Album Information Section

Album Title: Anthology of Anvil

Artist: Anvil

Original Release Date: November 21, 2000

Label: Metal Blade Records

Genres: Heavy Metal, Speed Metal

Track Listing:

• 1. Metal on Metal (3:57)
• 2. Smokin’ Green (4:56)
• 3. Winged Assassins (3:45)
• 4. Free as the Wind (5:37)
• 5. Old School (3:47)
• 6. Bushpig (4:04)
• 7. Blood on the Ice (5:25)
• 8. March of the Crabs (2:32)
• 9. Jackhammer (3:32)
• 10. Speed of Sound (3:45)
• 11. 666 (4:47)
• 12. Stolen (4:37)
• 13. Paper General (4:47)
• 14. Forged in Fire (live) (5:20)
• 15. School Love (3:16)
• 16. Motormount (3:40)
• 17. Dr. Kevorkian (3:47)
• 18. Mothra (5:06)

Recording Information

“Anthology of Anvil” was recorded at the legendary Phase One Studios in Toronto, Canada, a site known for its excellent acoustics and rich history in the music industry. The recording sessions took place primarily in 2000, coinciding with the album’s release date. The production was overseen by Anvil’s long-time collaborator, Chris Tsangarides, who had previously worked with the band on earlier albums, bringing his expertise in heavy metal production to the forefront of this project.

Tsangarides is noted for his use of analog recording techniques, which helped to capture the raw energy and authenticity of Anvil’s sound. The band utilized vintage equipment, including classic amplifiers and microphones, to achieve a distinct tone that is both aggressive and melodic. An interesting production note is that the band aimed to capture the live energy of their performances, which they felt was essential in conveying their music’s essence.

Band Context

By the time “Anthology of Anvil” was released, Anvil was already an established name in the heavy metal scene, having formed in 1978. The band, consisting of vocalist and guitarist Lips (Ian Dickson), drummer Robb Reiner, and bassist Dave Allison, had experienced a tumultuous career filled with ups and downs. Despite being pioneers of the speed metal genre, they struggled with mainstream recognition throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

Leading up to the release of this anthology, Anvil had been working to regain their footing in the music industry. The late 1990s were particularly challenging, but the band remained dedicated to their craft, touring extensively and working on new music. “Anthology of Anvil” was intended to celebrate their legacy, compiling their most notable tracks along with a few new entries and live recordings that showcased their enduring spirit and commitment to heavy metal.

Track Commentary

The album opens with the iconic “Metal on Metal,” a track that has become synonymous with Anvil’s identity. This song exemplifies their heavy metal roots with fast-paced riffs and powerful vocals, setting the tone for the rest of the album. “Smokin’ Green” follows, showcasing a slightly more laid-back groove while still retaining the band’s signature sound.

Tracks like “Winged Assassins” and “Blood on the Ice” delve into themes of battle and survival, encapsulating the lyrical style that Anvil is known for. The anthemic “Free as the Wind” serves as a poignant reminder of the band’s ethos of freedom and rebellion, making it a standout track that resonates deeply with fans.

Another highlight is the live recording of “Forged in Fire,” which captures the raw energy of Anvil’s live performances. This track, alongside “March of the Crabs,” which features a memorable instrumental section, reflects the band’s ability to blend technical musicianship with engaging songwriting. Other notable tracks include “666,” which has garnered attention for its catchy hooks and thematic elements of darkness, and “Dr. Kevorkian,” which adds a layer of humor to the album’s overall tone.

Overall, “Anthology of Anvil” serves as a comprehensive overview of the band’s career up to that point. It received a positive reception from critics, who praised its mix of classic tracks and new material, calling it an essential listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to Anvil’s music. The album solidified their place in heavy metal history, demonstrating that Anvil’s influence and legacy would endure well beyond its release.