Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy has publicly praised Anthrax’s new album, “Cursum Perficio,” the band’s first new release in a decade, in a post shared on Instagram.
Portnoy’s message reflected on the significance of the long gap between albums and the energy he heard in the new material.
“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!” Portnoy said.
He went on to highlight the band’s continued intensity after four decades together.
“This album sounds as hungry and inspired as they were 40 years ago!” he continued. “So proud of them for killing it once again and can’t wait to hear these songs live!”
Portnoy’s comments arrive alongside a wave of attention surrounding the album’s official release, offering some context on just how significant this comeback is for Anthrax and their fans.
“Cursum Perficio” officially dropped on September 18, 2026, marking Anthrax’s 12th studio album and their first full-length effort since 2016’s “For All Kings.” The record was released via Megaforce in the U.S. and Nuclear Blast in Europe. Its arrival closed out a ten-year gap that left longtime fans eagerly anticipating new material from the New York thrash veterans.
The 11-track album features cuts including “Persistence of Memory,” “The Long Goodbye,” “It’s for the Kids,” “Everybody’s Got a Plan,” and the title track “Cursum Perficio.” The title track was released as the album’s fourth single, alongside an official music video that premiered just one day before the full record hit shelves.
Guitarist Scott Ian has been vocal in interviews leading up to the release. He discussed the challenge of building a setlist that satisfies both longtime fans and newcomers drawn in by the new material. Several new songs, including “It’s for the Kids,” “Everybody’s Got a Plan,” and “The Edge of Perfection,” have already made their way into the band’s live sets ahead of the album’s release.
Beyond the music itself, Anthrax has leaned into the album’s rollout with additional promotional efforts, including a limited-edition collaboration with Dark Matter Coffee tied to the “Cursum Perficio” release. The band has also hinted at touring plans. Ian suggested a full tour cycle will kick off in early 2027, potentially bringing the band back to markets like Brazil for the first time in years.
Portnoy’s endorsement adds to a growing chorus of praise following the album’s release. “Cursum Perficio” appears to be resonating with both peers and longtime fans, proving that Anthrax’s decade-long wait was worth it.
