Volume 8: The Threat Is Real

Volume 8: The Threat Is Real is an ambitious work on which Anthrax, while keeping thrash metal’s edge at its core, actively takes in thick, powerful groove, hard-rock hooks and a more modern sonic weight. A record of the period John Bush belonged, it greatly widens its musical range. Each song differs greatly in expression, yet the playing always has a sure momentum moving powerfully forward. From the powerful drive of the opener “Crush” and the drama of “Catharsis” to a cut like “Inside Out,” every song is engaging, while the aggression of “P & V” and a cut like “Killing Box” convey the work’s fullness. Various elements — thrash, groove metal and hard rock — mix freely and by no means stay within a single mold. A record whose flexibility, not forcibly fitting into one style, is a great appeal of the band in this period. Its guest lineup is gorgeous too, such as Pantera’s Phil Anselmo appearing. You can fully enjoy both aggression and catchiness. A powerful, engaging record showing the varied fullness of John Bush’s tenure — a record where the band’s breadth shines.