Anthrax will release their first studio project in ten years, announcing that their 12th album, Cursum Perficio, will arrive September 18. The release follows 2016’s For All Kings, which reached the Billboard 200 Top 10. The album title, taken from Latin, translates to “My journey has come to an end” or “I complete my journey.” Despite the meaning, the band insists it does not signal a farewell.
Recorded at Studio 606 and produced by Jay Ruston alongside the band, Cursum Perficio captures the emotions and momentum Anthrax experienced after years away from the studio. Guitarist Scott Ian reflected on the lengthy process, explaining, “It was quite a journey from the inception of this album to its completion.” He added that the pandemic delayed plans to begin recording in 2020, but reconnecting afterward reignited the band creatively. According to Ian, the energy of finally making music together again shaped the album’s intensity and spirit.
Drummer Charlie Benante revealed that the title came from a documentary about Marilyn Monroe, where he noticed the phrase displayed in her former home. “We aren’t saying this is our last record, but our journey has come to an end. I believe we’ve completed the task,” he said.
To introduce the project, the legendary thrash band released the lead single and video for “It’s For the Kids,”with the video nodding to the band’s classic “Madhouse” clip, placing the members back inside an asylum-inspired setting. “It’s For the Kids” blends the band’s trademark thrash attack with heavier groove-driven elements, while vocalist Joey Belladonna delivers a powerful performance. Ian described the song as “a straight-up love letter to your fans,” saying the album needed an aggressive, fast-paced anthem that reflected the band’s early years.
Anthrax will support the album with extensive touring, including upcoming European dates with Iron Maiden before returning to North America later this year alongside Iron Maiden and Megadeth.
Watch the video for “It’s For the Kids” – HERE.
Presave Cursum Perficio – HERE.
Editorial credit: ChrisJamesRyanPhotography / Shuttertock.com