MusicMusic Interviews

The David Ellefson Show

David Ellefson, Joshua Toomey

**The David Ellefson Show featuring Joshua Toomey** is a dynamic podcast where David Ellefson and Joshua Toomey dive into conversations with David’s peers in the music industry. The show also explores David’s storied career, offering insights, untold stories, and in-depth discussions about his journey in music.

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24 episodes
Avg 36 min
English

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Monday · 39 min
Wednesday 13 Talks Un-Alive, Gene Simmons, John 5, and Masters of the Universe
Wednesday 13 joins David Ellefson and cohost Joshua Toomey for a conversation covering everything from horror conventions and Gene Simmons dinner to working with John 5. Wednesday dives into his new live album, Un-Alive from Pol’and’Rock 2025, which captures a massive performance in front of more than 750,000 fans. The guys also get into Wednesday’s take on the new Masters of the Universe movie, along with some great memories involving Dolly Parton and plenty of stories from his career in horror and rock. Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdes For David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.com Follow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefson Follow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
September 14 · 29 min
David And Joshua Get Ready For Louder Than Life!
On this week's episode, David and Joshua catch up with the latest happenings in Metal Church and Primer 55. The guys look forward to both bands playing Louder Than Life and talk about the routing for each tour. They talk set lists, winding down Kings of Thrash and what 2027 looks like for Ellefson and Metal Church. Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdes For David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.com Follow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefson Follow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
September 7 · 39 min
Bear McCreary on Scoring The Walking Dead & Making Heavy Music
On this episode of The David Ellefson Show, David and cohost Joshua Toomey welcome acclaimed composer and musician Bear McCreary to discuss his new album, The Singularity: Ekleipsis. Bear talks about how Back to the Future inspired his love of film scoring, his creative process on projects like The Walking Dead, and his approach to using music to create emotion. The guys also dive into the music business, the differences between scoring and making music as an artist, and the freedom of creating something personal. The episode wraps with plenty of praise for Bear’s brother Brendan McCreary, whose vocals and musical contributions are a huge part of The Singularity.Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
August 31 · 36 min
Frozen Crown Talk The Legend of the Six Kings, Kamelot Tour & Italian Food
On this episode of The David Ellefson Show, David and cohost Joshua Toomey welcome Jade Etro and Federico Mondelli of Frozen Crown to talk about their highly anticipated new album, “The Legend of the Six Kings.” The band dives into the songwriting, inspiration and evolution behind the new record, as well as what fans can expect from their latest chapter. They also discuss hitting the road with Kamelot, playing bigger stages and bringing Frozen Crown's music to audiences around the world. The conversation takes a delicious turn as David, Jade and Federico compare the culinary traditions of Southern Italy vs. Northern Italy, from regional dishes to the ingredients that make each style unique. It's a wide-ranging conversation covering new music, touring, Italian metal and, of course, the very important subject of food!Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
August 24 · 40 min
Eric A.K. Talks Flotsam & Jetsam, Megadeth & Korn
This week on The David Ellefson Show, David and co-host Joshua Toomey welcome Flotsam and Jetsam vocalist Eric A.K. for a conversation spanning more than four decades of thrash metal history. Eric joins the show to discuss the band’s new album, Rats in the Temple, how Flotsam and Jetsam approach songwriting today, and the major impact drummer Ken Mary has had on the band’s sound and recording process.Eric also takes a trip down memory lane, remembering Flotsam and Jetsam’s history with Megadeth, including touring together during the Peace Sells...But Who’s Buying? era and the camaraderie that developed on the road. The conversation also turns to the 1995 tour with Megadeth, Fear Factory and a then-up-and-coming Korn, with Eric sharing stories about meeting Korn before they became one of the biggest bands in metal. From the early days of thrash to the evolution of Flotsam and Jetsam and the making of Rats in the Temple* this episode is packed with metal history, road stories and a look at what keeps Flotsam and Jetsam moving forward. Join the Substack for David's Megadeth stories, Metal Church updates and substack only questions for the guests at DavidEllefson.substack.com Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdes For David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.com Follow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefson Follow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
