KING ULTRAMEGA have unveiled a moving reinterpretation of “Dead Wishes”, featuring Brann Dailor on lead vocals. The release serves as both a tribute to Chris Cornell and a charitable effort supporting MusiCares, which provides mental health services, addiction recovery resources, and emergency assistance to music industry professionals.
Originally appearing on Cornell’s 2015 album Higher Truth, “Dead Wishes” is reimagined here with a richly layered arrangement that expands on the original’s stark emotional core. Dailor steps away from the drum kit to deliver a vulnerable vocal performance, backed by intricate instrumentation from a lineup of acclaimed collaborators.
The track features guitars by Angel Vivaldi, orchestration and bass by Mark Menghi, keyboards by Frank Mitaritonna, and drums/percussion by Kenny Aronoff. The orchestral arrangements—spanning strings, percussion, and textured embellishments—were conducted and composed by Menghi, who also produced the track. Artwork was created by Costin Chioreanu.
Menghi describes the approach as one rooted in respect for the original while allowing space for expansion: an atmospheric reinterpretation that adds orchestral depth without losing the song’s intimacy. For Dailor, taking on the vocal role was both daunting and deeply meaningful, calling it an honor to pay tribute to one of his favorite artists while contributing to a cause that supports the music community.
KING ULTRAMEGA is a collaborative project led by Mark Menghi, dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of Chris Cornell. The project arrives alongside Soundgarden’s long-awaited induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and brings together an extensive roster of influential musicians.
What began in 2020 as an informal recording of “Rusty Cage” evolved into a larger creative endeavor, fueled by admiration for Cornell’s artistry and a desire to celebrate his catalog with integrity. The project gained momentum when Kim Thayil joined and re-recorded one of his own compositions, signaling a deeper collaborative vision.
Rather than reinvent Cornell’s work, KING ULTRAMEGA aims to honor it—allowing each contributor’s voice to shine while remaining faithful to the spirit of the original material. The project’s lineup includes artists such as Joe Satriani, Charlie Benante, William DuVall, Bill Kelliher, and Alissa White-Gluz, among others.
At its core, the project is driven by reverence and purpose. Beyond celebrating Cornell’s legacy, it also serves as a vehicle for awareness and support through MusiCares—reinforcing the importance of mental health and community within the music industry.
“Dead Wishes” Lineup
- Vocals — Brann Dailor
- Acoustic & Electric Guitar — Angel Vivaldi
- Bass — Mark Menghi
- Keyboards — Frank Mitaritonna
- Drums & Percussion — Kenny Aronoff