Scott Ian: ‘As Far as I’m Concerned, Jon Donais Is the Guitar Player in Anthrax’

After the departure of Rob Caggiano in January, Anthrax were left without a lead guitarist, but the band quickly tapped Shadows Fall axeman Jonathan Donais to fill the void. Now, after a successful trek headlining the 2013 Metal Alliance tour and a bunch of international shows, Anthrax's Scott Ian has publicly stated that Donais is the new full-time shredder for the band.

Shortly after Rob Caggiano left Anthrax, the guitarist became a full-time member of Volbeat while producing that band's 2013 full-length album, 'Outlaw Gentlemen & Shady Ladies.' Donais jumped on board to fill the vacant spot in February, and after over six months in the band, it seems that Donais will be a permanent fixture in Anthrax.

"Jon's been with us since February," guitarist Scott Ian tells Metal Hammer Radio, and I think I can safely say he's passed the audition. [Laughs] I know we haven't said anything official yet, but in my mind, he's the guy. I'm sure some type of official announcement… because in this world, people apparently need that kind of information so they can sleep well at night. But as far as I'm concerned, Jon is the guitar player in Anthrax."

"I grew up on Anthrax, they're the thrash scene, they're one of the 'Big Four,' I'd be crazy to not want to play with them," Donais stated earlier this year. "Initially, Rob called and told me he was leaving the band, and asked if I'd be interested in filling in. Then Scott called me and everything fell into place."

Anthrax are currently finishing up a string of European festival tour dates with drummer Jon Dette filling in for Charlie Benante, who had to undergo carpal tunnel surgery. However, Benante is expected to play with Anthrax on Sept. 13 during the band's opening slot for Iron Maiden in San Bernardino, Calif.