"Live: The Island Years" is the first full-length live album by American heavy metal band Anthrax. Released in 1994, the album includes several tracks from a 1991 performance at Hammersmith Odeon in London, as well as a few songs from their 1985 and 1987 performances at Donington Park. However, the tracklist isn't representative of a single setlist from either of these shows, as it pulls different songs from these various performances separately.
The album's release was heavily influenced by Island Records, the band's label at the time, as they wanted to capitalize on the thriving Anthrax fanbase. Even though they were focused on their studio work, Anthrax took a break to tour the UK, whose shows proved to be immensely energetic and intense, leading them to be captured on this live release.
The album is unique because Joey Belladonna is on vocals, marking one of his last appearances with the band before John Bush joined them. Belladonna's high-energy performance on this album is considered by many fans as one of the highlights of his tenure with Anthrax. The tracklist comprises a mix of famous Anthrax numbers like "Caught in a Mosh", "I Am the Law", and "Indians", plus some rarities like "Keep It in the Family" and "In My World".
"Live: The Island Years" received mixed reviews from critics, some praising Belladonna's performance and the live energy of the band, while others felt it lacked the intensity of their studio albums. Despite the critical disagreement, the album remains an important snapshot of Anthrax's live prowess and a document of a pivotal era in the band's history.
