Hangar 18

Hangar 18 is the Premier Tribute to platinum and multiplatinum-selling artists Megadeth. As the self-styled "State of the Art Speed Metal Band", Megadeth has sold over 20 million records world-wide and has 7 Grammy nominations for the Best Metal Performance, in addition to a legion of loyal fans, old and young alike.
As a tribute to Megadeth, Hangar 18 recreates the live Megadeth experience with technique and precision, while producing a lively stage show that demands audience participation. Unlike Megadeth, however, Hangar 18 can provide a more personal experience and has the flexibility perform songs that are no longer part of Megadeth's current setlist. Hangar 18 is honored to be endorsed by members of Megadeth.
The band was formed in late 2001 and has risen to a prominent place in the Metal tribute scene. In addition to a high profile jam with original members of Megadeth, Hangar 18 has performed large scale shows, including a prominent slot in KOMP FM's Kegger Festival in Las Vegas, NV and headlining the Borderland Metalfest in El Paso, TX.
The band was formed by William (Fro Mustaine) Rustrum, formerly of L.A. thrash Metal act Raven Mad, and Michael (Mikey Friedman) Johnson. Both had a vision of creating a top tribute act which would give an energetic stage performance and clearly display their ability as musicians. The clear choice was Megadeth.
Following a few early line-up changes, Hangar 18 added Graphic Violence/Dreams of Damnation/Hirax drummer Dave (Dave Scott Chedrick Samuelson) Chedrick to the fold. In early 2003, ex-The Iron Maidens/New Eden/Sinergy bassist Melanie (Mellefson) Sisneros, who had played with Rustrum and Chedrick in other bands in the past, undertook bass duties.
Hangar 18 was later joined by ex-Knight Stryke guitarist Marty "Vic" Doty, who originally served as a back-up for Mikey Friedman. Marty became a full-fledged member of the band, and for a while, H18 continued as a five piece, alternating performances until Mikey Friedman departed in 2004.
Hangar 18, the only active Megadeth tribute in the United States, covers material from Megadeth's early days until the band's peak during the Countdown To Extinction/Youthanasia era. The current set encompasses hits of Megadeth as well as fan favorites.
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