ANTHRAX's CHARLIE BENANTE On 'It's For The Kids' Single: 'We Wanted To Release Something That Shows We're Not Slowing Down'

Why It Matters

Anthrax’s new release proves that legacy thrash acts can still generate fresh demand, reinforcing their relevance in today’s metal market and offering lucrative collector‑item formats for fans.

Key Takeaways

• First Anthrax album in a decade drops Sep 18
• “It’s For The Kids” signals no creative slowdown
• Album recorded at Dave Grohl’s Studio 606
• Multiple exclusive vinyl editions target collectors
• Title inspired by Marilyn Monroe documentary

Pulse Analysis

Anthrax’s upcoming twelfth album, Cursum Perficio, marks a rare milestone for a band that helped define East Coast thrash metal. After a decade-long hiatus, the group returns with a record recorded at Dave Grohl’s famed Studio 606, blending the aggression of their classic era with modern production values. Producer Jay Ruston and the band aim to capture the raw energy that propelled albums like 2016’s For All Kings into the Billboard Top 10, while also exploring personal themes such as loss and perseverance.

The lead single, It’s For The Kids, has been framed by drummer Charlie Benante as a love letter to the fanbase, emphasizing that Anthrax remains as fierce as ever. Benante’s candid discussion reveals a songwriting process that revived older demos from 2015 alongside fresh material, highlighting the collaborative dynamic between Benante, guitarist Scott Ian, and bassist Frank Bello. Lyrically, the album delves into intimate narratives—Scott Ian’s tribute to his father’s battle with Alzheimer’s on The Long Goodbye—adding emotional depth to the band’s signature sonic assault.

From a business perspective, the album’s rollout leverages a multi‑tiered physical strategy, offering exclusive vinyl variants through Target, Amazon, Metal Injection, and other partners. These collector‑focused releases tap into the resurgence of vinyl sales, providing higher margins and fan engagement opportunities. Coupled with the band’s 40‑year legacy and continued touring clout, Cursum Perficio positions Anthrax to capitalize on both nostalgia and new‑generation metal listeners, reinforcing their standing in a competitive streaming‑driven market.