John Bush will be back at Bangers Open Air in 2027, this time in a solo capacity, after having previously performed at the festival with Armored Saint. In this new chapter of his career, the American vocalist takes to the stage with a setlist dedicated to his time with Anthrax: "Celebrating the Songs of Anthrax 1993-2003."
Born in Los Angeles in 1963, Bush began his career at a young age and became one of the most recognizable voices in American heavy metal. In 1982, he co-founded Armored Saint, building a catalog defined by classic albums such as "March of the Saint," "Delirious Nomad," "Raising Fear," and "Symbol of Salvation." In the early 1980s, he was even invited by James Hetfield to join Metallica as lead vocalist, but declined the offer to remain with his bandmates in Armored Saint.
Following Armored Saint's hiatus in the early 1990s, Bush accepted an invitation from Scott Ian to front Anthrax, replacing Joey Belladonna. The lineup change marked a new era for the band, introducing a deeper, grittier vocal style characteristic of Bush's voice. Between 1992 and 2005, he recorded four studio albums with Anthrax: "Sound of White Noise," "Stomp 442," "Volume 8: The Threat Is Real," and "We've Come for You All," in addition to recording "The Greater of Two Evils." This era also featured extensive international tours, including stops in Brazil. Bush briefly rejoined Anthrax between 2009 and 2010 for select live dates while Armored Saint was reactivated.
Alongside his music career, Bush has worked as a voice actor for television commercials, video games, and other voiceover projects, while remaining active with Armored Saint. He has also taken part in special events, including guest appearances with Metallica, and in recent years joined the supergroup Category 7. In 2026, he continues to front Armored Saint, sustaining a career spanning over four decades in heavy metal.
The "Celebrating the Songs of Anthrax 1993-2003" project came about after years of fan requests, gathering material from the four studio albums he recorded with the band into a setlist that combines classics and lesser-played deep cuts. Following performances in the United States, the project expands to international stages for 2027. At Bangers Open Air, Bush will reunite with the Brazilian crowd to showcase one of the most defining eras of Anthrax.