Anthrax – Complete the Course

Ten years after their last studio album, Anthrax makes a powerful return with their 12th opus, Cursum Perficio. A highly anticipated comeback that should surprise and fill the void left by a decade of silence.

The Loop Comes Full Circle

With its Latin title that resembles an obscure formula, Anthrax sends a clear message: “my path is coming to an end.” This might lead one to think that the New Yorkers are implicitly announcing the end of their career. But that is not the case! The band reassures: this is simply a milestone reached, a new page turning, made possible by all the steps and productions that came before it.

And indeed, Anthrax appears to want to pay homage to its past victories. A small nod to Persistence Of Time with the intro “Persistence Of Memory,” or with “NYC 93,” a sharp and fast track, no frills, which plunges us back into the golden age of thrash. The single “It’s For The Kids” also captures this zeal, in a true ode to their fans promising numerous moshes at upcoming concerts.

A Taste for Renewal

But Anthrax does not rest on its laurels and even manages to surprise its fans. On first listen to “The Edge Of Perfection,” one could almost wonder if one is dealing with a blackened atmospheric outfit, with blast beats and a slightly dissonant melodic blanket. And yet, Anthrax treats us to one of the album’s main pieces: nearly seven minutes carried by catchy grooves and a highly melodic chorus.

The 2026 version of Anthrax is a matured band that dares novelty without losing its signature and still masters the art of the riff just as well. Joey Belladonna’s voice resonates with untouched freshness, while Charlie Benante delivers incisive and energized drumming. “Watch It Go” leaves ample space for the razor-sharp riffs of Scott Ian, while Frank Bello asserts his bass on “My Victory.” All of it preserves that feel‑good energy that is part of the band’s DNA.

With Cursum Perficio, Anthrax opens a new chapter without turning its back on what once made it strong. The album may be less hook‑driven than its predecessor, but some tracks still stand out for their efficiency and originality. After ten years away, the New Yorkers prove above all that they remain angry, aggressive and definitely alive.

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