Supergroup King Ultramega Honors Chris Cornell With Single “Rusty Cage”

The recent debut of King Ultramega, a supergroup formed to honor the late Chris Cornell, has sparked significant interest in the rock and metal music scenes. This unique assembly, including members from renowned bands such as Alice In Chains, Anthrax, Mastodon, Metal Allegiance, and even Pantera's tribute act, has come together to release a powerful rendition of Soundgarden's iconic track, “Rusty Cage.” The release isn't just an artistic endeavor but is also a fitting tribute to Cornell's enduring legacy, woven into a broader, meaningful effort to support MusiCares. This organization is dedicated to providing mental health and addiction recovery services to the music industry, managing to combine the tribute with a cause that extends beyond pure music appreciation.

Notable contributors to the inaugural track include Alice In Chains' frontman William DuVall, Mastodon's guitarist Bill Kelliher, Anthrax and Pantera's drummer Charlie Benante, and Metal Allegiance's bassist Mark Menghi, who also masterminded the project. The idea for King Ultramega was seeded during the COVID-19 pandemic when Menghi recorded “Rusty Cage” with friends, confronting the daunting task of entering ‘uncharted waters.' The involvement of Soundgarden guitarist Kim Thayil, who re-recorded one of his own tracks, catalyzed the project's evolution. Future releases from King Ultramega are expected to draw from Cornell's vast discography, including songs from Soundgarden, Audioslave, and Cornell’s solo repertoire. Each release aims to raise awareness and funds for MusiCares, featuring diverse musicians such as Joe Satriani, Alissa White-Gluz, and Kenny Aronoff, creating a melting pot of musical influences.

William DuVall approached covering Cornell’s parts with utmost respect, choosing to maintain the integrity of the original Soundgarden track. His sentiment was echoed by other contributors who saw this project not just as a musical endeavor but as a cultural one, invoking and sustaining Cornell's essence as an artist. Duvall stated that his involvement was rooted in admiration for Cornell and an intriguing challenge that helped sustain creativity during the pandemic lockdown. This release became a testament to uniting artists across genres to support MusiCares' crucial work.

The foundation of King Ultramega rests on both a shared reverence for Chris Cornell and a mission to leverage that admiration for charitable causes. Mark Menghi reflected on how personal challenges and understanding influenced his commitment to this venture. It was not just about recreating Cornell's work but about honoring his legacy with sincerity and purpose. The dynamism within the recordings comes from the high-caliber musicians involved, all leaving their distinct mark while respecting the material. This collective vision replicates Cornell's poignant impact on both music and cultural landscapes.

Upcoming performances and potential tracks have already fueled discussions about the nature of covering such revered work. The newly released “Rusty Cage” symbolizes a starting chapter in this evolving project. According to Kim Thayil, the initiative pays homage not just to a fellow musician but also to a deep friendship, while simultaneously offering opportunities for new musical dialogues. This endeavor reflects a balance of honoring the past while pushing the boundaries of musical tribute, a dance between nostalgia and fresh creativity.

As the organization proceeds, the continuous involvement of prestigious performers suggests King Ultramega is not just a one-off. It stands as a pioneering model for how art, remembrance, and philanthropy can coalesce. More than a band, King Ultramega embodies a commitment to supporting artists' health needs, illustrating how music can heal both emotionally and physically. Through King Ultramega, Chris Cornell's legacy remains alive, influencing new and seasoned listeners alike, proving that music's power transcend isolation, nurturing communal spirit. This project, as DuVall aptly articulates, remains a unique and ambitious homage to one of rock's most beloved voices.