In the unforgiving landscape of Los Angeles thrash metal, few names carry as much weight as Steve Gaines. Twenty years ago, this veteran of the metal scene, already known for his work with Abattoir and Bloodlust, embarked on what was initially planned to be his swan song – a project that would eventually evolve into one of the most respected acts in modern thrash metal: Anger As Art.
Today, NoLifeTilMetal Records announces a milestone celebration that thrash aficionados worldwide have been waiting for – the 20th-anniversary reissue of Anger As Art's self-titled debut album, complete with a meticulous remaster and, for the first time ever, a vinyl pressing that promises to deliver this thrash classic in its most potent form yet.
What started as a solo venture in 2004 would soon transform into something far more significant. Steve Gaines, fresh from his stints with legendary acts like Bloodlust and Abattoir, approached the project with a no-compromise attitude that had become his trademark. The debut album was a pure manifestation of his vision, with Gaines handling all instrumental duties himself – a fact that makes the record's ferocious energy even more impressive.
"This album was meant to be my farewell to metal," Gaines recalls in the extensive liner notes accompanying the reissue. "But the response was so overwhelming that it demanded we turn it into a full band. The demand was simply too strong to ignore."
The album's original release captured the essence of old-school thrash while injecting it with a modern intensity that set it apart from its contemporaries. Now, thanks to the masterful touch of Rob Colwell, whose work with bands like Nevermore, Voivod, and Flotsam & Jetsam has earned him legendary status in the metal community, the album sounds more massive than ever.
The remastering process has maintained the raw aggression of the original while bringing out subtle nuances that were previously buried in the mix. The result is a sonic assault that proves why this album has stood the test of time.
Since its inception, Anger As Art has evolved from a solo project into a formidable force in the thrash metal scene. The band's impressive roster has included members who have played with some of metal's most revered names – Death, Manowar, Raven, and Heretic, among others. This pedigree is evident in every note of the debut album, which set the standard for everything that would follow.
Over the years, Anger As Art has shared stages with an impressive array of metal royalty – from Destruction and Overkill to Testament and Saxon. They've proven themselves worthy torchbearers of the thrash metal tradition, but it all started with this debut – a record that captured the pure essence of what makes thrash metal such an enduring force.
The 2025 reissue is more than just a remaster – it's a celebration of thrash metal craftsmanship. The vinyl edition comes pressed on heavyweight orange vinyl, accompanied by a full-color insert that includes rare photos and memorabilia from the band's earliest days. The CD version is housed in a deluxe package featuring expanded liner notes, complete lyrics, and extensive commentary from Steve Gaines himself, offering insights into the album's creation and the band's subsequent journey.
Both formats include four explosive live bonus tracks, including a devastating cover of Sepultura that showcases the band's ability to pay homage to their influences while maintaining their distinctive sound.
Twenty years on, Anger As Art's debut album stands as a testament to the enduring power of thrash metal when it's created with genuine passion and expertise. What began as Steve Gaines' intended farewell to metal instead became the foundation for one of the genre's most consistent and respected acts.
The album's re-release serves as both a celebration of the past and a reminder that authentic, uncompromising thrash metal will always have a place in the hearts of metalheads worldwide. For longtime fans, it's a chance to experience a classic album in the best possible quality. For newcomers, it's an opportunity to discover why Anger As Art has earned their place in the pantheon of thrash metal excellence.
Pre-orders for both the CD and vinyl editions begin this Friday, offering metal fans worldwide the chance to own a piece of thrash metal history. Whether you're a longtime follower or just discovering the band, this reissue proves that some things only get better with age – especially when they're fueled by genuine anger and artistic integrity.
