Former Megadeth guitarist Marty Friedman is heading back to Australia in June 2027, armed with his Japanese band GODLIKE 4 and a formidable arsenal of guitar riffs. The thrash metal legend will play three headline shows in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, alongside three intimate guitar clinics offering fans a rare opportunity to get inside the mind of one of metal’s most distinctive players.
Friedman’s place in metal history is secure. He first made waves alongside Jason Becker in Cacophony, whose 1987 debut Speed Metal Symphony became a landmark of the shred guitar movement. But it was his arrival in Megadeth in 1990 that cemented his reputation, beginning with the band’s groundbreaking Rust in Peace.
Over the next decade, Friedman helped shape some of Megadeth’s most celebrated records, including Countdown to Extinction, Youthanasia and Cryptic Writings. His unmistakable lead guitar work on tracks including ‘Tornado of Souls’, ‘Hangar 18’ and ‘Holy Wars’ remains essential listening for generations of metal guitarists.
Since leaving Megadeth, Friedman has built an extraordinary second career in Japan, releasing solo albums, collaborating across genres and becoming a familiar face on Japanese television. His playing has continued to evolve, incorporating melodic influences well beyond the boundaries of thrash metal.
For the Australian shows, Friedman will be joined by GODLIKE 4, promising a set that spans his extensive solo catalogue alongside some carefully selected Megadeth material. Expect technical precision, blistering solos and plenty of surprises from a musician who has never been particularly interested in standing still.
The accompanying guitar clinics offer something different. Friedman will demonstrate his approach to phrasing, technique, composition and tone, discuss the influences behind his sound and take questions from the audience. For aspiring guitarists, it’s a chance to learn directly from the man responsible for some of metal’s most recognisable solos.
Three cities, three concerts and three clinics. For Australian metal fans, June 2027 offers a welcome opportunity to catch one of thrash’s most influential guitarists doing what he does best.
Go HERE for ticketing information.
