Anthrax is back with a new facemelting album

We reviewed For All Kings, which is due out February 26

Anthrax is back with a new facemelting album! Not since 2011’s Worship Metal have we heard a full album from thrash metal titans, Anthrax. Since that album the band went through their band member musical chairs this time the exiting band member was lead guitarist Rob Caggiano who left Anthrax to join Danish metal band Volbeat. Guitarist Jon Donais, who took the reigns and contributes on the latest album release, For All Kings, then replaced Caggiano.

Scott Ian, dubbed For All Kings as “The most metal record we have made in a long, long time”, and I must say that I agree. This album is also probably the closest we will ever get to the original Anthrax from 33 years ago with Joey Belladonna appearing on the second album since Persistence of Time.

You will also like: We interview Chuck Billy and review his heavy metal vape

Out of all of the tracks, “You Gotta Believe”, definitely gives off the most vintage metal feel, bringing in some 80s metal riffs, which Donais is clearly influenced by. Donais is a great addition to the band giving them a newer, more polished sound that highlights their maturity and growth throughout the decades.

This album is pretty much dark throughout after “You Gotta Believe”, the title track “For All Kings”, is probably the most aggressive and ominous on the whole album. It also has a face disintegrating guitar solo on there that definitely solidifies Donais as a great choice for the band.

Probably the most political track on this album is “Evil Twin”, which was inspired by the Paris terrorist attacks. This probably the most metal song on their album and my favorite track. Belladonna shows he still has it with his powerful vocals sailing over those infectious guitar riffs.

“Blood Eagle Wings” is also one of my favorites on the album, because it gives off a grunge vibe, similar to Alice in Chains or Soundgarden, but also keeps the thrashy, speedmetal vibe that they are known for. All around For All Kings is an awesome album that not only is awesome to listen to, but will translate really well while touring as a live show.

For All Kings is due out February 26 via Megaforce and you can catch Anthrax on tour with Lamb of God in the dates below.

JANUARY

22 Constant Convocation Center, Norfolk, VA

23 Hammerstein Ballroom, New York, NY

24 Oakdale Theatre, Wallingford, CT

28 Royal Oak Music Theatre, Royal Oak, MI

29 Egyptian Room at Old National Center, Indianapolis, IN

30 Aragon Ballroom, Chicago, IL

31 Orbit Room, Grand Rapids, MI

FEBRUARY

2 Arvest Bank Theatre at The Midland, Kansas City, MO

4 Revention Music Center, Houston, TX