Anthrax - I Am The Law Thrash Metal 12" Vinyl Single

  "I Am The Law" is a single by the American Thrash Metal band "Anthrax". It has been released as a 12" Maxi-Single. "I Am The Law" has been released with different artwork (two versions) on the record's sleeve. This web-page has hi-res photos of the album covers, record label and a detailed description.

 

Large photo of I'm the Law front cover

"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 – Megaforce Records founder & metal scene catalyst

    The “Jonny Z” era starts in the East Brunswick trenches (early ’80s), then detonates with Metallica in 1982–1983 and keeps rolling through Megaforce years with bands like Anthrax (notably 1985–1991), Overkill, Testament, and Manowar.

    Jon Zazula, in my head, is proof that heavy metal didn’t just “happen” in the ’80s—it got built by obsessive weirdos with good ears and zero chill. He ran the Rock ’n’ Roll Heaven record store in East Brunswick, New Jersey, and used that shop as a kind of underground command center, blasting demos through the tape-trading network until the right bands found the right people. The pivotal moment (and yeah, it’s basically metal folklore at this point) lands in the winter of 1982, when he heard Metallica’s “No Life ’Til Leather” demo, pulled them to New York, and helped push them onto their first real East Coast stages—then Megaforce Records followed, and “Kill ’Em All” hit in 1983 like a crowbar to the radio. After that, his “periods” with bands were less about being onstage and more about being the guy who opened doors: the Megaforce run expanded from Metallica and Manowar in the early ’80s to a wider roster that included Anthrax (a key 1985–1991 stretch), plus acts like Overkill and Testament—basically a roll call of bands that helped define what American metal would sound like when it stopped asking permission.

  • Edwin H. “Eddie” Kramer – Producer, Audio Engineer

    The guy who could take Hendrix saying “make it sound green” and somehow turn that into real audio.

    Edwin H. “Eddie” Kramer, in my book, is rock’s ultimate behind-the-glass magician: starting in London studios in the early 1960s, then going full-throttle with Jimi Hendrix from 1967–1970, capturing Woodstock (1969), engineering major Led Zeppelin work from 1969 onward, steering Electric Lady Studios as engineering director in 1970–1974, and later locking in that arena punch with Kiss through the mid/late 1970s (and beyond). When I see his credit, I expect big guitars, bigger atmosphere, and a mix that still feels alive.

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

    George Marino (1947-2012) - Mastering Engineer

  • George Marino – Mastering Engineer

    When my site brain goes full 1980s metal mode, his name keeps showing up like a hidden signature in the dead wax.

    George Marino is one of those behind-the-glass legends who made heavy music feel larger than the room it was playing in. Before the mastering console became his throne, he was a Bronx guitarist doing the NYC band grind in the 1960s with groups like The Chancellors and The New Sounds Ltd. Then he went pro for real: starting at Capitol Studios in New York (1967), and eventually becoming a long-running force at Sterling Sound (from 1973 onward). For a collector like me—living in that sweet spot where 1980s heavy metal, hard rock, and a dash of prog-minded ambition collide—Marino’s credits read like a stack of essential sleeves: Holy Diver (Dio), Tooth and Nail (Dokken), Stay Hard (Raven), Master of Puppets (Metallica), Somewhere in Time (Iron Maiden), Among the Living (Anthrax), Appetite for Destruction (Guns N’ Roses), Slippery When Wet (Bon Jovi), and Blow Up Your Video (AC/DC). That’s the kind of resume that doesn’t just “master” records—it weaponizes them, but with taste. George Marino Wiki

  • 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
      Band-members, Musicians and Performers
    • 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 – Rhythm guitarist, lyricist & thrash metal co-founder

      Scott Ian (born Scott Ian Rosenfeld) is the riff-engine who’s been steering Anthrax since 1981, with side-quests that hit like bonus levels: S.O.D. (1985–1991; reunions in 1999 and 2007), The Damned Things (2009–2012; 2019–present), Motor Sister (2014–present), and Mr. Bungle (around 2020–present).

      Scott Ian, I’ve always thought of him as the human proof that rhythm guitar can be the main character. He’s best known as the co-founder, rhythm guitarist, and primary lyricist of Anthrax (1981–present), and he’s the only member who’s been there for the whole ride while the rest of the lineup history does its usual metal soap-opera thing. Outside Anthrax, his “periods” with other bands map out a whole corner of crossover and hard rock: he co-founded Stormtroopers of Death (S.O.D.) for the original run in 1985–1991, then popped back in for reunion eras in 1999 and 2007; he shifted into supergroup mode with The Damned Things (2009–2012, then back again from 2019 to the present); he formed Motor Sister in 2014 and kept it rolling; and he became part of the revived Mr. Bungle lineup around 2020. The vibe I get is simple: Ian doesn’t just play riffs—he builds lanes for other people to drive dangerously fast through.