August 3 · 29 min
Kamelot's Thomas Youngblood Talks Dark Asylum, KamFest & More
David Ellefson and co-host Joshua Toomey welcome Kamelot founder and guitarist Thomas Youngblood to the show for an in-depth conversation about the band's highly anticipated new album, Dark Asylum. Thomas discusses the creative process behind the new record and collaborating with Ignacia Fernandez (Miss World Chile). He also previews The Dark Asylum Tour featuring Visions of Atlantis and Frozen Crown, along with the band's own two-day destination festival, KamFest, and what fans can expect from these upcoming live events. The conversation also takes a nostalgic turn as Thomas reflects on growing up in the Tampa Bay area during one of heavy metal's most influential eras. He shares memories of the region's rich musical history, the bands that helped shape the scene, and how those experiences continue to influence Kamelot's sound today. The guys wrap things up by talking about the evolution of live performances, creating immersive stage productions, recording albums from home studios, and balancing modern technology with the epic theatrical experience Kamelot fans have come to expect. It's a fascinating discussion covering songwriting, touring, and the future of one of symphonic metal's most enduring bands.Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
July 20 · 44 min
Ira Black on Launching APOCÆLYPSE and Being Metal's Go-To Guitarist
David Ellefson and co-host Joshua Toomey welcome guitarist and vocalist Ira Black to the show to discuss his explosive new project, APOCÆLYPSE. Known for his incredible versatility and years as one of metal’s most dependable fill-in guitarists, Ira opens up about stepping into the spotlight as the frontman of his own band and embracing the challenge of becoming a singer. The conversation dives into Ira’s impressive career, from shredding with Dokken to I Am Morbid, and how he built a reputation as the guitarist bands call when they need someone to step in and deliver. The guys also explore how APOCÆLYPSE came together, the creative vision behind the project, and the process of writing and recording new music. Ira discusses the band’s early momentum, shooting videos, and what fans can expect from this exciting new chapter in his career. Join the Substack for David's Megadeth stories, Metal Church updates and substack only questions for the guests at DavidEllefson.substack.com Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdes For David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.com Follow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefson Follow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
July 6 · 36 min
Chris Caffery on the Savatage Live Album & Touring with Megadeth at 19
David Ellefson and co-host Joshua Toomey welcome Savatage and Trans-Siberian Orchestra guitarist Chris Caffery to the show for a deep dive into the newly released live album, Madness Reigns From The Gutter. Chris shares the incredible story behind the 1990 recording, why it remained in the vault for decades, and what finally brought it to fans. He also reflects on joining Savatage at just 19 years old, hitting the road with Megadeth early in his career, spending time with Chuck Schuldiner at Morrisound Studios in Tampa, landing his first gig in Heaven at only 17, and the humorous story of becoming the first "Chris Caffery" in Savatage. It's a conversation packed with metal history, unforgettable tour stories, and a look back at one of heavy metal's most influential eras.Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
July 1 · 30 min
David Ellefson’s First Metal Church Gig + Primer 55 Rocks Rockville
On this episode of David Ellefson Show, David and cohost Joshua Toomey take a break from guest interviews and catch up on everything happening in their worlds. David talks about stepping on stage for his first gig with Metal Church, shares his thoughts on the growing use of amp modelers in modern live rigs, and reflects on how getting to tour the world is still one of the greatest privileges of being a musician. Joshua recaps the latest Primer 55 run alongside Spineshank and Hed PE, including the incredible experience of performing in front of a massive crowd at Welcome to Rockville. It’s a laid-back conversation filled with road stories, gear talk, and a reminder of why heavy music and live performance continue to connect fans all over the world. Today's episode is brought to you by Rockabilia.com, Use code: DAVID10 for 10% Off your order. 100% authentic band merch since 1987! Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdes For David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.com Follow David on Social Media linktr.ee/davidellefson Follow Joshua on Social Media linktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
