During Metal Allegiance's recent visit to our studio, we managed to get some one-on-one time with bassist David Ellefson to talk about Megadeth's upcoming album Dystopia and the departure of guitarist Chris Broderick.

We found ourselves in an interesting situation last year attending David Ellefson's 50th birthday party. Metal Allegiance, with Chris Broderick in tow, played a small show to celebrate the legendary Megadeth bassist's birthday. Just days later, both Chris Broderick and drummer Shawn Drover announced they were leaving Megadeth. There were no signs of tension between Broderick and Ellefson during the birthday bash, so we asked Ellefson if he was surprised by Broderick's sudden decision.

"It was kind of shocking when he and Shawn left because it happened at the same time," Ellefson says. Check out the bassist's full answer in the clip above.

Ellefson also spoke about Lamb of God drummer Chris Adler and Angra guitarist Kiko Loureiro, who stepped in to fill the newly vacant positions for Megadeth's 15th studio album, Dystopia. Ellefson praises both musicians and speaks about what kind of creative energy they brought into the fold.

Check out our exclusive chat with David Ellefson above!

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