Megadeth to reunite with Marty Friedman for first time in 23 years

American metal titans Megadeth will reunite with guitarist Marty Friedman for the first time in 23 years during the band’s global livestream event titled, “They Only Come Out At Night,” taking place at the Budokan Arena in Tokyo on February 27th.

The band shared the news with fans via social media. Frontman Dave Mustaine mentioned that he and Friedman have remained friends for years despite not being seen together on stage.

“For the first time in more than 23 years, Megadeth alumni @MartyFriedman will join Megadeth on stage as the special guest for our one-off global livestream from the legendary Budokan Arena in Tokyo, Japan on February 27! Marty and I have remained friends over 23 years, since we last played together. However, I hear his music every night, and he still is among the top guitar players I’ve ever heard. This is an amazing treat for the fans, as well as myself. To be honest, I may drift off while listening to Kiko and Marty play together!”, Megadeth announced on Instagram.

Friedman joined Megadeth in 1990 and remained in the band until 2000, playing on acclaimed albums such as 1990’s “Rust in Peace”, 1992’s “Countdown to Extinction”, and 1994’s “Youthanasia”, and departing the group due to creative differences after 1999’s “Risk”. Then he moved to Japan and became a pop culture celebrity, hosting TV shows, acting in movies and commercials, and enjoying a successful solo music career.

The livestream will be rebroadcast three times on the 27th and then will be made available for on-demand viewing for two days starting on Feb. 28. Tickets are currently available and cost $15 in advance and $17 on the day of the show.