Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy shared a review of Anthrax’s new album, ‘Cursum Perficio,’ the band’s first new album in 10 years.
“Huge Congrats to my brothers in Anthrax on their long-awaited new album Cursum Perficio…it’s incredible that it’s been 10 years since their last new album, but it’s all about quality not quantity!”
“This album sounds as hungry and inspired as they were 40 years ago! So proud of them for killing it once again and can’t wait to hear these songs live!”
Portnoy’s praise arrives as the record finally lands in the hands of fans. The drummer’s words underline how significant the release is for thrash metal, and the album’s background explains why the wait was so long.
Anthrax announced Cursum Perficio in May 2026 for release on September 18, 2026, via Nuclear Blast Records and Megaforce Records in North America. The title is Latin for “I complete my journey,” a phrase that frames the album as a statement rather than a simple comeback. The title carries the meaning of “my journey has come to an end.”
The album was introduced with the single “It’s for the Kids,” which set the tone for the band’s return. The 11-track album reflects Anthrax’s mix of finessed brutality, incisive melodies and experimental flourishes. The record runs 53 minutes across its 11 songs and includes videos for “The Edge of Perfection” and “It’s For the Kids.”
The current lineup includes Scott Ian, Charlie Benante, Frank Bello, Joey Belladonna and Jonathan Donais. The band spent years writing and refining the material before finishing the recording and sending the album to be mixed in 2025. Cursum Perficio is Anthrax’s twelfth studio album.
Cursum Perficio is Anthrax’s first full-length release since 2016’s For All Kings. The gap made the new album a long-awaited follow-up rather than a quick turnaround, and the band has continued to position the release as a major return. For Portnoy, the result justifies the patience, and his comments suggest the record will carry well beyond its release week.
