Is So Far, So Good… So What! a good place to start with Megadeth?

Yes, So Far, So Good… So What! is recommended as a starting point for new Megadeth listeners. Razor-sharp riffs and relentless rhythms collide with dark thematic explorations, encapsulating the essence of late '80s thrash metal. Released on January 19, 1988, So Far, So Good… So What! was Megadeth's third studio album, following their breakthrough record Peace Sells... but Who's Buying? The band was solidifying their place in the heavy metal genre amid lineup changes and a growing fanbase. This album marked a pivotal moment as they embraced a more polished production style while maintaining their ferocious sound.

Who is So Far, So Good… So What! for?

So Far, So Good… So What! works well if you're into short, intense listening bursts, dynamic emotional journeys and energetic workout motivation.

How many songs are on So Far, So Good… So What!?

So Far, So Good… So What! has 8 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

So Far, So Good… So What!

Megadeth · 1988

34 min · 8 tracks · heavy metal

Razor-sharp riffs and relentless rhythms collide with dark thematic explorations, encapsulating the essence of late '80s thrash metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Into The Lungs Of Hell Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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In My Darkest Hour — This track stands out with its haunting lyrics and complex arrangements, capturing feelings of despair and isolation that resonate deeply within the album's themes.
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Set The World Afire — As an opener, this song sets a powerful tone for the album, blending political commentary with intricate guitar work that exemplifies Megadeth's thrash identity.
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Anarchy In The U.K. — This cover not only pays homage to punk legends but also showcases Megadeth’s aggressive interpretation, bridging genres and expanding their audience.
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Hook In Mouth — This closing track critiques censorship in music while delivering relentless musical aggression, representing the band's defiance and commitment to artistic freedom.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

62 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album features intricate riffs and politically charged lyrics, marking it as a significant entry in thrash metal.

What we noticed

Several tracks feature abrupt tempo changes, particularly in 'Set The World Afire', which shifts from a driving rhythm to slower, more melodic sections.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short, intense listening bursts
dynamic emotional journeys
energetic workout motivation
politically charged themes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified Megadeth's reputation in thrash metal after previous success.
Themes: personal loss· anti-war sentiment· censorship frustration
Career context: Released on January 19, 1988, So Far, So Good… So What! was Megadeth's third studio album, following their breakthrough record Peace Sells... but Who's Buying? The band was solidifying their place in the heavy metal genre amid lineup changes and a growing fanbase. This album marked a pivotal moment as they embraced a more polished production style while maintaining their ferocious sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Metallica· Slayer· Anthrax