Anthrax's long-awaited, much-anticipated 2013 covers EP, 'Anthems,' will see a March 19 release date, and to keep the buzz going, a "Viral Video Version" of the band's take on the Rush classic 'Anthem' has made its way onto YouTube.

Posted on the Nuclear Blast Europe YouTube page, fans of Anthrax and Rush can check the song out and decide for themselves if the legendary thrash act did the Rush song justice. Along with Anthrax's cover of 'Anthem,' the band covers Thin Lizzy's 'Jailbreak,' AC/DC's 'TNT,' Cheap Trick's 'Big Eyes,' Boston's 'Smokin'' and Journey's 'Keep on Runnin' in the upcoming EP.

"These are all bands I grew up with and have listened to forever," gushes Anthrax vocalist Joey Belladonna. "It's just great music. I had fun singing these songs and I was happy recording together with Anthrax, doing classic rock songs. Fun stuff!" Anthrax drummer Charlie Benante also shared his passion for the chosen covers, particularly the Boston classic 'Smokin'.' "If ever there were a perfect first album, it's Boston's first album," says Benante. "The harmony leads they did would later be heard by Iron Maiden, which of course would lead to thrash metal."

In other Anthrax news, guitarist Scott Ian's solo 'Speaking Words' tour has acquired an additional guest for its Australian dates. Fozzy frontman and WWE wrestler Chris Jericho will host the Scott Ian events scheduled for Feb. 26 in Sydney and Feb. 27 in Melbourne. Ian is taking the tour through Europe beginning in May, as well. Check out a preview in the second video below.

Check out the "Viral Video Version" Rush's 'Anthem' covered by Anthrax in the video player below.

Anthrax, 'Anthem' (Rush Cover)

Scott Ian Previews 'Speaking Words' Tour

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