The David Ellefson Show

On this episode of The David Ellefson Show, legendary editor Brad Tolinski reflects on his iconic run at Guitar World, helping normalize tablature and spotlight rising guitar heroes. He shares stories of championing young bands before they broke and shaping the voice of guitar journalism. Brad reveals how he introduced Dimebag Darrell to his idol Ace Frehley in a moment of pure rock magic. Plus, he dives into the legacy of the MC5 and the deep research behind his powerful new book.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/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinker.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinker.ee/talktoomeypodcast #guitarworld #vanhalen #pantera #Megadeth #magazine

Michael Poulsen of Volbeat joins The David Ellefson Show to talk about their raw new album, God of Anger’s Trust, out June 6. He opens up about rediscovering his death metal roots during Volbeat’s break and how that reset fueled a back-to-basics writing style. Michael shares stories of touring tiny clubs, signing to Metal Blade, and collaborating with Mercyful Fate’s Hank Shermann. From '50s rock 'n' roll to brutal riffs, he breaks down how Volbeat’s sound came to life.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/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinker.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinker.ee/talktoomeypodcast #Volbeat #Denmark #ThrashMetal #Megadeth

In this episode, David Ellefson and Joshua Toomey sit down with legendary Megadeth guitarist Chris Poland to relive their early metal days and the making of Peace Sells. Chris shares stories about life after Megadeth, The Circle Jerks investing in rare guitars, and creating Return to Metalopolis. They also discuss a new album featuring unreleased drum tracks from the late Nick Menza, being mixed by Max Norman. Candid moments reveal the challenges of recovery, industry politics, and the lasting brotherhood forged through decades of music.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/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinker.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinker.ee/talktoomeypodcast #metal #megadeth #circlejerks #kingsofthrash

The David Ellefson Show is powered by ADV. In Ear Monitors Designed for Musicians, Born In New York!Gary Holt dives into the creative zone, sharing how early mornings fuel his lyric writing as Exodus wraps up recording not one, but two full albums packed with killer material. The band’s been riding high with special “Bonded by Blood” anniversary shows, sold-out crowds, and more touring on the horizon. Holt gets real about the physical toll of performing, past survival jobs, and how aging in thrash metal means pushing through pain for the love of the stage. He reflects on the gritty bond between bands like Exodus, Slayer, and Megadeth, built on decades of shared sweat, chaos, and rebellion.In a wide-ranging chat, Holt talks about Exodus outshining Metallica at a pivotal early show and how Kirk Hammett’s departure gave him creative freedom—though he admits he probably wouldn’t have joined Metallica himself. He opens up about stepping into Slayer, finding his own voice while honoring Jeff Hanneman’s legacy, and shares wild stories from the road, from gearhead antics to “sober” thrash days. There's raw nostalgia in the memories of early Bay Area chaos, Megadeth’s formation, and label battles with Combat and Capitol Records. Holt caps it off by touching on the realities of being a working musician—where touring, merch, and hustle still fuel the fire.Follow ADV. on Instagram: @adv.sound (https://www.instagram.com/adv.sound)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 Medialinker.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinker.ee/talktoomeypodcast #garyholt #metal #megadeth #slayer #metallica #exodus

Ellefson Coffee Co. presents The David Ellefson Show. On this episode, David Ellefson and Joshua Toomey sit down with Piggy D (Marilyn Manson, ex- Rob Zombie) for a raw, funny, and heartfelt talk about music, sobriety, and second chances. They dig into life after Megadeth and Rob Zombie, the unexpected Marilyn Manson comeback, and wild stories on the Hangar 18 video shoot. Over-the-top stage gear and Gaga-level wardrobe changes, this episode is a celebration of growth, grit, and glam. Plus: Faith No Gwar, strip club nostalgia, and proof that heavy music is weirder, louder, and more meaningful than ever.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 Medialinker.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinker.ee/talktoomeypodcast #marilynmanson #metal #megadeth #robzombie #gwar

