Anthrax in Illinois School

The humble scribe writing this little blog post grew up in the ‘80s, a time when hardcore and metal music wasn’t allowed within 500 yards of a school, lest its dark and Satanic influence turn us all into a murderous army of brainwashed psychopaths. Now, they invite the drummer from Anthrax to talk to 7th graders.

Yes, folks, that’s Charlie Benante speaking to a music class at Woodlawn Middle School in Lawn Grove, IL. The skins-beater for the legendary thrash band spent some time espousing the benefits of music lessons and talking shop with the kids, whose musical taste has apparently been warped in an awesome way by Guitar Hero - the visit was apparently inspired by Benante’s son, who came home from school talking about learning to play “Smoke on the Water.”

In addition to spending time with the kids, Benante also donated several Ovation guitars to the school’s music program. Sounds like a good time, and a good cause Take that, Tipper Gore!