RIFF063 - Anthrax - Persistence of Time
S2025:E32

RIFF063 - Anthrax - Persistence of Time

•

Episode description

Anthrax get serious. We dig into Persistence of Time (1990)—the darker, tighter, grown-up pivot where Joey Belladonna’s vocals cut through a heavier mix, the grooves slow just enough to hit harder, and the Joe Jackson cover somehow makes perfect sense. Along the way: a supply-chain crisis (Coke Zero + red/black Fruit Pastilles), a self-own “burglary” story involving several PDAs, and the glorious chaos of Married… with Children: My Dinner with Anthrax. Serious album; unserious hosts. It works.

Timestamps

  • 00:00:54 — Snack panic: Coke Zero, red/black Fruit Pastilles, and a closed forecourt.
  • 00:04:15 — Why Persistence of Time lands: darker tone, grown-up Anthrax.
  • 00:12:39 — Production chat & why Joey’s vocals shine here.
  • 00:17:57 — Singles: “In My World,” “Got the Time” (yes, Joe Jackson).
  • 00:20:56 — Recording: A&M & Conway Studios (Hollywood).
  • 00:21:16 — Mixed by Steve Thompson & Michael Barbiero (Electric Lady); mastered by Bob Ludwig.
  • 00:22:01 — “Time”: ticking intro, Scott Ian’s right-hand clinic.
  • 00:25:51 — “Keep It in the Family,” “Gridlock”: dynamics without the flab.
  • 00:31:15 — What “persistence of time” means: Charlie vs. Scott (two answers, both right).
  • 00:33:30 — Local lore: the Barry Milner Bridge (we accidentally name a band).
  • 00:36:27 — The PDA saga: “Did you have anything stolen?” “…no… actually… yes.”
  • 01:04:15 — Married… with Children: My Dinner with Anthrax (bonkers, not very PC).
  • 01:07:17 — “Belly of the Beast” appreciation (because of course).
  • 01:11:19 — Frank Bello’s hair, band charm, tidy landing.

Credits (from the episode)

Produced by Mark Dodson. Recorded at A&M Studios and Conway Studios (Dec ’89–Feb ’90). Mixed by Steve Thompson & Michael Barbiero at Electric Lady. Mastered by Bob Ludwig. Runtime: 58:40. Singles: “In My World,” “Got the Time.”

Listen & follow

If you enjoy the show, the nicest free thing you can do: rate and review on Apple/Spotify, and share the episode with a friend who still insists Among the Living is the only answer.