Just as we were saying that Anthrax are not looking to audition anybody for their newly open lead guitarist spot, after Rob Caggiano announced he was leaving, the band has just released a press release announcing that Shadows Fall guitarist Jon Donais, who will step in for all of 'thrax's immediate touring. Here is the official statement from the band:
"Jon is a bro and he's also a total f**king ripper," said Scott Ian. "I've worked with him twice before on side projects and he tears it up. I'm excited to have him on my right burning up the stage with Anthrax. 13's gonna be a good year."
"I grew up on Anthrax, they're the thrash scene, they're one of The Big Four, I'd be crazy to not want to play with them," said Donais. "Initially, Rob called and told me he was leaving the band, and asked if I'd be interested in filling in. Then Scott called me and everything fell into place. Rob and I are using Skype to work on solos and other guitar parts, so he's being great. I also have to give special thanks to my band – Brian, Matt, Jason and Ed – who have been incredibly supportive and encouraged me to do this."
Coincidentally, this is the second Shadows Fall member to step in for Anthrax, as this past summer on the Mayhem Fest, Shadows Fall drummer Jason Bitner filled in for Charlie Benante.
In related news, MetalSucks reports that the band announced their their covers EP, Anthem will be released on March 18th and feature covers of Rush's "Anthem," Thin Lizzy's "Jailbreak," AC/DC's "TNT", Cheap Trick's "Big Eyes," Boston's "Smokin" and Journey's "Keep on Runnin'."
The release will fall right in line with the band's headlining stint on the Metal Alliance Tour where they will be playing their classic album Among The Living in full.
