Anthrax have been going from strength to strength for the past few years. With the return of vocalist Joey Belladonna, the Big Four shows which saw them share the stage with fellow thrash icons Metallica, Megadeth and Slayer, and the 2011 release of Worship Music, Anthrax have been tearing it up all over the world and taking no prisoners.
Since Anthrax are returning to Australian shores as part of the Soundwave Festival I thought it would be good to ask Seymour Duncan artist, Anthrax guitarist and founding member Scott Ian a few questions.
Worship Music has been a very successful album for you and band, especially with the return of Joey Belladonna to the mic. How has it been touring the new album? Do the new tracks get as big a response from the audience as the classic stuff?
Yes, the songs from Worship Music have really connected and fit seamlessly in the set.
Anthrax are coming out to Australia this month for the Soundwave Festival. You did the festival a few years back with The Damned Things. What did you enjoy most about Soundwave, and what are you looking most forward to this time?
I’ve done it in 2010 with Anthrax and in 2011 with The Damned Things. I expect this trip to be the best of all of them. It’s the best lineup that we’ve been a part of on Soundwave and we’re on fire!
You’ve been using Seymour Duncan pickups for some time now. What drew you to them?
I’ve been using them since around 1981. They just helped me get the tone I heard in my head.

The Seymour Duncan Custom Shop makes a signature pickup for you, the El Diablo. Where did this design originate, and how does it work for you in the studio and on stage?
I needed a pickup that had all the energy and gain I need but also be able to clean up really well. Duncan made it for me and it works great.
And lastly, a bit of a personal question from me. The Damned Things has to be one of my favourite albums from the past few years. Are there any plans for a follow up album?
At this time, no. We’re all too busy with our bands to be able to focus on it.

Soundwave Festival Dates
Saturday 23rd February – Brisbane
Sunday 24th February – Sydney
Friday 1st March – Melbourne
Saturday 2nd March – Adelaide
Monday 4th March – Perth

Anthrax Australian Dates
Mon 25 February – Sydney – Big Top Luna Park (with Slayer)
Thu 28 February – Melbourne – The Hi-Fi (with Fozzy)

Scott Ian/Chris Jericho Spoken Word Australian Dates
Tuesday 26 February – Sydney – Oxford Arts Factory
Wednesday 27 February – Melbourne – The Toff In Town