MEGADETH is in the early stages of the songwriting process for the band’s new album, which is tentatively expected sometime next year via Roadrunner Records. The CD is once again being helmed by acclaimed British producer Andy “Undie” Sneap, who produced MEGADETH’s last album, “United Abominations” (May 2007, Roadrunner Records).

MEGADETH’s forthcoming LP will be the group’s first with guitarist Chris Broderick, who replaced Glen Drover at the end of last year.

Commented drummer Shawn Drover (Glen’s brother): “So I am once again leaving for San Diego and to Vic’s Garage [MEGADETH's studio], which is about 95% done now and looking totally killer, I must say. So many people have lent their talents to making this such a nice and comfortable studio; all of us in the band are very appreciative of their efforts.

“Now that we have jumped into all the riff tapes and put them into ProTools format, it will make it much easier for the band and Andy Sneap to sift through, demo and eventually record for the next MEGADETH record — a process that I really enjoy.

“To answer the main question we are hearing as to ‘WHEN’ the record will be released, the answer is ‘When it is ready.’ You cannot rush things like this and we have no intention of doing so.

“Be patient, people; good things come to those who wait.

“I am also looking forward to getting the best drum sound possible with Andy. I have an arsenal of snare drums to try out, etc. Maybe certain snares will sound better in a particular song, but it’s all part of the fun for me.”

MEGADETH will embark on the “Priest Feast” European tour in February 2009 with headliners JUDAS PRIEST and openers TESTAMENT.

MEGADETH’s “Anthology: Set The World Afire” (Capitol/EMI) career-spanning 2-CD and digital collection sold around 2,600 copies in the United States in its first week of release, according to Nielsen SoundScan.