In a world where artists often hype their new releases, Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian takes it up a notch by boldly declaring that one of their upcoming album's tracks, 'The Edge of Perfection,' is the pinnacle of their musical journey. This statement is not just a marketing tactic but a reflection of the band's deep connection with this particular song.
What makes this declaration intriguing is the context in which it was made. In an interview with Full Metal Jackie, Ian revealed that the song holds a special place in his heart, as it is a testament to his family and the pursuit of perfection. He shared, 'I've never had any other goal in life except to be happy, and I am.' This personal revelation adds a layer of depth to the song's meaning and showcases the band's vulnerability.
The journey to creating 'Cursum Perficio,' the album that houses this masterpiece, was not without its challenges. The band faced an unexpected pause in early 2020, leaving them uncertain about their future. It was a period of reflection and doubt, as venues closed and the music industry ground to a halt. However, this hiatus also fueled their creativity, as they emerged from the pandemic with a renewed sense of purpose and energy.
Ian described the recording process as a unique and deliberate experience. The band split the recording into two sessions, allowing them to live with the songs, refine them, and discover new dimensions. This approach, he believes, resulted in a more consistent and polished album. The song 'It's for the Kids,' the first single, is a testament to this process, as it embodies the essence of Anthrax and serves as a love letter to their fans.
When asked about the timelessness of their music, Ian reflected on how each album captures a specific moment in time. He believes that their latest record, with songs like 'NYC '93,' is a reflection of their current state as artists. The lyrics, penned by Ian, are deeply personal and timely, offering a glimpse into his life and experiences.
The album's title, 'Cursum Perficio,' translates to 'My journey ends here,' and it couldn't be more fitting. It symbolizes the band's resilience and their ability to overcome challenges. Ian shared, 'The title speaks volumes about what it was like for us, and it truly captures the emotion of not being able to move forward as a band.'
As Anthrax gears up for their new record and upcoming shows, including a tour with Iron Maiden, the excitement within the metal community is palpable. The band's world is thriving, and the metal scene as a whole is in a healthy and vibrant state.
In a fun twist, when asked to curate a dream music festival, Ian chose bands he never got to see in their prime, including AC/DC with Bon Scott, Thin Lizzy, and Led Zeppelin. This reveals a side of the musician that is not just a performer but also a passionate fan.
Anthrax's new album, 'Cursum Perficio,' is set to release on September 18th, and with songs like 'The Edge of Perfection' and 'It's for the Kids,' it promises to be a powerful addition to their discography. As Ian puts it, 'We have not written anything this great in our career.'
From the challenges of the pandemic to the personal reflections on family and happiness, Anthrax's journey to 'Cursum Perficio' is a testament to their resilience and artistic growth. It's a story of perseverance and the power of music to transcend difficult times.
