Heavy-metal Gigantour puts guitars in spotlight

Dave Mustaine, the founder of Megadeth, and a guitarist and singer, says he organized the metal festival Gigantour because of his love for the music.

"It's a guitar gig," Mustaine said by phone from Los Angeles prior to a rehearsal. "We have been watching and keeping an eye on a lot of bands. If they love playing guitar and play good heavy music that's technically outstanding, then we ask and see if they want to be a part of the tour."

This year, headbangers will be treated to sets by Lamb of God, Opeth, Arch Enemy, Overkill, Sanctity and Smashup.

Mustaine says he's just happy that he's able to do another Gigantour. "The first tour last year caught people's attention. And we felt we needed to do another one. I know there are so many people who want to see this become a yearly outing. I'd like to see that."

Last year's fest included Anthrax, Fear Factory and Dream Theatre. In fact, the tour was so successful that there will be a live album and DVD released later this year. "One of the reasons why I put this tour together was selfish. If there was ever a time that I would have to stop playing, I would want people to know what I have accomplished. All these bands have at one point or another cited Megadeth as an influence in their musical lives. And I'm proud of that."

In fact, there was a time when Mustaine did quit playing. Back in 2003, he damaged a nerve in his hand while working on his house. "I never thought I would play again. Luckily, I am able to play again. It's like I have a second chance on life."

Mustaine has revamped the Megadeth lineup, and the band is currently working on an album. "We were trying to get this album released in time for the tour, but we didn't make it," he said with a laugh. "So we'll make due."

Megadeth currently features Mustaine, guitarist Glenn Drover, bassist James LoMenzo and drummer Shawn Drover (Glenn's brother). "The last Megadeth album ('The System Has Failed') was supposed to be a Dave Mustaine solo album, but the record company had different ideas. So it was a Megadeth album.

"Then I started working with the Dover boys, and I enjoyed working with them so much that we decided to get James into the band and make a new album."

Mustaine wouldn't comment on former bassist Dave Ellefson's lawsuit targeted at Mustaine for breach of contract. But he said the new Megadeth is working out nicely. "I'm looking forward to coming to Salt Lake City. We missed it last year. And I have a niece who lives there. So it will be great to visit."