Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good! cover

Released 41 years ago this June

Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!

Megadeth · 1985

31 min · 8 tracks · heavy metal · thrash metal · speed metal

Frenetic guitar riffs and aggressive drumming drive a raw, unfiltered expression of thrash metal energy.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • quick, energetic listening bursts
  • intense workout motivation
  • immediate hooks and energy
  • short, punchy song structures

Where this album fits

Themes
cynical capitalism· thrash metal aggression· censorship debates
Career context
Released on June 1, 1985, 'Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!' was Megadeth's debut album following frontman Dave Mustaine's departure from Metallica. At this point in their career, the band was establishing its identity in the burgeoning thrash metal scene, showcasing Mustaine's songwriting prowess after years of industry experience.
Stylistic neighbors
Metallica· Slayer· Anthrax
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Reign in Blood by Slayer — Shares the same relentless energy and aggressive guitar work with themes of darkness and chaos.
Among the Living by Anthrax — Features frenetic riffs and socio-political themes, capturing the thrash spirit of the era.
Ride the Lightning by Metallica — Similar raw production and lyrical exploration of societal issues, marking an evolution in thrash metal.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Last Rites / Loved to Deth 4:35
  • 2 Killing Is My Business… and Business Is Good! 3:02
  • 3 Skull Beneath the Skin 3:44
  • 4 These Boots 3:43
  • 5 Rattlehead 3:41
  • 6 Chosen Ones 2:53
  • 7 Looking Down the Cross 4:58
  • 8 Mechanix 4:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata