Anthrax, formed in 1981 by rhythm guitarist Scott Ian and bassist Dan Lilker, is an American heavy metal band from New York City. The group is considered one of the pioneers of the 1980s thrash metal scene and is, along with Metallica, Megadeth and Slayer, part of the “Big Four” of the genre. They were also one of the first thrash metal bands to emerge from the East Coast (along with Overkill and Nuclear Assault). 11 studio albums, numerous other albums, and 26 singles have been released by the band. ¹⁾