June 22 · 48 min
Inside Di’Anno: Iron Maiden’s Lost Singer with Filmmaker Wes Orshoski
On this episode of The David Ellefson Show, David Ellefson and co-host Joshua Toomey sit down with acclaimed filmmaker Wes Orshoski to discuss his powerful new documentary Di'Anno: Iron Maiden's Lost Singer, chronicling the life and legacy of original Iron Maiden frontman Paul Di'Anno. Wes shares how the documentary first came together, what story he set out to tell, and the many challenges and obstacles he faced while bringing Paul’s complicated journey to the screen. The conversation dives deep into Paul’s serious health struggles over the years and the emotional reunion between Paul and Steve Harris. Wes also breaks down the involvement of James Hetfield and what it took to grab time with one of metal’s biggest icons for the film. This is an incredible behind-the-scenes look at a documentary every heavy metal fan will want to see.Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #ironmaiden #thrash #bigfour
May 25 · 28 min
Alan Robert and Terry Welty Tell Us To "Fuzz Off and Die"
On this episode of The David Ellefson Show, David Ellefson and cohost Joshua Toomey welcome Alan Robert of Life of Agony alongside Terry Welty of Welty Concepts to talk all things bass gear and heavy music history. Alan dives into the creation of his brand-new bass pedal, the “Fuzz Off and Die,” discussing the inspiration behind the tone, the design process, and why it delivers the perfect mix of grit and chaos for bass players looking to stand out.Terry Welty shares stories from his years working as Geezer Butler’s bass tech, offering behind-the-scenes insight into working with one of metal’s most iconic players. The conversation also turns to touring memories as Alan reflects on hitting the road with Ozzy Osbourne and Megadeth during some unforgettable eras of heavy music.Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
May 11 · 41 min
Jon Donais Talks New Anthrax, Living Wreckage & 30 Years of Shadows Fall
David Ellefson and Joshua Toomey welcome Jon Donais for a conversation covering new music, classic tour stories, and major career milestones. Jon talks about the latest single from Living Wreckage, shares updates on the upcoming Anthrax record, and reflects on the 30th anniversary of Shadows Fall. He also looks back on memorable moments including playing Japan with Pantera, stories from Ozzfest 2003, and seeing Megadeth at Ozzfest 1998. From thrash metal history to what’s next, Jon delivers a great mix of insight, nostalgia, and behind-the-scenes stories.Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
May 4 · 27 min
Dani Filth Goes Hollywood! Horror Film + Tour Plans Revealed
On this episode of The David Ellefson Show, David Ellefson and Joshua Toomey welcome the unmistakable Dani Filth of Cradle of Filth. Dani dives into his upcoming acting role in a new horror film and how stepping in front of the camera compares to life on stage. The conversation shifts to writing new music, the band’s relentless touring schedule, and what fans can expect when they hit the road across the U.S. and the Danny Wimmer Presents festival circuit. The guys also rewind to the wild days of Ozzfest, swapping stories from the road, including the unforgettable moment Dani crossed paths with Gene Simmons while fully decked out in makeup and costume.Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
April 27 · 28 min
Richie Faulkner Talks New Elegant Weapons Music + Life in Judas Priest
On this episode of The David Ellefson Show, David and cohost Joshua Toomey sit down with Richie Faulkner to talk about the latest music from Elegant Weapons and what’s ahead for the project. Richie dives into the writing and recording process, the musicians involved, and how the band continues to evolve. The conversation also looks at Richie’s journey with Judas Priest, reflecting on his growth as a guitarist, songwriter, and performer since joining the legendary metal icons. Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdes For David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.com Follow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefson Follow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
April 20 · 33 min
Gus G. Talks New Music, Ozzy & Signature Guitars
On this episode of the The David Ellefson Show, David Ellefson and cohost Joshua Toomey welcome guitar virtuoso Gus G.. Gus dives into his latest solo album Steel Burner. The conversation covers working with powerhouse vocalists including Doro, Dino Jelusick, and Ronnie Romero, plus how these collaborations shaped the album. David and Gus also talk about their involvement in the mobile game Rock Kommander and the growing connection between music and gaming. Gus looks back on how he landed the legendary gig with Ozzy Osbourne. The episode wraps with a gear discussion about his signature guitars with Jackson Guitars and how his tone has evolved over the years.Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
