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A newly formed supergroup called King Ultramega\u2014boasting an impressive lineup of rock and metal legends\u2014has launched an ambitious project dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of the late Chris Cornell. Their first release, a powerful cover of Soundgarden\u2019s \u201cRusty Cage,\u201d dropped today, with all proceeds going to the MusiCares Foundation to support musicians facing challenges with mental health and addiction. You can check out the track below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The inaugural recording of \u201cRusty Cage\u201d features William DuVall from Alice In Chains on vocals, Bill Kelliher of Mastodon on guitar, Charlie Benante from Anthrax and Pantera on drums, and project founder Mark Menghi of Metal Allegiance handling bass duties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Adding even more authenticity to the tribute, Soundgarden\u2019s legendary guitarist Kim Thayil has officially joined the project, with plans to appear on future tracks. His involvement brings a deep sense of approval and genuine connection to the original band.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Menghi, who brought the collective together, emphasized the significance of Thayil\u2019s participation: \u201cWhen Kim agreed to be part of it and re-record one of his own songs, I knew this was something special in the making,\u201d he reflected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kim Thayil, in his own statement, shared heartfelt appreciation for the project. \u201cI feel incredibly honored to be recording alongside these amazing musicians for King Ultramega. I\u2019m proud this tribute celebrates Soundgarden and honors Chris\u2019s songwriting. Even better, everyone\u2019s efforts support the vital work of the MusiCares Foundation.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The launch of King Ultramega coincides with Soundgarden\u2019s long-awaited induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, making the tribute especially meaningful for all involved. For Menghi, the project is personal: \u201cI\u2019ve gone through some very dark times myself. There were moments I didn\u2019t think I\u2019d make it, but I\u2019m still here. Those experiences helped me relate to Chris in some way, which inspired King Ultramega\u2019s creation.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Menghi was clear that the intention was never to reinvent Cornell\u2019s music, but rather to pay homage to it, always guided by the question, \u201cHow would Chris feel about this?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt\u2019s truly about celebrating the legacy of Chris Cornell. Nothing more, nothing less,\u201d Menghi stated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cRusty Cage\u201d is just the beginning for King Ultramega, which plans to release more tracks featuring an ever-evolving lineup of renowned artists. Future songs will spotlight talents like Joe Satriani and Alissa White-Gluz, among many others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n