The fact that Anthrax are one of, if not the, finest metal band(s) in existence is already an established fact (at least in my mind), and yes, they have previously survived major line-up changes including new singers, but with the reunion of the "classic" line-up now over, there was a little apprehension in the air as the band took the stage with new front man Dan Nelson (who sadly has subsequently left the group) as to whether; a) The new boy could pass muster and b) Where the band were at musically having abandoned the greatest hits tour and returned to writing new material. This apprehension lasted all of about two seconds as the giant, engaging Nelson strode onto the stage and sang the first line of "Indians" in a voice, which almost unbelievably sounded bigger than he is!
The band were on rude from and grooved and thrashed like a well-oiled high-preformance machine and seemed reinvigorated by their injection of new blood, with songs from all of the bands various eras from their early Thrash days to the forthcoming "Worship Music" album all played with the same infectious enthusiasm and passion.
Highlights included the ever-majestic "Only" and the ubiquitous "Caught In A Mosh", but truth be told there was no lull in this set even when newer material previously unheard by the vast majority of the crowd were played.
A brilliant gig, and another reminder to me (for I sometimes seem to forget) that live Anthrax are pretty much peerless. Please come again soon guys, we need you.
University of London Union @
- London @
- Tue 16 Jun 2009 @
Favourite moment: "Only" was once described by James Hetfield of Metallica as a "perfect song", on the evidence of tonight,he might just be right. @