Among the Living
Anthrax bring an unusual combination of enthusiasm and aggression to Among the Living. The riffs have the speed and weight of thrash, but the shouted backing vocals and sharp changes in rhythm also suggest a room full of people joining in. Joey Belladonna's melodic singing gives that collective noise a clear point of contrast.
The title track starts on a more ominous note before the band accelerate. Scott Ian's rhythm guitar and Charlie Benante's drums work together with considerable force, making the sudden turns feel natural. There is enough detail to reward attention without reducing the immediate excitement.
Caught In A Mosh is the most direct expression of the record's personality. Its bass-led opening and tightly organised riffing set up a chorus built for participation. The song manages to sound angry and enjoyable at once. That mixture separates Anthrax from bands who treat every fast riff as a declaration of total misery.
I Am The Law uses a heavier, more deliberate central figure. The comic-book subject suits the exaggerated delivery, while the arrangement has enough changes to keep the story moving. Belladonna's high melodies can seem unusually polished beside the rough backing shouts, but the disagreement gives the music character.
The social messages are more uneven. Indians has conviction and a strong rhythmic break, yet some of the language is broad and awkward. Efilnikufesin (N.F.L.) has similar tension between a serious subject and a performance that sounds almost celebratory. The music communicates excitement more clearly than the words communicate nuance.
A Skeleton In The Closet and Imitation Of Life keep the guitar attack sharp, while A.D.I./Horror Of It All opens a darker space. A few transitions are crowded, but the playing gives them purpose. The record's most lasting quality is its willingness to let a distinct group personality into demanding music. The discipline is real, and so is the sense that the band are enjoying the noise they make together.
