The long wait for new material from thrash titans Anthrax is officially entering its final phase. The band has completed filming the music video for the lead single of their upcoming studio album, which is tentatively scheduled to hit shelves in early 2026 via Megaforce in North America and Nuclear Blast in Europe.
Guitarist Scott Ian confirmed the milestone on social media this past Saturday, December 20, celebrating the completion of both the record and the visual component in one fell swoop.
“Album is done. First video is shot. Thank you all for braving the cold with us to make something killer! A great day for all of us!” Ian wrote, adding, “So much more Anthrax coming in 2026! Until then have a great holiday!”
Drummer Charlie Benante offered his own perspective on the shoot, teasing a mystery song title and hinting that the video pays homage to a moment from the band’s past.
“We shot a video yesterday for a new song ‘it’s *** *** **‘, it’s a bit of a throw back to another video. I couldn’t help but have a little fun with some friends who showed up. I want to thank them for being there and being a part of a very long and cold day. We had some fun with a sing along @kissonline @judaspriest #watchthebeat”
The new LP, which saw mixing and recording sessions take place at Dave Grohl‘s Studio 606 in Northridge, California, reunites the band with producer Jay Ruston (For All Kings, Worship Music). Speaking recently on the “100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal” podcast, Benante expressed supreme confidence in the finished product.
“We have a new Anthrax record coming out early next year… And not because it’s our record, but God, this record is so good. And I know it took a long time to make, but I think people will really be surprised and they will really grasp this and just be, like, ‘Oh my God. This is worth the weight.’ At least that’s what I think.”
Benante also highlighted the critical role Ruston plays in the band’s modern era, comparing him to the “Fifth Beatle.”
“Jay‘s done the last few Anthrax records, and he’s become… We talked about George Martin before, and Jay has become that [for us],” Benante explained. “And him and I have been working very close on this record.”
According to the drummer, the album is designed to be a cohesive journey rather than just a collection of singles.
“A couple of months ago, I started to listen to all of [the songs from the new Anthrax album] in the order that I think we’re gonna put the record in, and it’s, like, ‘Wow, this is really good,'” Benante said. “It’s the best thing when you could put them all together and it just flows. So I’m really excited about it… We pushed the envelope on this record too, so I’m happy about that.”
