KING ULTRAMEGA, the tribute project dedicated to honoring the legacy of the late Chris Cornell, have released a new interpretation of SOUNDGARDEN’s classic track “Loud Love.” The recording features an all-star lineup led by Lzzy Hale on vocals, Alex Skolnick on guitar, bassist and producer Mark Menghi, and Dave Krusen on drums.
The release also serves a charitable purpose, raising funds and awareness for MusiCares, which provides mental health services, addiction recovery resources, and emergency assistance to members of the music community.
Originally appearing on SOUNDGARDEN‘s 1989 album Louder Than Love, “Loud Love” remains one of the band’s most celebrated songs. To capture the spirit of the original recording, Menghi adopted an old-school production approach, recording live performances to reel-to-reel tape in an effort to recreate the warmth and energy of the era.
Hale embraced the challenge of tackling one of Cornell’s most iconic vocal performances, explaining that her goal was not imitation but rather connecting with the song’s spirit while honoring the original. She also emphasized the song’s enduring message, stating, “If there was ever a time to be spreading a message of loud love, it’s now.”
Skolnick approached the guitar work with respect for Kim Thayil’s distinctive style, balancing faithfulness to the original arrangement with his own musical personality. Meanwhile, Krusen reflected on his admiration for SOUNDGARDEN and shared memories of Cornell, describing him as a genuinely kind and humble individual.
The release is the latest chapter in KING ULTRAMEGA, a project conceived by Menghi to celebrate Cornell’s songwriting and artistic legacy. What began during the pandemic as a recording of “Rusty Cage” gradually evolved into a larger undertaking featuring contributions from an impressive roster of musicians, including Thayil, Charlie Benante, Joe Satriani, William DuVall, Bill Kelliher, and Alissa White-Gluz.
The project arrives alongside renewed recognition for SOUNDGARDEN, coinciding with the band’s recent induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. According to Menghi, the mission of KING ULTRAMEGA remains simple: to honor Cornell’s music with respect and authenticity while introducing his work to new generations of listeners.
“Loud Love” Lineup
- Lzzy Hale (HALESTORM) — Vocals
- Alex Skolnick (TESTAMENT / METAL ALLEGIANCE) — Guitar
- Mark Menghi — Bass, Producer
- Dave Krusen (PEARL JAM) — Drums