The Time Anthrax Played An Intimate Club Show Under A Secret Name

March 21, 2025

It was a chilly night in late October 1998 when a group of loyal Anthrax fans gathered outside a small, dimly lit club in New York City. They had heard whispers of a secret show by their favorite band, but little did they know, the band was performing under a mysterious pseudonym: “The X-Men.” As the line grew longer, excitement bubbled among the crowd. For many of these fans, this was not just a random concert; it was a chance to witness their heroes in a rare, personal setting.

Inside the club, the atmosphere was electric. It was a stark contrast to the larger arenas where Anthrax usually played. The room was intimate, with only a few hundred die-hard fans crammed together, eager to make memories that would last a lifetime. As the lights dimmed, the air thickened with anticipation. Suddenly, the unmistakable sound of electric guitars pierced through the darkness, and the crowd erupted in cheers. Anthrax had taken the stage, and they were here to unleash their energy like never before.

As lead singer Joey Belladonna sang the first notes of “Caught in a Mosh,” the audience seemed to transform into a wild sea of headbanging fans. The small venue allowed for an incredible connection between the band and the crowd. Joey’s powerful voice echoed through the room, and the band members could feel the raw energy of their supporters surrounding them. They played song after song, mixing classics with new material, and the room shook with the passion of loyal fans singing along. This show was different; it was like a family reunion where every member was excited to be together.

As the final chords of the last song faded away, the band members were overwhelmed with gratitude. They saw the faces of their fans, some with tears of joy in their eyes, and others who were lost in the music, completely transformed by the experience. For Anthrax, this intimate performance was not just a gig; it was a reminder of why they loved music. It wasn’t merely about the fame or the big stages; it was about connecting with people, sharing a moment that would resonate long after the last note was played.

In the following weeks, the buzz around The X-MEN show ignited a new wave of enthusiasm for Anthrax. They realized that sometimes stepping away from the limelight and interacting directly with their core fans was what they needed. That night became a benchmark in their career, a testament to their resilience and passion. It lit a fire within them to explore more intimate performances in the future, strengthening their bond with loyal fans and reminding them why they started making music in the first place.

Years later, as Anthrax continued to thrive in their career, they would often look back at that secret show. It was a pivotal moment that taught them the power of music and connection. They had faced many challenges, but that night in the small club was a beacon of hope. It served as a reminder that no matter how big they got, it was the love from their fans that truly fueled their journey through the highs and lows of the music industry.