March 22nd of every year, marks the anniversary of a pivotal point in the career of Anthrax, one of the pioneering forces of thrash metal.
The New York City
On March 22, 1987, the New York City quintet was riding high with the release of their groundbreaking third studio album, Among the Living, a record that not only defined the band but also cemented their place in metal history.
Formed in 1981, Anthrax had already carved out a name in the growing thrash movement alongside Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth, the “Big Four” of thrash. But it was in March 1987, with Among the Living hitting the shelves, that Anthrax truly made their mark. The album fused speed, aggression, and socially conscious themes with an unmistakable New York attitude. Songs like Indians, Caught in a Mosh, and the Stephen King–inspired title track quickly became fan favorites and remain staples of their live shows nearly four decades later.
A Turning Point In Metal
Among the Living showcased Anthrax’s unique ability to mix serious issues such as racism, justice, and nuclear fearwith a sense of humor and comic book–style flair. Their blend of sharp riffs, Scott Ian’s chugging rhythm guitar, Joey Belladonna’s soaring vocals, Charlie Benante’s innovative drumming, Frank Bello’s thundering bass, and Dan Spitz’s lead guitar work propelled the band into international recognition.
By the late ’80s, Anthrax weren’t just a metal band, they were cultural ambassadors. Their collaboration with Public Enemy on Bring the Noise in 1991 would later expand the boundaries of heavy music, but the seeds of that genre-blending fearlessness were already evident in 1987.
38 Years Later
As Anthrax celebrate this 38 year milestone in 2025, their legacy continues to thrive. Still touring, recording, and inspiring new generations, the band stands as a testament to thrash metal’s endurance. Among the Living remains not just a classic of its era but also a defining album in heavy metal history.
“March 22, 1987 was the day everything changed for us,” guitarist Scott Ian once reflected. “We went from being a cult band to being a force in metal. That record carried us around the world and still speaks for us today.”
Nearly four decades on, the mosh pit spirit lives strong. Anthrax’s 38th anniversary of that breakthrough moment is more than just a date, it’s a celebration of thrash metal’s lasting power, New York grit, and the band’s refusal to ever slow down.
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