2019 has been one of the biggest years in heavy music in recent memory, with major players such as Tool, Slipknot and Rammstein dropping long-awaited new albums, while trailblazing up-and-comers pushed boundaries in their own right. Thrash veterans Anthrax may not have dropped any new material over the last 12 months, but they have been hard at work on their next album, the follow-up to 2016's For All Kings. With that in mind, we asked drummer Charlie Benante to share some of his favorite music, TV shows and movies from the past year — below is what he offered up. "Here's to 2020," he added, "and the greatest Anthrax record!"
The Raconteurs - Help Us Stranger
I was waiting for this one and I wasn't disappointed.
Tool - Fear Inoculum
I love the track "7empest" — it's Tool at their most Tool-ish.
The Beatles - Abbey Road Deluxe
This is one of my favorite records by the great ones. This was their last and it shows in the lyrics. While some were singing about sunshine and octopuses, Paul's singing about how one sweet dream is ending. It's in his voice when he sings, "Soon we'll be away from here/Step on the gas and wipe that tear away." It is the end of the Beatles.
Star Wars: The Mandalorian
Probably my favorite Star Wars–related project since Rogue One. I love the feel, the look and the story of this show.
Game of Thrones
Loved this show and I wish the last season was longer and Daenerys didn't die.
Dolemite Is My Name
Eddie Murphy is so good as Rudy Ray Moore, I almost forgot it was him.
One Cut of the Dead
A fun zombie movie with a twist.
It Chapter Two
I'm a sucker for Pennywise and Stephen King.
