Thrashcast Episode 91: Anthrax's Spreading The Disease Album
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Thrashcast is the place to find riveting discussions on classic thrash albums, news and reviews. Your hosts are three thrash loving maniacs who grew up during the golden age of the genre. Kenneth, Billy and Jim will get together weekly to bring you a deep dive on some of your favourite thrash records.
Show Notes:
Episode Ninety-One: Jim and Ken return, along with Jason Deaville to discuss the sophomore release from Anthrax. Spreading the Disease was released October 1985 on Megaforce/Island Records, marking the vocal debut of Joey Belladonna. This album also featured the debut of bassist Frank Bello, who helped to solidify the band's signature sound going forward.
Spreading The Disease is also the band's major label debut; giving thrash fans a bevy of mosh heavy favourites like "A.I.R.", "Madhouse" and "Armed and Dangerous". Many of these songs are still in the live rotation to this very day and most recently on their 2026 tour, A.I.R, has been heavily featured as the opening number on these current shows. Belladonna's soaring vocals brings a new dynamic for the band, along with tight riffs and excellent sound and production. The album is a great leap forward, paying lyrical tribute to Stephen King and Greek Mythology.
Fun Facts: The album conceived by drummer Charlie Benante was created by artists Peter Corriston and Dave Heffernon. Peter had previously worked on the sleeve art to Led Zeppelin's Physical Graffiti.
Kenneth Gallant, HMS
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