Slayer

Slayer 1983 press photo

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14-06-08 RiP Slayer Kerry King 1

14-06-08 RiP Slayer Tom Araya 2

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Bostaph

Dave Lombardo

Slayer is an American thrash metal band formed in Huntington Park, California, in 1981 by guitarists Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman. Slayer's fast and aggressive musical style made them one of the "big four" bands of thrash metal, alongside Metallica, Megadeth, and Anthrax. The band's lyrics and album art, which cover topics such as murder, serial killers, torture, genocide, politics, religion, and warfare, have generated album bans, delays, lawsuits, and criticism from religious groups and the public.

History

Early years and rise to fame (1981–1986)

Slayer was formed in 1981 when guitarists Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman decided to start a band, recruiting drummer Dave Lombardo and bassist/vocalist Tom Araya to complete the lineup. The band started by playing covers of Iron Maiden and Judas Priest songs at parties and clubs in Southern California. They recorded their debut album, Show No Mercy, in 1983, which was financed by King's father. The album gained attention in the underground metal community and led to a tour across the United States.

Reign in Blood and mainstream success (1986–1994)

Slayer's third album, Reign in Blood (1986), is considered a landmark in the thrash metal genre. Produced by Rick Rubin, the album was Slayer's first release on Rubin's Def American label (later renamed to American Recordings) and became one of the most influential heavy metal albums of all time. Its graphic lyrical content and aggressive playing style solidified Slayer's position in the metal world.

Following Reign in Blood, Slayer released several albums that maintained or increased their popularity, including South of Heaven (1988) and Seasons in the Abyss (1990). These albums saw the band experimenting with slower tempos and more complex song structures without sacrificing the intensity and aggression that had become their hallmark.

Later years and final album (1995–2019)

Slayer continued to release albums and tour extensively through the 1990s and 2000s. Despite lineup changes, including the departure and later return of drummer Dave Lombardo and the death of guitarist Jeff Hanneman in 2013, the band maintained its status as one of the leading acts in heavy metal. Slayer announced in 2018 that they would embark on a final world tour, which concluded in November 2019, marking the end of the band's career.

Musical style and influences

Slayer's music is characterized by its fast tempos, shredding guitar solos, and complex guitar riffs, combined with shouting vocals. The band's sound was heavily influenced by early heavy metal and hard rock bands, as well as British bands like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest. However, Slayer's approach was far more aggressive and fast-paced, drawing inspiration from hardcore punk bands as well.

Legacy

Slayer is considered one of the most influential bands in heavy metal history. Their aggressive musical style and controversial lyrics paved the way for countless metal bands. The band's influence extends beyond metal, impacting various music genres and cultures. Slayer's contribution to the thrash metal genre is particularly significant, with Reign in Blood often cited as one of the greatest metal albums of all time.

Discography

• Show No Mercy (1983)
• Hell Awaits (1985)
• Reign in Blood (1986)
• South of Heaven (1988)
• Seasons in the Abyss (1990)
• Divine Intervention (1994)
• Diabolus in Musica (1998)
• God Hates Us All (2001)
• Christ Illusion (2006)
• World Painted Blood (2009)
• Repentless (2015)

Members

• Tom Araya – bass, vocals
• Kerry King – guitars
• Jeff Hanneman – guitars (1981–2013)
• Dave Lombardo – drums (1981–1986, 1987–1992, 2001–2013)
• Paul Bostaph – drums (1992–2001, 2013–2019)
• Gary Holt – guitars (2011–2019)

See also

• List of thrash metal bands
• Big Four of thrash metal