During a recent episode of the “100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal” podcast, hosted by Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel, ANTHRAX drummer Charlie Benante discussed the progress of the band’s much-anticipated album following 2016’s “For All Kings.” The mixing and some recording sessions took place at Dave Grohl’s Studio 606 in Northridge, California, with producer Jay Ruston, who previously worked on “For All Kings” and 2011’s “Worship Music.”
Benante stated, “We have a new ANTHRAX record coming out early next year. There’s one song left to mix, and I believe this record is exceptional. I know it took a long time, but I think people will find it worth the wait.”
Discussing their collaboration with Ruston, Benante added, “Jay’s done the last few ANTHRAX records and has become our George Martin. We’ve worked closely on this record.”
Benante continued, “As the album took shape, I listened to the songs in the order we plan to release them, and it flows beautifully. We pushed the envelope on this record, and I’m excited about it.”
In an interview with Thomann’s Guitars & Basses, ANTHRAX bassist Frank Bello expressed his enthusiasm: “It’s been almost 10 years since our last record, which is crazy. We’re in the mixing phase, and I’m very excited about how the songs are coming together.”
Bello elaborated on the excitement for the new album more than 40 years into their career: “We never stop being fans. It has to be good enough for us, and if it is, others will like it too.”
Bello also discussed their songwriting process: “We exchange demos digitally since Charlie’s in Chicago, Scott’s in L.A., and I’m in New York. Once we have a strong collection, we refine them together.”
Benante mentioned on the “Talk Is Jericho” podcast that they plan to release a song by the end of the year. “I just finished the album cover, and it’s quite trippy,” he said, collaborating with artist Mark Stutzman.
Bello shared on SiriusXM’s “Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk” that the album is now in mixing. “It’s been a long time coming, but we’re focused on ANTHRAX now, and you’ll hear something before the year’s end.”
When asked if fans will get a new song before the end of 2025, Bello confirmed: “That’s the plan. We’ll release singles to tease the album.”
Regarding the album’s direction, Bello said, “People who liked our last two records will appreciate this one. Joey Belladonna’s vocals are some of his best on an ANTHRAX record.”
Asked if 2026 is slated for touring, Bello confirmed: “We’re concentrating on ANTHRAX and the new record, with some shows for other projects when we’re off.”
In July, Belladonna told Chicago’s Rebel Radio 92.5 FM that he completed the vocals for the upcoming album, expressing satisfaction with the band’s sound.
In September 2024, Ian told Guitar World they aim to release the new album in 2025, emphasizing the importance of taking their time to ensure quality.
Ian described the new material as featuring “crushing riffs and great choruses,” aiming for a hard-hitting album.
In August 2024, Benante told Metal Hammer about a song with an epic feel, and others that explore new territory for the band.
In January 2024, Bello discussed the delay in releasing new music, citing the pandemic and emphasizing their commitment to quality.
He mentioned the album’s complexity and heaviness, highlighting the band’s desire to challenge themselves and their fans.
In October 2023, Ian explained on “THAT Rocks!” that they began working on the album more seriously in the past year, with writing sessions resuming post-lockdown.
In September 2023, Belladonna discussed his lyrical contributions, emphasizing the importance of his vocal style and approach.
During an August 2023 appearance on SiriusXM’s “Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk,” Ian described the new material as riff-centric and fast-paced.
Earlier in 2023, Benante explained to Robert Cavuoto of Metal Rules that the pandemic delayed the album, but new songs have since been added to the mix.
ANTHRAX celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2021, marking its legacy as one of the pioneers of thrash metal alongside METALLICA, SLAYER, and MEGADETH.
Over five decades, ANTHRAX has released 11 studio albums, received multiple gold and platinum certifications, and earned six Grammy nominations, performing worldwide since 1984.
“For All Kings” was praised as one of ANTHRAX’s strongest albums, following a period of resurgence with “Worship Music” and the “Big Four” tour.
