So I have heard the new Megadeth album and I would say that initial impressions are VERY good. I need to have another listen or two to properly rate it but initial impressions would be 93-94%. I have no idea about the lyrics/concept as I was focused on the music.......and that's the key to a good concept for me anyway - the songs each stand up well independent of any concept.
I can't comment in terms of their recent releases as , although I have most of the albums, I really haven't taken much notice since CTE and , to a lesser extent, Youthanasia. I have of course sampled many of their more recent albums and I tend to think that this album is on another level. The arrival of Kiko has refreshed my interest - his tone/use of vibrato is very Friedmanesque.
A couple of times I thought I could be listening to Rust In Peace ,so if that album scratches you where you itch then I think you will really like this. Take those RIP style songs, add in the bigger production of Countdown and you'll be somewhere around the mark. Dave sounds great too (for Dave). At this point I can see it being my second favourite Megadave album behind RIP.
I can't see this album disappointing too many fans - and I actually want to listen to it again straight away, something that happens rarely with new releases these days.