The David Ellefson Show welcomes Kenny Hickey of Type O Negative fame. Kenny joins David Ellefson and co-host Joshua Toomey to talk about his brand new project Sun Don’t Shine, featuring Johnny Kelly Type O Negative and Kirk Windstein and Todd Strange of Crowbar. He dives into how the band came together, their rollout plans, and what fans can expect from upcoming live shows. Kenny also once again addresses the big question — will Type O Negative ever play again?The guys also take a moment to reflect on the life and legacy of Ace Frehley, sharing stories and thoughts on his massive influence on generations of musicians.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 The David Ellefson Show, hosts David Ellefson and Joshua Toomey sit down with legendary vocalist John Bush of Armored Saint and Category 7. John talks about hitting the road with Armored Saint, and shares his excitement for performing his Anthrax-era classics with Category 7. David and John look back on the early days of Megadeth and Armored Saint coming up together in the Los Angeles metal scene. The conversation also dives into the realities of touring with family, the importance of balance, and why taking time off can sometimes be the best move for longevity and creativity.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/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 Joshua Toomey sit down in person for the first time for this special episode of The David Ellefson Show. The guys talk about Kings of Thrash and Primer 55 both hitting the same venues on tour and their recent stop in Cadillac, Michigan to visit the legendary KISS monument. David shares memories from the 1995 Megadeth canned food drive and what it meant to give back to fans. They wrap up with some great stories from the Alice Cooper Fantasy Camp and what it’s like to jam with rock legends.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/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 and Joshua pay tribute to the one and only Spaceman, Ace Frehley.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/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 The David Ellefson Show, hosts David Ellefson and Joshua Toomey welcome Billy Graziadei of Biohazard. Billy joins the guys to talk about Biohazard’s return and their new album "Divided We Fall". The conversation dives into reuniting with Evan Seinfeld, signing with BLKIIBLK, and the band’s early days of being too hardcore for the metal crowd and too metal for the hardcore scene. Billy also shares stories from the road, including touring with Onyx and how Biohazard continues to bridge genres and defy labels.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/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 The David Ellefson Show, David and co-host Joshua Toomey break down Joshua’s behind-the-scenes interviews at Louder Than Life. David gives his take on the next generation of festival headliners and shares stories from his recent jam with Gus G. The guys dive into the grind of practice, keeping your chops sharp, and never stopping the hunt for new bass lines. Plus, they tease what’s ahead with Kings of Thrash and the return of Primer 55 to the road.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/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 The David Ellefson Show, David and Joshua Toomey sit down with Gregor Mackintosh of Paradise Lost. Gregor joins the show to talk about the latest Paradise Lost album "Ascension" and how the band continues to evolve after decades in the scene. He shares his thoughts on the recent Ozzy “Back to the Beginning” concert and reflects on his classic 1994 interview with Peter Steele that still circulates online. Gregor also gives insight into his writing process and the way Paradise Lost approaches recording their albums, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the band’s creative journey.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/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 The David Ellefson Show, hosts David Ellefson and Joshua Toomey welcome Chuck Billy of Testament to the podcast. Chuck discusses the band’s new single “Infanticide A.I.” from the upcoming album Para Bellum and reflects on how James Hetfield continues to inspire his vocals with the mantra, “What would James do?”. He recalls Testament’s early showcase for Jonny Z and Megaforce the day after Cliff Burton’s tragic passing, sharing the surreal atmosphere of that moment. David and Chuck swap stories of touring together with Judas Priest, including the time Dave Mustaine wouldn’t allow Testament to use their full stage production. Chuck also gives insight into Testament bassist Steve Di Giorgio’s work on a Megadeth record, cementing his reputation as one of metal’s most versatile players.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/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

This week on The David Ellefson Show, hosts David Ellefson and Joshua Toomey welcome legendary producer Randy Burns. Known for his work on groundbreaking albums from Suicidal Tendencies, Death, and Possessed, Randy takes us deep into his history behind the board. He and David dive into the making of Peace Sells... But Who’s Buying?, discussing the creative process, Dave Mustaine’s role as co-producer, and Randy’s thoughts on his original mixes of the iconic record. Randy also shares stories about his career in metal production, his return to mixing, and what he looks for in up-and-coming bands today. This episode is a must-listen for fans of thrash, metal history, and the timeless legacy of Peace Sells.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

This week, David Ellefson and Joshua Toomey sit down with Recurrence, a rising band making waves in the metal scene through a completely DIY approach. The guys dig into what it takes to build momentum without a label, the realities of touring as an unsigned act, and how Recurrence has managed to bring in big names—including members of Soilwork—for their latest release. From hustling on the road to collaborating with established artists, this conversation is a blueprint for the modern independent band.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

This week, David and Joshua sit down with former Overkill guitarist Bobby Gustafson for a deep dive into his legendary career. Bobby takes us back to his early days, joining Overkill at just 17 and landing a deal with Megaforce Records. He shares stories from the road, including touring with Megadeth on the Peace Sells tour and witnessing firsthand the explosive argument between Dave Mustaine and Gar Samuelson that led to Gar’s departure from the band. Bobby also reflects on the moment Mustaine offered him a spot in Megadeth — and why he ultimately turned it down. Plus, Bobby opens up about his time with Skrew, Vio-lence, and more in this candid and unfiltered conversation.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 #overkill #thrash #vio-lence

Join hosts David Ellefson and Joshua Toomey as they welcome OJ and Ryan of Byzantine to the show for a deep dive into their brand-new album Harbingers. The guys look back on their history, including what it was like working with Chris Adler back in 2003, and share the chaos of losing a van while touring in Canada. They also talk about their upcoming run with Cavalera and Fear Factory, and revisit the time they teamed up with Nick Menza to cover “Tornado of Souls.” To top it all off, OJ delivers a wild story about moving to Waco, TX and starting a band with some Branch Davidians. 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/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 #byzantine

David Ellefson and co-host Joshua Toomey welcome Laura Guldemond and Courtney Cox of Burning Witches to discuss their crushing new album Inquisition. The conversation dives into the making of the album’s videos, the band’s signature twin-guitar attack of Courtney and Romana Kalkuhl, and Laura’s reflections on Ozzy’s passing alongside their cover of “Shot in the Dark.” The group also compares the energy of American festivals versus the legendary European metal fests. Plus, Laura talks about her special guest appearance on the upcoming Ellefson-Soto record.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/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #burningwitches #megadeth #ozzy

In this special episode of The David Ellefson Show, David shares his reaction to the news of Megadeth’s retirement and reflects on the band’s legendary run. He answers all the questions you would have about Dave Mustaine hanging Megadeth up. He also opens up about his involvement in the upcoming Metallica tribute album, where he pays his respects to the late Cliff Burton with his own homage to “Anesthesia (Pulling Teeth).” 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/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #metallica #thrash

On this episode of The David Ellefson Show, David Ellefson and Joshua Toomey sit down with Fred Kowalo, Ellefson’s former bass tech and current tech for Nikki Sixx. Fred shares how he got his start in the tech world, from learning on the road to working with local bands, and offers advice for those aspiring to break into the industry. David recalls a wild story of an audience member throwing something on him and Fred having to clean it off the bass. Fred also talks about jamming with the Motley Crue tech crew and even opening some club shows with them along the way. Fred also recalls being on the set of Rock Star and acting with Jennifer Aniston.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/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #motleycrue #rockstar #megadeth