by various artists over the years. In 1989, Megadeth decided to cover the song and release it as a single.

- No More Mr Nice Guy (1989, EEC Europe) - No More Mr Nice Guy (1989, USA)
MEGADETH - Peace Sells But Who's Buying (International Releases)  
MEGADETH - Peace Sells But Who's Buying (International Releases)  album front cover vinyl record

Formed in 1983 by former Metallica guitarist Dave Mustaine, Megadeth quickly gained recognition for aggressive sound, complex guitar work, and conscious lyrics. "Peace Sells... But Who's Buying?" became their second studio album

- Peace Sells But Who's Buying (1986, Canada) - Peace Sells But Who's Buying (1986, Germany) - Peace Sells But Who's Buying (1986, USA)
MEGADETH - So Far So Good So What (International Releases)
MEGADETH - So Far So Good So What (International Releases) album front cover vinyl record

Megadeth's "So Far, So Good, So What" 12" vinyl LP album was released on 19 January 1988, on Combat Records. The Canadian release of the album features a slightly different track listing than the US version

- So Far So Good So What (1988, Canada) - So Far So Good So What (1988, Germany) - So Far So Good So What (1988, USA)