ANTHRAX's SCOTT IAN: 'It's Always Odd To Me' Which Songs 'People Know And Don't Know Off Our Records'

Why It Matters

The setlist choices illustrate how legacy metal acts adapt to streaming‑driven fan expectations, while the tour and new album create fresh revenue streams and re‑energize a global audience.

Key Takeaways

• Setlist mixes classics with rarely played tracks.
• “Deathrider” and “Metal Thrashing Mad” return after decades.
• Fans’ song familiarity shaped by streaming playlists.
• New album slated for May, recorded at Grohl’s Studio 606.
• Australian tour marks first headlining shows there in 20+ years

Pulse Analysis

Anthrax’s upcoming Australian dates highlight a strategic setlist overhaul that balances fan‑favorite anthems with long‑neglected deep cuts. Scott Ian explained that while the band can play any song, they deliberately rotate tracks like “Deathrider” from *Fistful of Metal* and “Metal Thrashing Mad” to keep the experience fresh. This approach counters the algorithmic homogenization of streaming platforms, where only the top‑20 songs dominate listeners’ memories, and reinforces the band’s reputation for delivering unpredictable, high‑energy shows.

The four‑city trek marks Anthrax’s first headlining tour of Australia in more than twenty years, a milestone that underscores the market’s appetite for classic thrash metal. Live music revenues in the region have surged post‑pandemic, and legacy acts are capitalising on nostalgia‑driven ticket sales. By scheduling shows in Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney, the band taps into densely populated urban centres, maximising attendance potential and merchandise upside while reaffirming their global touring footprint.

Beyond the stage, Anthrax is gearing up for a new studio album slated for May, with recording sessions at Dave Grohl’s iconic Studio 606 and production by longtime collaborator Jay Ruston. The involvement of a high‑profile studio adds cachet and signals a commitment to top‑tier sound quality, appealing to both longtime fans and newer listeners discovering the band via streaming. This release, paired with the Australian tour, positions Anthrax to leverage cross‑promotional opportunities, drive streaming numbers, and sustain their relevance in a competitive metal landscape.