What makes Super Collider by Megadeth notable?

Super Collider debuted at number six on the Billboard 200, marking a solid commercial performance for the band. Despite mixed critical reception, with some reviews praising its melodic approach while others criticized its lack of aggression, the album reaffirmed Megadeth's presence in the metal scene during a time when many legacy bands were struggling. Released in 2013, Super Collider marked Megadeth's fourteenth studio album and their first under the label Tradecraft, founded by frontman Dave Mustaine. This record followed the experimental Thirteen (2011) and showcased a more accessible sound while still retaining the band's signature thrash elements, reflecting both a desire to reach broader audiences and a return to classic heavy metal roots.

How many songs are on Super Collider?

Super Collider has 1 track, running approximately 4 minutes.

Super Collider

Megadeth · 2013

4 min · 1 track · heavy metal

A mix of melodic hooks and aggressive riffs define this energetic return to form for one of metal's most enduring acts.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Super Collider — The title track exemplifies the album's blend of catchy melodies and traditional thrash elements, encapsulating Megadeth's evolving sound in the modern metal landscape.
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Kingmaker — This track features sharp political commentary and intricate guitar work, showcasing the band's lyrical depth paired with technical musicianship that defines their legacy.
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Built for War — With its driving rhythm and powerful chorus, this song serves as an anthem of defiance, highlighting Megadeth’s ability to mix themes of resilience with their signature aggressive style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album combines energetic thrash elements with polished production but lacks standout compositions.

What we noticed

The first half of the album maintains a high energy level with aggressive guitar riffs and fast tempos, while the second half introduces slower, more melodic tracks.
Lyrically, the album explores both personal introspection and broader societal themes, with tracks like 'Dance in the Rain' contrasting with more aggressive songs.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality for the band post-experimental phase.
Themes: political disillusionment· betrayal and vengeance· nuclear anxiety
Career context: Released in 2013, Super Collider marked Megadeth's fourteenth studio album and their first under the label Tradecraft, founded by frontman Dave Mustaine. This record followed the experimental Thirteen (2011) and showcased a more accessible sound while still retaining the band's signature thrash elements, reflecting both a desire to reach broader audiences and a return to classic heavy metal roots.
Stylistic neighbors: Metallica· Slayer· Anthrax