Megadeth (from left): Shawn Drover, Dave Mustaine, Chris Broderick and David Ellefson

MANILA, Philippines—Top metal band Megadeth arrived in Manila on Friday for its concert at the World Trade Center in Pasay City on Sunday.

Known as a pioneer of thrash metal – a subgenre of heavy metal with aggressive tempos, complex guitar riffs and lightning fast solos – Megadeth was formed in Los Angeles, California in 1983 by guitarist Dave Mustaine and bassist David Ellefson, two months after Mustaine was fired from another big metal band, Metallica.

In 1985 Megadeth released its debut album, “Killing Is My Business… and Business Is Good!” which featured a sped-up version of Nancy Sinatra’s “These Boots Are Made for Walkin.’”

The band has released 13 albums to date, selling more than 30 million copies worldwide, with five albums certified platinum and multi-platinum in the United States.

Megadeth’s songs have recurring lyrical themes including politics, war, addiction, personal relationships and religion.

In 2002 Mustaine disbanded Megadeth after suffering an arm injury. Two years later he reformed it and continued recording and touring.

The band has undergone many personnel changes, with Mustaine being the only constant member. Its current lineup includes Ellefson, drummer Shawn Drover and guitarist Chris Broderick.