Al Pitrelli

Al Pitrelli

“Al”

Al Pitrelli is a New York guitarist with a broad career, who joined Megadeth with the mission of filling the void left by Marty Friedman. Born in 1962, Pitrelli had worked with big names: he played with Alice Cooper, recording and touring between 1989 and 1991, was part of Dee Snider's band (Widowmaker), and in 1995 joined Savatage, a legendary progressive metal band, contributing his talent to albums like Dead Winter Dead. His versatility led him to co-found Trans-Siberian Orchestra that same year, an ambitious rock opera Christmas project that became a phenomenon in the United States. In November 2000, Pitrelli was hired by Dave Mustaine for Megadeth after Friedman's departure. He joined during the Maximum Rock tour (with Anthrax) and soon entered the studio to record The World Needs a Hero. On this album, Al contributed rawer, classic solos on tracks like 'Moto Psycho' and 'Disconnect', bringing Megadeth back to its heavy metal roots. His style differs from Friedman's: Pitrelli tends toward bluesy phrasing and hard rock feeling, which gave a different touch to the songs—for example, on ballads like 'Promises' he adds an emotional touch with clean guitars. During the 2001-2002 tour, Al Pitrelli showed professionalism and great chemistry with Mustaine on stage, recording the live album Rude Awakening together. Unfortunately, in April 2002 Mustaine suffered arm paralysis, abruptly dissolving the band. Pitrelli, who had put his other commitments on hold for Megadeth, returned to Trans-Siberian Orchestra, where he has remained as musical director and lead guitarist to this day, touring arenas every winter with their spectacular symphonic show. He also resumed work with Savatage for special shows and continued as a sought-after session musician. Al Pitrelli often speaks positively about his time in Megadeth: he highlights Mustaine's dedication and considers his time there a valuable experience in a legendary band. Fans remember him in videos like 'Moto Psycho' with his blonde hair and gold guitar. Although his time in Megadeth was short, Pitrelli left his mark in a moment of transition, providing instrumental solidity. Interestingly, he is the only Megadeth lead guitarist who was not replaced by another—since after the 2002 breakup there was no band until Mustaine's return in 2004. Today, with decades of touring behind him, Al Pitrelli remains active and is especially revered for his role in Trans-Siberian Orchestra, without forgetting that dose of 'Hero' he gave Megadeth at the close of its first era.