Former Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony recently spoke with Matt Bingham of the Z93 radio show and shed light on his role in the band’s deluxe reissue process, particularly the much-anticipated expanded edition of 5150, the group’s first album with vocalist Sammy Hagar.
Anthony made it clear that although he’s not running the project, he is involved in listening to material and giving feedback: he and longtime engineer Donn Landee help review mixes and artwork concepts and offer opinions on what should or shouldn’t be included. He put it simply, saying they “throw our two cents in” on elements like bonus tracks, sequencing and packaging.
He admitted that while he doesn’t consider himself a marketing expert, his ears and instincts as someone who lived the music are part of the process — from hearing old recordings he hasn’t listened to in years to revisiting songs like 5150 and OU812. That moment of rediscovery, he said, can be nostalgic and illuminating.
Background: What’s Being Reissued
The deluxe reissue line kicking off with 5150 marks another major chapter in the Van Halen catalog renaissance. The 5150 40th-anniversary editions due out through Rhino include remastered albums, rarities and archival material from the Hagar era.
Anthony’s comments reflect a broader archive-oriented effort: in past interviews he’s noted that a huge vault of unreleased material exists from Van Halen’s career, including live recordings, alternative takes, and jams recorded over decades. While much of that material hasn’t been officially released, Anthony has hinted that there’s a plan to explore and potentially expand these reissues further.
🎶 Anthony’s Personal Take On The Music
While talking about reissues, Anthony also opened up about revisiting the music:
- He acknowledged that some reissued material brings back memories, not all of which he’s heard recently, but that resonate deeply once he listens again.
- On Sammy Hagar’s current Vegas residency and setlists, Anthony has teased deep cuts from the Van Halen catalog, often suggesting songs from the vault or tracks not regularly performed live, though always with deference to what Hagar feels comfortable singing.
What This Means For Fans
Anthony’s comments signal a collaborative, if structured, role in how Van Halen’s legacy is presented:
- He’s not in charge of reissues, but he participates in decisions on sound, content and presentation.
- His involvement ensures that longtime band perspectives, not just label choices, influence how archival material is curated.
- There’s ongoing interest in digging further into Van Halen’s archives, though how much of that reaches official release remains to be seen.
In summary: Michael Anthony’s role in the Van Halen deluxe reissues is consultative and rooted in his deep history with the music offering honest feedback and helping shape how classic records are revived for fans old and new. His firsthand involvement enriches the process, giving it authenticity and reverence for the band’s legacy.
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