In a recent interview with Guitar World, Dave Mustaine of Megadeth discussed Metallica and their latest album, ’72 Seasons.’ He revealed that the past conflicts with his former band no longer bother him when it comes to listening to their music. Additionally, Mustaine expressed his eagerness to tour with Metallica again as part of ‘The Big Four’ lineup.
When asked if he had listened to Metallica’s latest album, the frontman responded, “No, I have not heard Metallica’s latest record. But there was a time around 20 years ago when we were not being friendly toward each other when I couldn’t listen to their music when it came on the radio. But none of that bothers me anymore, and it’s not why I haven’t heard the record, especially after the Big 4 thing that we did. I really think we should do that again.”
The Big 4 shows in 2010 marked a significant reunion for Mustaine, who had been dismissed from Metallica years prior. During that time, he and James Hetfield even discussed the possibility of collaborating on a project, though it never materialized.
Following the performances, Mustaine has expressed multiple times his desire to reunite with the other bands. In a 2021 conversation with Songfacts, he stated, “I really think it’s time for the guys in Metallica to step up, and us do one last round, see if we can get Slayer to come out of retirement and do a ‘Big 4 passing of the torch’ to the new Big 4. It would remain to be seen who they are, but I have a feeling it would include some of the players we already mentioned.”
Mustaine even envisioned a symbolic event taking place at the LA Coliseum, potentially as a single show. He explained, “Slayer is from Los Angeles, so it would probably make it more convenient for them to go home at night. I personally have been hoping for this for a while, and I keep asking and asking and asking. They’re just not into it. But that’s up to them.”
However, according to Scott Ian of Anthrax, another Big 4 show is unlikely to happen anytime soon. In an interview with Metal Edge in early 2023, he revealed, “If the Big 4 was to ever happen again – in any capacity – it’s certainly not going to be before ’25 now because they’ve [Metallica] already announced their plans. So, there you go. Anyone who has a question about the Big 4, hold that thought until 2025.”