    Complete Track Listing of: Anthrax I Am The Law
      Side One:
    • I Am The Law
      Side Two:
    • I Am The Man
    • Bud E. Luvbomb and Satan's Loungeband (Death Metal Thing, Not, Rock and Roll, Mr Browne Style)

    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 )

    Index of ANTHRAX Band - Vinyl Album Gallery & Discography

    ANTHRAX - Among the Living (Canadian & German Releases) 12" Vinyl LP
    ANTHRAX - Among the Living (Canadian & German Releases)  album front cover vinyl record

    Anthrax's thrash metal landmark "Among the Living" gets the classic vinyl treatment. Explore the Canadian & German 12" LP releases, featuring iconic tracks like the title track, "Caught in a Mosh," and "I Am the Law."

    - Among the Living ( Canada ) - Among the Living ( Germany )
    ANTHRAX - Armed and Dangerous 12" Vinyl LP
    ANTHRAX - Armed and Dangerous album front cover vinyl record

    Anthrax's "Armed and Dangerous" 12" Vinyl LP Album is a classic of the thrash metal genre and an essential addition to any serious metal collector's library. The album's raw energy, aggressive riffs

    Learn more
    ANTHRAX - Chris Tetley Interview Rock Sagas 12" Vinyl Picture Disc
    ANTHRAX - Chris Tetley Interview Rock Sagas album front cover vinyl record

    "Chris Tetley Interview Rock Saga"s 12" Picture Disc is a must-have for any Anthrax fan. The interview provides a rare glimpse into the minds of two of the band's most creative members,

    Learn more
    ANTHRAX - Fistful of Metal 12" Picture Disc
    ANTHRAX - Chris Tetley Interview Rock Sagas album front cover vinyl record

    "Fistful of Metal" is a thrash metal masterpiece that showcases the band's raw energy, speed, and aggression. The album features fast and furious tracks like "Deathrider," "Metal Thrashing Mad,"

    Learn more
    ANTHRAX - I Am The Law 12" Vinyl LP
    ANTHRAX - I Am The Law album front cover vinyl record

    "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

    Learn more
    ANTHRAX - I'm The Man (European & USA Releases) 12" Vinyl LP
    ANTHRAX - I'm The Man (European & USA Releases)  album front cover vinyl record

    The title track, "I'm The Man", became an anthem of self-aggrandizing fun. Borrowing heavily from the hip-hop vernacular, Joey Belladonna rapped and boasted his way through the song over a funky, infectious beat.

    - I'm The Man ( 1987, Europe ) - I'm The Man ( 1987, USA )
    ANTHRAX - Limited Edition Interview Shaped Picture Disc 12" Vinyl LP
    ANTHRAX - Limited Edition Interview Shaped Picture Disc album front cover vinyl record

    The album consisted of interviews with the band members interspersed with excerpts from their live performances. The interviews were conducted by various radio and television hosts, and the band members

    Learn more
    ANTHRAX - Make Me Laugh 12" Picture Disc
    ANTHRAX - Make Me Laugh album front cover vinyl record

    The title track, "Make Me Laugh," is a quirky and surprisingly melodic departure from their usual thrash assault. Borrowing its primary riff from a vintage TV game show theme song, Anthrax infuse it with metal energy.

    Learn more
    ANTHRAX - Penikufesin 12" Vinyl LP
    ANTHRAX - Penikufesin album front cover vinyl record

    The title track "Antisocial" is a cover of the French punk rock band Trust and was one of the highlights of Anthrax's live shows during this period. The French version of the song adds a unique twist to the already intense

    Learn more
    ANTHRAX - Spreading the Disease (Germany & Canada)
    ANTHRAX - Spreading the Disease album front cover vinyl record

    "Spreading the Disease" is a relentless assault of thrash metal brilliance. The album opens with the electrifying "A.I.R," a blistering ode to headbanging and mosh pits. Songs like "Madhouse," "Armed and Dangerous"

    - Spreading the Disease ( 1985, Canada ) - Spreading the Disease ( Germany, EEC )
    ANTHRAX - State of Euphoria (German & USA Releases)  album front cover vinyl record
    ANTHRAX - State of Euphoria (German & USA Releases)

    “State of Euphoria” (1988) captures Anthrax at their most unhinged — fast, funny, and ferociously self-aware. Bursting with East Coast attitude and satirical bite, it’s thrash metal with a grin. From the spiraling madness of its cover art to the anthemic roar of “Antisocial,” the album turns chaos into celebration — a glorious mess only Anthrax could make.

    - State of Euphoria ( 1988, Germany ) - State of Euphoria ( 1988, USA )