Fatal Opera

Gar Samuelson was an American drummer born on February 18, 1958, in Dunkirk and died on July 14, 1999, in Orange City. He joined the thrash metal band Megadeth in 1984, following the departure of Lee Raush. He was expelled from the band by Dave Mustaine at the same time as Chris Poland, due to their excessive drug use. Gar Samuelson subsequently formed the band Fatal Opera with his brother, which released two albums. He died in 1999 in Orange City, probably of liver failure. Following his death, Chris Poland stated, "He was a true friend. Everything I know about time, rhythm and feel I learned from Gar, so I'll always hear his voice in my music." As for Dave Mustaine, he said he experienced the announcement of his death as one of the worst moments of the band's career.