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Bassist JAMES MACDONOUGH Talks About Playing With MEGADETH

June 15, 2006

Travis Lowell of ToxicUniverse.com recently conducted an interview with former MEGADETH/ICED EARTH bassist James MacDonough. A couple of excerpts from the chat follow:

ToxicUniverse.com: Did you ever get to practice with Nick Menza before his departure?

MacDonough: "Yes."

ToxicUniverse.com: How did Nick treat you, and did you get the impression that he might have a hard time keeping up with the rigorous schedule of world touring? The rumor among fans is that he wasn't in touring shape.

MacDonough: "Nick's a great guy, friendly and was fun to be around. Like the press said long ago, it just wasn't clicking."

ToxicUniverse.com: Tell us about recording the DVD in Buenos Aires. Did it live up to all the hype that you had probably built up in your head based on conversations with Mustaine? From the footage I've seen, their crowds are unreal!

MacDonough: "It lived up to it and surpassed it. It was what I imagined the BEATLES felt like; fans at the airport, hotel, cameras and the video crew in your face every time you turn around. The crowd was, simply put, incredible and I'm looking forward to seeing that footage."

ToxicUniverse.com: Me too. Totally psyched. What was it like doing the acoustic gig in the park?

MacDonough: "We were rushed there in this little van. I guess it lasted for about twenty-five minutes or so…just a little taste of what was to follow the next day. It was very cool to be that close to the fans singing all the songs, right in front of us on a beautiful day. We were rushed away with droogies following us in their cars if they were fast enough. They continued honking the tempo to 'Symphony of Destruction'."

ToxicUniverse.com: I realize this is probably shaky ground, but could you give us an overview of the circumstances surrounding your departure from MEGADETH? One minute you were telling fans how much you were looking forward to playing in Dubai and recording the new album and the next you were saying goodbye.

MacDonough: "I don't really know how to explain it other than I really just didn't fit in the big picture of all things MEGA. I had a lot of fun in my tenure and am very grateful for all the opportunities and experiences. I especially love the fans. I wish all the best for Dave and the guys."

ToxicUniverse.com: Are you still on speaking terms with Dave, Shawn, and Glen? How about the rest of the crew?

MacDonough: "I talked to Dave not too long ago and Glen as well. As far as the crew goes, I talk to a few of them now and then."

Read the entire interview at www.toxicuniverse.com.

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