New York heavy metal titans ANTHRAX have announced their long-awaited 12th studio album ‚Cursum Perficio‘, set for release on September 18th, 2026 via Nuclear Blast Records and Megaforce Records. The announcement comes alongside the release of the first single and video, ‚It’s For The Kids‘, a ferocious thrash ripper that signals a triumphant return for the multi-GRAMMY-nominated quintet.New York heavy metal legends ANTHRAX have officially announced their 12th full-length studio album, ‚Cursum Perficio‘, scheduled for release on September 18th, 2026 through Nuclear Blast Records and Megaforce Records in North America. The record marks the band’s first studio effort in a decade, following 2016’s ‚For All Kings‘, which debuted in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200.
The Latin phrase ‚Cursum Perficio‘ translates to ‚My journey has come to an end‘ or ‚I complete my journey‘, a title the band considers deeply reflective of the creative odyssey behind the record. Recorded at Dave Grohl’s Studio 606 in Los Angeles beginning in 2022 and produced by Jay Ruston alongside ANTHRAX, the album channels the emotional weight of the pandemic years alongside the renewed energy of reunion.
Guitarist Scott Ian described the process as a kind of rebirth, noting that the fear and isolation of those years, combined with the joy of returning to the studio together, are embedded throughout the music. Drummer Charlie Benante drew inspiration for the title from a tile inscription in Marilyn Monroe’s last home, calling the record a culmination of everything the band has learned across four decades.
Leading the release is the debut single ‚It’s For The Kids‘, a relentless four-minute thrash anthem complete with buzzsaw riffs, explosive drumming, and a chorus built for arenas. The accompanying music video pays homage to the band’s classic ‚Madhouse‘ clip and features fan participation filmed in Pennsylvania. ANTHRAX have described the track as a direct love letter to their fanbase, and all five members agree it captures the band at its most vital and aggressive. The 11-track album is available for pre-order now.
Photo: Travis Shinn