ANTHRAX I Am The Law Thrash Metal Album Cover Photos & 12" Vinyl LP Discography Information #vinylrecords

"I Am The Law" Album Description

In 1987, Anthrax cemented their status as thrash metal titans with the release of their iconic single, "I Am The Law." This anthem of rebellion and raw power, inspired by the uncompromising comic book anti-hero Judge Dredd, remains a classic in their catalog and a defining song within the entire heavy metal genre.

The Sound: Fast, Furious, and Unforgettable

"I Am The Law" bursts from the speakers with an adrenaline-fueled assault of thrash metal intensity. Scott Ian's razor-sharp riffs and Charlie Benante's relentless drumming lay the foundation for an unyielding rhythm section. Joey Belladonna's vocals soar with an infectious energy, spitting out the defiant lyrics with punk-fueled attitude. The song maintains an unrelenting pace, punctuated by a melodic solo that cuts through the sonic onslaught.

Icon of a Dystopian Future

Inspired by the uncompromising Judge Dredd, the lyrics to "I Am The Law" dive into a dystopian vision of a world where one figure holds absolute power. Dredd is the embodiment of order at any cost, and the song's repeated chant of "I am the law!" captures his unflinching authority. While there's undeniable power in the character's image, the lyrics also subtly hint at the dangers of unchecked authority and the erosion of individual freedom.

The B-Sides: Anthrax's Quirky Humor

Anthrax's "I Am the Law" 12" single often included quirky and humorous B-sides that showcased the band's lighter side. Tracks like "I'm The Man" and "Bud E. Luvbomb and Satan's Loungeband" delivered a playful, tongue-in-cheek contrast to the serious tone of the A-side. This demonstrated Anthrax's ability to balance intense thrash with their offbeat sense of humor.

Featured Song: "I Am The Law" Explained

Anthrax's iconic thrash metal anthem, "I Am The Law", delivers a sonic punch directly inspired by the uncompromising comic book character Judge Dredd. The song's relentless tempo and defiant lyrics delve into themes of power, control, and the potential dangers of unchecked authority within a dystopian world.

Judge Dredd: Icon of Dystopian Power

Judge Dredd, a central figure in the *2000 AD* comics, operates in the brutal dystopia of Mega-City One. As judge, jury, and executioner, Dredd wields absolute power over the populace. Anthrax's song latches onto his iconic phrase "I am the law!", embodying the character's unrelenting authority and unquestioned control.

Celebration and Critique

The song's power lies in its dual interpretations. On one hand, "I Am The Law" celebrates Judge Dredd's raw power and uncompromising nature. The blistering guitars and Joey Belladonna's soaring vocals build up an aura of invincibility, fitting for a figure who embodies the law.

However, just below the surface lurks a subtle critique. The dystopian setting in which Dredd operates reminds us that absolute authority can have devastating consequences. The song hints at the slippery slope between order and oppression, raising questions about the fine line between justice and tyranny.

Anthrax's Thrash Metal Edge

Musically, "I Am The Law" is a quintessential Anthrax track. The relentless drumming and razor-sharp guitar riffs create an atmosphere of controlled chaos, perfectly matching the Judge Dredd concept. While the song tackles a serious theme, Anthrax's signature sense of humor subtly peeks through, reminding listeners of the band's playful, rebellious nature.

I Am The Law Live:

Collector's info: :

"I am the Law" Album artwork by Charlie Benante

Music Genre:

Thrash Metal Music

Album Production Information:

Producers Jon Zazula, Eddie Kramer, Anthrax.

Jon Zazula, also known as Jonny Z, revolutionized heavy metal by founding Megaforce Records, the label that launched Metallica, Anthrax, and Testament. A former record store owner turned music mogul, his fearless vision helped shape the thrash metal movement of the 1980s. His legacy continues to influence metal worldwide. Learn more about Jon Zazula.

Eddie Kramer is a legendary music producer & sound engineer known for shaping the sound of rock icons like Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, and Kiss. Born in South Africa, his innovative recording techniques revolutionized studio production. From Electric Lady Studios to Woodstock, his impact spans decades. Learn more about his career & contributions in his biography.

Sound/recording engineers: Eddie Kramer, Chris Rutherford, Chip Schane, Paul Hammingson.

George Marino (1947-2012) - Mastering Engineer

George Marino was a legendary mastering engineer whose expertise shaped the sound of countless iconic albums. Born in 1947, he honed his craft at Capitol Records before joining Sterling Sound in 1973. His mastering work on albums by AC/DC, Metallica, and Guns N' Roses defined rock and metal's sonic power. His legacy endures through his meticulous audio craftsmanship. Learn more

Record Label & Catalognr:

Island Records 12 IS 316

Media Format:

12" Maxi Single

Year & Country 1986 Made in Germany

Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: ANTHRAX - I Am The Law

Joey Belladonna - Vocals, Drums
is an American Singer from Oswego, New York and best known as lead singer in the American ( East-Coast ) Thrash Metal band Anthrax. Belladonna has been with Anthrax since 1984 with several long breaks in-between.
Charlie Benante - Drums, Artwork
Charlie Benante ( Drums ) long-time drummer with the American Thrash Metal band Anthrax, since 1983 and also performed in S.O.D. Stormtroopers Of Death.
Dan Spitz - Guitars
Dan Spitz ( full-name: Daniel Alan Spitz ) is an American musician and Heavy Metal watch-maker. Spitz started his musical career in 1981 as guitarist in the American Thrash Metal band Overkill. He left Overkill in 1983 to join Anthrax as lead guitarist. Spitz performed in Anthrax mainly from 1983 until 1995. After 1995 he started to developed himself into mechanical watchmaker and has won several awards for this.
Frank Bello - Bass
Frank Bello ( Full-name: Francis Charles Joseph Bello ) is from the Bronx, New York and has been bass guitarist with the American Thrash Metal band Anthrax since 1984.
Scott Ian - Guitars

Scott Ian ( full-name Scott Ian Rosenfeld ) is an American guitarist and founding member of "Anthrax" and "Stormtroopers of Death". His wife "Pearl Aday" is daughter of the singer "Meat Loaf". In his musical career he has performed with the bands: Anthrax (USA) , Damnocracy, Doom Squad, Four-X, Motor Sister, Pearl, Posehn, S.O.D. STORMTROOPERS OF DEATH (USA) , Slam Jam, The Damned Things.

Complete Track Listing of: Anthrax I Am The Law

I Am The Law

I Am The Man
Bud E. Luvbomb and Satan's Loungeband (Death Metal Thing, Not, Rock and Roll, Mr Browne Style)

Album Cover Photo Gallery of: Anthrax I Am The Law

High Resolution Photo #1 Anthrax I Am The Law — The Artwork: It features a close-up illustration of Judge Dredd, his helmet visor gleaming, with the iconic scowl on his face. The background often has a gritty, urban feel, sometimes including scenes of violence or rebellion.

High Resolution Photo #2 Anthrax I Am The Law

High Resolution Photo #3 Anthrax I Am The Law

Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )