About This Footage
The raw energy of a live performance, captured in all its unbridled glory. This footage, shot on November 16th, 1987 at London's Hammersmith Odeon, is an electrifying snippet from Anthrax's "Among The Living" tour. The band was on fire that year, and this clip - a brief but incendiary introduction to their set - showcases the unrelenting intensity of their live shows.
At the time of this performance, Anthrax was riding high on the success of their third studio album, "Among The Living". Released in April 1987, it marked a significant shift in the band's sound, incorporating more complex song structures and a greater emphasis on melody. This new direction was met with critical acclaim, and the album would go on to become one of the band's most beloved works.
The clip itself is remarkable for its brevity - a mere 1:27 seconds long - yet it packs an enormous punch. The opening riff, played by Scott Ian and Dan Spitz, is a blistering example of the twin guitar attack that Anthrax had honed to perfection over their early years. Charlie Benante's drums thunder in the background, providing the perfect foundation for Joey Belladonna's vocals, which burst forth like a wild animal unleashed.
This footage is rare because it captures the band at a pivotal moment in their career - when they were transitioning from a thrash metal upstart to a more refined and sophisticated act. It's also significant because it showcases the band's ability to craft infectious, high-energy live performances that would become a hallmark of their reputation as one of the leading bands of the 80s metal scene.
Watching this clip, viewers will be struck by the raw energy of Anthrax's performance. The band was known for their intense live shows, which often featured elaborate stage sets and pyrotechnics. But it's in moments like these - brief, spontaneous introductions to their set - that we see the true essence of their live performances: a sense of reckless abandon and unbridled enthusiasm.
One of the most striking aspects of this clip is its use of the "Blues Brothers" intro riff, which would become a staple of Anthrax's live shows. The band's love of blues and rock 'n' roll influences was always evident in their music, but it's in moments like these that we see them paying homage to their roots.
The significance of this clip extends beyond its rarity or historical context - although those aspects are certainly noteworthy. It's a testament to the enduring power of live music, captured in all its raw, unbridled glory. Watching Anthrax launch into "Among The Living" is like being transported back to the sweaty, frenetic atmosphere of 80s metal clubs. It's an experience that will leave viewers breathless and begging for more.
This clip may be brief, but it's a potent reminder of the impact that Anthrax had on the metal scene in the late 80s. Their influence can still be felt today, with bands like Metallica and Slayer citing them as one of their primary influences. Watching this footage is like experiencing a piece of history - a glimpse into a bygone era when metal was raw, unbridled, and utterly unstoppable.
Curated from public records and music databases.
