The Promise – Sturgill Simpson
It’s rare that I like a cover version more than the original. But maybe not so rare when I don’t like the original anyway, as is the case with The Promise. Sturgill Simpson owns this When in Rome song. The heartbreak in his voice is palpable and it gets me every time. Beautiful.
The Devil Named Music – Chris Stapleton
I’m sticking with the country theme. It’s difficult to pick one song from Stapleton’s brilliant Traveller album, so I picked the one that tells the story of my life.
The Phoenix – Fall Out Boy
I am a sucker for a good hook, and this is a pure pop gem with a furious urgency. Undeniably catchy and just fucking good.
Cowboy Song – Thin Lizzy
Phil Lynott was the Cormac McCarthy of hard rock. I have no idea what that means but it feels right. Listen to this song and read Blood Meridian.
Purgatory – Iron Maiden
I have been a fan of Iron Maiden since 1980. I buy their albums, I buy their merchandise and now I get to go on Ed Force One and tour Mexico, Central and South America with them. Dreams do come true. Thank you heavy metal.
• Anthrax’s new album, For All Kings, is out now via Nuclear Blast
