During the global quarantine, metal legends from ANTHRAX and LAMB OF GOD came together for a special project: covering classic Discharge tracks. This collaborative effort offers fans a fresh take on punk’s most influential band, blending thrash metal intensity with punk’s raw energy. If you’re a fan of crossover thrash or just love hearing your favorite bands pay homage, this list highlights the key members involved and what makes these covers worth listening to.
Anthrax’s Scott Ian and Charlie Benante Cover ‘Protest and Survive’
Guitarist Scott Ian and drummer Charlie Benante teamed up to deliver a powerful rendition of Discharge’s iconic track ‘Protest and Survive.’ Ian’s thrash riffs and Benante’s precise drumming inject a new energy into the song, while maintaining the raw punk spirit. This cover is notable because it showcases Ian’s influence in blending punk’s fury with thrash metal’s technicality, making it a must-listen for fans of crossover thrash.
LAMB OF GOD’s Randy Blythe and Mark Morton Perform ‘Hear Nothing, See Nothing, Say Nothing’
Vocalist Randy Blythe and guitarist Mark Morton took on Discharge’s classic ‘Hear Nothing, See Nothing, Say Nothing,’ infusing it with LAMB OF GOD’s signature heaviness. Blythe’s gritty vocals complement Morton’s aggressive riffs, creating a cover that pays homage while adding their unique stamp. This track stands out as a testament to LAMB OF GOD’s respect for punk roots and their ability to reinterpret punk anthems with metal prowess.
Anthrax’s Frank Bello Joins for ‘Drug No More’
Bassist Frank Bello contributed to a fierce cover of ‘Drug No More,’ emphasizing the song’s anti-establishment message. Bello’s thick basslines anchor the track, while Ian and Benante’s guitar and drums drive the energy. This collaboration highlights how members of Anthrax can adapt punk’s rawness into their thrash metal style, making it a compelling listen for fans of crossover thrash.
LAMB OF GOD’s Chris Adler Adds Dynamic Drumming to ‘Decontrol’
Drummer Chris Adler’s performance on ‘Decontrol’ is particularly noteworthy, as his technical skill elevates the punk classic into a metal thrash anthem. Adler’s rapid-fire fills and precise timing bring a new dimension to the song, showcasing how metal drummers can honor punk’s simplicity while adding complexity. His contribution makes this cover a standout for fans of intricate drumming in punk-inspired metal.
Anthrax’s Joey Belladonna and LAMB OF GOD’s Randy Blythe Collaborate on ‘Ignorance’
In a rare collaboration, Joey Belladonna’s melodic vocals paired with Randy Blythe’s gritty delivery create a dynamic version of ‘Ignorance.’ The blend of Belladonna’s clean singing and Blythe’s raw intensity captures the song’s rebellious spirit while appealing to fans of both bands. This cover exemplifies how cross-band collaborations can produce fresh interpretations of classic punk tracks.
How to Choose
When selecting a cover version, consider what matters most: Do you prefer raw punk energy or a polished metal interpretation? Pay attention to the vocal style—whether it aligns more with punk or metal—and the band’s instrumental approach. Also, check if the cover maintains the original’s message or offers a new perspective. Personal taste in production quality and the specific band members involved can make a big difference in your listening experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are these covers officially released? Some are part of special quarantine projects or benefit compilations, while others are fan-made videos shared online.
- Can I find these covers on streaming platforms? Yes, many of these performances are uploaded to YouTube or included in digital releases from the bands.
- Do the bands stay true to the original songs? Most covers pay homage but often incorporate the bands’ signature styles, adding their own flavor while respecting the punk roots.
- Are these covers suitable for hardcore punk fans? While they add metal elements, the raw energy and punk spirit remain, making them appealing to punk purists as well.
- Will these covers influence future band collaborations? It’s possible, as these projects show how bands can creatively connect during times of quarantine or social distancing.
Final Thoughts
The quarantine-inspired collaboration between members of ANTHRAX and LAMB OF GOD covering Discharge highlights the enduring influence of punk on metal. These performances exemplify respect for punk’s raw energy while showcasing each band’s unique style. Whether you’re a die-hard punk fan or a metal enthusiast, these covers offer a fresh perspective on classic tracks, proving that music can unite artists and fans even in challenging times. Exploring these collaborations is a rewarding journey into how cross-genre respect and creativity can produce compelling new interpretations of timeless punk anthems.
Related
- Dee Snider on Bands Returning After Farewell Tours and Why He’s Right
- David Lee Roth Says Van Halen May Never Tour Again
- James Hetfield Teases New Metallica Music Dropping Tomorrow