So Far, So Good... So What! – Megadeth (1988)
Overview
Released on January 19, 1988, So Far, So Good... So What! is the third studio album by Megadeth. It captures a transitional phase for the band, blending the السياسي intensity of Peace Sells... But Who’s Buying? with a rawer, more chaotic edge. The album reflects internal struggles, lineup changes, and substance abuse issues, yet still delivers some of Megadeth’s most iconic tracks.
This record introduced a darker, more aggressive tone while continuing the band’s evolution toward technical thrash metal.
Tracklist
- Into the Lungs of Hell
- Set the World Afire
- Anarchy in the U.K.
- Mary Jane
- 502
- In My Darkest Hour
- Liar
- Hook in Mouth
Credits (Core Lineup)
- Dave Mustaine – vocals, lead & rhythm guitar
- Jeff Young – lead guitar
- David Ellefson – bass
- Chuck Behler – drums
Production:
- Produced by Paul Lani & Dave Mustaine
- Label: Capitol Records
Fun Facts & Trivia
- “In My Darkest Hour” was written by Mustaine after the death of Cliff Burton, despite tensions with Metallica.
- “Anarchy in the U.K.” is a cover of the Sex Pistols classic, though its recording involved multiple lineup complications.
- Drummer Chuck Behler was originally Gar Samuelson’s drum tech before joining the band.
- The album’s production is often criticized for being muddy compared to its predecessor.
- “Hook in Mouth” addresses censorship and the PMRC (Parents Music Resource Center).
Did You Know? 🤘
- The intro track “Into the Lungs of Hell” is an instrumental that blends orchestral elements with thrash metal.
- Mustaine reportedly recorded parts of the album under heavy substance influence, impacting consistency.
- “502” refers to a police code for drunk driving in California.
- Early pressings of the album included slightly different mixes than later reissues.
Album Sales & Legacy
- Certified Platinum in the United States (over 1 million copies sold).
- Although not as critically acclaimed as Peace Sells... But Who’s Buying?, it remains a fan-favorite.
- Marked the end of an unstable era before Megadeth’s major breakthrough in the 1990s.
Get Megadeth albums from Amazon
Megadeth Full Discography: Complete Guide to Albums & Covers Collection (1985--2016)
More Albums:
Megadeth - Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good! (1985)
Megadeth - Peace Sells... But Who's Buying? (1986)
Megadeth - Rust in Peace (1990)
Megadeth - Countdown to Extinction (1992)
