Members of Soundgarden, Alice In Chains, Mastodon, and Anthrax have come together for a Chris Cornell tribute project, releasing their first cover of “Rusty Cage
A newly formed supergroup called King Ultramega—boasting an impressive lineup of rock and metal legends—has launched an ambitious project dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of the late Chris Cornell. Their first release, a powerful cover of Soundgarden’s “Rusty Cage,” 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.
The inaugural recording of “Rusty Cage” 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.
Adding even more authenticity to the tribute, Soundgarden’s 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.
Menghi, who brought the collective together, emphasized the significance of Thayil’s participation: “When Kim agreed to be part of it and re-record one of his own songs, I knew this was something special in the making,” he reflected.
Kim Thayil, in his own statement, shared heartfelt appreciation for the project. “I feel incredibly honored to be recording alongside these amazing musicians for King Ultramega. I’m proud this tribute celebrates Soundgarden and honors Chris’s songwriting. Even better, everyone’s efforts support the vital work of the MusiCares Foundation.”
The launch of King Ultramega coincides with Soundgarden’s 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: “I’ve gone through some very dark times myself. There were moments I didn’t think I’d make it, but I’m still here. Those experiences helped me relate to Chris in some way, which inspired King Ultramega’s creation.”
Menghi was clear that the intention was never to reinvent Cornell’s music, but rather to pay homage to it, always guided by the question, “How would Chris feel about this?”
“It’s truly about celebrating the legacy of Chris Cornell. Nothing more, nothing less,” Menghi stated.
“Rusty Cage” 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.