April 13 · 26 min
Jayler on Opening for Guns N’ Roses, Zeppelin Vibes & Viral Growth
On this episode of The David Ellefson Show, David Ellefson and cohost Joshua Toomey welcome rising rock band Jayler, featuring James Bartholomew and Tyler Arrowsmith. The guys dive into the band’s upcoming album Voices Unheard, their growing momentum online, and the surreal experience of preparing to play shows in Brazil alongside Guns N' Roses. James and Tyler break down how classic influences like Led Zeppelin shaped their modern 70s-inspired sound, while still finding a fresh identity.They also talk about embracing the social media algorithm, building a fanbase in today’s music landscape, and why independent artists can thrive by leaning into digital platforms instead of fighting them.Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
April 6 · 49 min
From Mudvayne to Hellyeah: Chad Gray Looks Back & Moves Forward
On this episode of the The David Ellefson Show, David and Joshua Toomey talk with Chad Gray about his upcoming solo tour celebrating songs from Mudvayne and Hellyeah. Chad reflects on the emotional journey of honoring Vinnie Paul and how revisiting Hellyeah songs now brings positive memories. He also shares how Hellyeah formed, the origin of the band’s name, and why this tour is built for the fans—including fan-voted setlists. The conversation wraps with stories from past shared shows and a look at the nu-metal resurgence with younger fans discovering the music. Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
March 30 · 36 min
Prika Amaral on Nervosa's New Album, James Hetfield Influence and Taking Over Vocals
On this episode, David Ellefson and cohost Joshua Toomey welcome Prika Amaral of Nervosa to the show. Prika dives into the band’s new album Slave Machine, sharing how the record came together while balancing touring and major life changes. She talks about moving to Greece, building a new lineup, and the modern reality of finding bandmates online from around the world.The conversation also explores why Prika stepped up to take over lead vocals and what that transition has meant for Nervosa’s sound and identity. She shares the early inspiration that made her want to play music after discovering James Hetfield, plus the challenges and excitement of writing and recording between tours. A great conversation about evolution, persistence, and the global nature of metal today.Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
March 24 · 33 min
Ellefson Talks Bass Warrior and Playing Countdown in Full
David and Joshua kick off this episode catching up on everything happening in their worlds. David recaps his recent Bass Warriors shows across Europe, sharing stories from the road and the response from fans overseas. Joshua talks about gearing up for upcoming tours with Spineshank and HED PE and what he’s looking forward to as he hits the road. David dives into performing Countdown To Extinction in full and what it’s like revisiting that era. He also shares behind-the-scenes stories on writing “Angry Again” and “Go To Hell,” including how those tracks came together for soundtracks and what made them unique compared to traditional album cuts. The conversation wraps up with David discussing the latest Ellefson-Soto video releases for “Jailhouse Rock” and “I Don’t Care About You,” plus what’s next on the horizon.Today's episode is brought to you by Rockabilia.com, Use code: DAVID10 for 10% Off your order. 100% authentic band merch since 1987!Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdesFor David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.comFollow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefsonFollow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour
March 16 · 37 min
Gary Holt (Exodus / Slayer) Talks Goliath, Officer Holt Guitar & Megadeth Farewell Tour
Thrash metal legend Gary Holt joins the David Ellefson Show with David Ellefson and cohost Joshua Toomey for a wide-ranging conversation about the next chapter for Exodus. Gary dives into the band’s upcoming album and what fans can expect from the new material as they continue flying the flag for Bay Area thrash. The guys also talk about hitting the road with Megadeth on their farewell tour, stories from touring Canada, and Gary’s signature “Officer Holt” guitar. Plus, Holt reflects on balancing life between Exodus and his time in Slayer and what the future holds for one of metal’s most respected riff masters. Today's episode is brought to you by Rockabilia.com, Use code: DAVID10 for 10% Off your order. 100% authentic band merch since 1987! Join the Patreon for early access to episodes and Q and A's with the hosts www.patreon.com/tdes For David Ellefson Stage Played Basses and Merch www.ellefsonemporium.com Follow David on Social Medialinktr.ee/davidellefson Follow Joshua on Social Medialinktr.ee/talktoomeypodcast #megadeth #bassplayer #thrash #bigfour

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