Anthrax Concert Review

Anthrax is a band notorious for 80’s thrash metal, music that makes you want to drink, thrash around, and have great time. It had been 32 years since they were Edmonton last – which was well before my time – so when it was announced that Anthrax, Testament, and Death Angel would be making a stop in the city I was thrilled. Of all the bands I have seen, both at big festivals or tours that pass through I have seen Anthrax.

Death Angel started off the night, and quickly rifled through 30 minute set. I have seen Death Angel a few times in the past; with the latest over a year ago on the 2011 70000 Tons of Metal cruise. This performance was quite a change from on the boat; maybe it was the open water on the cruise that made them seem boring. I personally would have loved to have seen Testament and Anthrax bring along one of the “new generation” of thrash metal right now such as Holy Grail or Bonded by Blood as an opening act, but either way Death Angel were a solid opening band.

Testament always put on great performance, this was our third time seeing the band I the past six weeks. I just can’t get over how good Gene Hoglan playing drums for the band sounds; he is literally a machine back there. I didn’t realize that Chuck Billy was also a giant of a man, he has to be at least six foot six or taller; however he still moves around stage like an eighteen-year-old kid! I was shocked that the place was only half full before Testament went on stage, however after playing a selection of new material, and older music the band left the stage and the venue completely filled up. I found it strange because the band had been to Edmonton a couple years ago and completely sold out a 5000 person venue, however there was maybe 600 people watching their set this year.

After a quick set change, the Anthrax banner was raised and Scott Ian led the way onstage for Anthrax. It’s hard to believe that not only has Anthrax been around since 1981, but that they have aged quite well for being in a full-time tour band. They quickly pounded through Fight ‘Em, Caught in a Mosh, and Antisocial. The set also included Deathrider, which most people over thirty were quick thrilled about. With a combination of newer music, as well as older songs the band was able to play thirty years of music without losing a beat in just over 90 minutes. I’d have to say that this was one of the best concerts I have been to in 2012, and advised anyone that is close to one of the stops on this tour to check it out.

Make sure you take a look at photos from Testament, and Death Angel in our Photo Gallery section as well!

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