Photo: Press
It’s 2016 and the 'Big Four' are still at it. Last year Slayer released Repentless, Megadeth recently dropped Dystopia and Metallica have new music in the works. Now, Anthrax are back after a five year hiatus with For All Kings.
Whether it’s a good or bad thing, For All Kings is comfortably nostalgic without being too conventional. 'You Gotta Believe' is a direct, catchy opener with that typical and much loved Anthrax sound. It has that definitive thrash element with an elaborate, intriguing solo. Joey Belladonna’s voice is just as we remember it. His distinctive vocals are a trademark of the band and his dynamic range is strangely ageless. It’s hard to believe that the band got rid of him. Twice.
Essential tracks like 'Blood Eagle Wings' stands strong with its non-arbitrary multi-movements and speedy pacing that unfolds into sludgy glory. Likewise “Suzerain” is a hammering rendition of that 1980s thrash metal sound in all its greatness, as the spitting riffs seep into heavier tones. But there are weaker intervals; some tracks follow a verse-chorus-verse direction with a guitar solo thrown in which can be mechanical. Although the solid single choices in 'Evil Twin' and 'Breathing Lightning' are ample examples of what Anthrax does best.
For All Kings is something of a victory lap. The album doesn’t have anything shocking in it, but at the same time it doesn’t feel like Anthrax are going through contractual motions. How much you’ll love it will depend on how much you enjoyed Worship Music. It’s no Among The Living, but Anthrax are not the Anthrax of 1987. However it’s a genuine gem to any metal worshippers wanting to relive a bit of former glory.
For All Kings as a whole is a solid revamp of that heavy, classic sound they pioneered thirty years ago. Their fresh sound amongst the retro elements show that you can teach old dogs some new tricks.
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