For true Anthrax nerds only!!!!
Lisa Acevedo | 11/11/2009
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Classic album, but...
Have to say that the remastered sound is fantastic. But the video quality on the DVD shows that absolutely very little effort was put into improving the original home video look. Quite honestly, it looks like a mid generation VHS dub. Very grainy. I understand the original VHS was full of grain, but with what can be done now with video remastering, it could look much better!
Also, the booklet is a bit skimpy. It has a nice bit written by band friend Brian Poesehn, lyrics, original release credits and some unseen photos. But previous deluxe edition releases had a well written informative essay that focused on the recording of the album, singles affiliated with the release and well as other informational nuggets. This release is sorely missing any of that making it seem kind of thrown together. There was so much potential in making this an ultimate release, but the opportunity seems to have been partially squandered.
Instead of the DVD, perhaps a 2nd CD of demos, more alternate takes and the remaining songs from the sessions like "Sabbath, Bloody, Sabbath", "I'm the Man" (vocal version) and "Taint" would have been better. Why not include the "I'm The Man" ep, the one live Dallas track is an awkward stand out without the rest of the released songs accompanying it.
So for 30 bucks is it worth it? The bonus alternate tracks are really cool and I am happy to support the band by buying another copy of an album I already have. But unless you're a total Anthrax nerd it is probably best to stick with the original, less expensive release. The video quality of the DVD is inexcusable though for that price. I hope that if there are further Deluxe Edition Anthrax releases in the future, more thought and effort is put into them to ensure that the fan is getting a truly unique and comprehensive release."
If you are a collector this is a must have! (If you can find
Brian Woody | Columbus, Ohio USA | 03/15/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Luckily, I got this from the Amazon Marketplace cheaper then most stores and online vendors are selling it. I did not want to pay $27.99 for the reissue because I aready had the DVD. If you can find it for less I'd definately take it! The packaging is decent. I've seen better but it is cool and I always like digi packs. The bonus tracks are not great but as a completest I had to have them for my collection. The DVD is at least in 5.1 surround sound. Which is better then my original import copy of the DVD.
So, if you are a new fan and are not a collector or completest like msyself. I'd just get the regular version and enjoy the album for which is it amazing! If you are a collector. I'd suggest getting this reissue. Maybe you can ask for it for a gift for your birthday or Christmas. So, you don't have to spend the money again. Or use a gift card etc... You'll enjoy it. I did and I felt it was worth the money I paid for it.
Great album and I'm glad they reissued it. The remastering definately helped. I enjoy the new mix!"
Track Listings (15) - Disc #1