Collection: ANTHRAX

Browse our Anthrax vinyl records collection, featuring limited edition LPs, coloured vinyl pressings, live recordings and collector editions. Discover albums from one of thrash metal’s legendary “Big Four” bands, with rare vinyl releases spanning more than four decades of heavy metal history.

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ANTHRAX History

ANTHRAX History
Anthrax were formed in New York City in 1981 by guitarist Scott Ian and bassist Dan Lilker during the emergence of the American thrash metal movement. Combining the speed and aggression of heavy metal with the energy of punk rock, Anthrax helped redefine heavy music alongside Metallica, Megadeth and Slayer, earning their place as one of the legendary “Big Four” of Thrash Metal.

Unlike many metal bands of the era, Anthrax developed a distinctive personality that mixed technical musicianship with humour, comic book culture and socially aware lyrics. Their energetic live performances and approachable image helped them stand apart from many of their darker contemporaries while never compromising the heaviness of their music.

After several early line-up changes, vocalist Joey Belladonna joined the band in 1984, completing what many fans consider the classic Anthrax line-up alongside Scott Ian, Charlie Benante, Frank Bello and guitarist Dan Spitz. This era produced the albums that established Anthrax as one of the biggest names in heavy metal.

Their breakthrough came with Spreading the Disease in 1985, but it was Among the Living, released in 1987, that transformed Anthrax into international metal stars. Widely regarded as one of the greatest thrash metal albums ever recorded, it featured classics including Caught in a Mosh, Indians, I Am the Law and Among the Living. The album remains the answer to one of the band’s most searched questions: “What is Anthrax’s best album?”

Anthrax continued their success with State of Euphoria and Persistence of Time, demonstrating increasing maturity in both songwriting and musicianship while maintaining the speed and intensity that made them famous.

One of the most important moments in the band’s career came in 1991 when they collaborated with hip-hop pioneers Public Enemy on a new version of Bring the Noise. The partnership broke down barriers between heavy metal and rap music, introducing Anthrax to an entirely new audience and becoming one of the most influential crossover recordings in modern music. Today, many fans still search “Did Anthrax record with Public Enemy?”, and the collaboration remains one of the defining moments in both bands’ careers.

Another frequently searched topic is “Why did Joey Belladonna leave Anthrax?” In 1992, Belladonna departed the band due to creative differences and was replaced by John Bush, formerly of Armored Saint. Bush fronted Anthrax throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, recording several highly respected albums including Sound of White Noise, which introduced a heavier and more groove-oriented direction.

Following years of changing line-ups and reunion tours, Joey Belladonna officially returned to Anthrax in 2010, much to the delight of long-time fans. His return marked the beginning of a new era, culminating in the release of Worship Music, an album widely praised as one of the strongest records of the band’s career.

Unlike many of their contemporaries, Anthrax have avoided the personal tragedies that have affected numerous rock and metal bands. Instead, their story is one of longevity, resilience and continual reinvention. Scott Ian remains the band’s driving force, while drummer Charlie Benante has earned recognition as one of thrash metal’s most influential musicians and songwriters.

Fans also frequently ask “Is Anthrax still together?” The answer is yes. More than forty years after forming, Anthrax continue to tour internationally and remain one of heavy metal’s most respected live acts. Alongside Metallica, Slayer and Megadeth, they continue to represent the very best of American thrash metal.

Anthrax’s influence can be heard throughout modern metal, with countless bands citing them as an inspiration. Their willingness to experiment, embrace different musical styles and maintain their sense of humour helped them build a legacy that extends far beyond thrash metal.

Today, Anthrax vinyl records remain highly collectible. Original pressings of Among the Living, Spreading the Disease, Persistence of Time and Sound of White Noise, alongside limited edition coloured vinyl releases, anniversary editions and live recordings, continue to be highly sought after by heavy metal collectors. For fans of thrash metal, Anthrax remain an essential band in any serious vinyl collection.