Thrash Trinity Takes London: Megadeth, Anthrax, and Exodus at Canada Life Place [Photos]

The streets of London, Ontario, were filled with metalheads on February 28th as thousands of concertgoers descended upon Canada Life Place in London, Ontario, for an impressive triple bill of Exodus, Anthrax, and Megadeth. The show was a part of Megadeth’s ongoing final world tour, and I have to say I’m impressed that this Canadian leg spans more than just Toronto and Vancouver, stretching from Victoria all the way to Halifax.

First up is Exodus, featuring their recently reunited frontman, Rob Dukes. His stage presence was phenomenal, and his frequent interaction with guitar legend Gary Holt was both entertaining for the fans and a goldmine for the photographers in the pit. “Bonded by Blood” and “Toxic Waltz” were definitely crowd favourites (and mine as well!), sending the mosh pit into high gear. Sadly, a short set by these Californian thrash legends with only six songs, they definitely left me wanting more.

Next on the bill was Anthrax, who exploded onto the stage, immediately cranking the energy to the max and never letting it subside. Joey Belladonna’s vocals were top-notch as he sprinted around the stage with his signature cut-off mic stance, while Scott Ian ripped on guitar as only he can. But the standout musician for me was Frank Bello, that guy was rocking out so hard on his bass that I was tired just watching him! There was a fun moment with Scot Ian teasing an absolutely face scrunching head-banging riff for a new song… and then not playing the actual track. Anthrax ending their set with the Canadian national anthem was a nice touch as well.

Personal highlight, being in the photopit shooting during “Madhouse,” which I’ve had stuck in my head a few times since the show!

Then it was time for the grand finale and one of my all-time favourite bands, Megadeth! Getting to dance around in the photo pit for “Hangar 18,” pumping my fist to the part of the song where fans chant “MEGADETH,” was a chef’s kiss moment for me. While putting my camera away, I heard the familiar intro to “Wake Up Dead,” and literally sprinted down the hall to get to my seat. The next hour and a half was just banger after banger, from “Trust” to “Symphony of Destruction,” and fans eagerly ate up every single note.

Teemu Mäntysaari was an absolute beast on lead guitar, tearing up solos like it was nothing. I thought it was cool that Dave Mustaine would step back during Teemu’s solos, letting him take the spotlight. Dirk Verbeuren was an animal on drums, constantly with his arms straight up in the air and his hair flying. Bassist James LoMenzo seemed to be having an absolute blast, a huge smile on his face most of the set.

Then, of course, the one and only Dave Mustaine. Being completely honest, his voice was a bit rough at times, but considering his battle with throat cancer, I thought it sounded pretty damn good! His vocals definitely shone during specific tracks; I thought he absolutely nailed “Sweating Bullets,” one of my absolute fave Megadeth tracks and an obvious crowd pleaser based on the crowd belting it back. Dave also took the time to thank the fans, which is always nice; who doesn’t like being thanked?

Their set ended with an encore of “Holy Wars… The Punishment Due,” and just like that, the show was over. The venue emptied to the snowstorm brewing outside, but I was all nice and warm from an amazing night of metal! Fingers crossed, I get another opportunity like this before Megadeth calls it quits.

Exodus Setlist:

1. 3111
2. Bonded by Blood
3. Blacklist
4. The Beatings Will Continue (Until Morale Improves)
5. The Toxic Waltz
6. Strike of the Beast

Anthrax Setlist:

1. A.I.R
2. Got the Time
3. Madhouse
4. Caught in a Mosh
5. Fight ‘Em ’Til You Can’t
6. Metal Thrashing Mad
7. I Am the Law
8. Antisocial
9. Indians
10. O Canada

Megadeth Set List:

1. Tipping Point
2. Hangar 18
3. Angry Again
4. She-Wolf
5. Wake Up Dead
6. In My Darkest Hour
7. Sweating Bullets
8. I Don’t Care
9. Tornado of Souls
10. Trust
11. Skin o’ My Teeth
12. Let There Be Shred
13. A Tout le Monde
14. Symphony of Destruction
15. Mechanix
16. Peace Sells
17. Holy Wars… The Punishment Due