SLAYER is an American Thrash Metal band formed by Tom Araya, Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman, in 1981 Huntington Park California. Detailed information incl collector's information, production information, and photos of the album covers can be viewed by selecting the records below individually.
The Band Members
The original lineup consisted of Tom Araya on vocals and bass, Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman on guitars, and Dave Lombardo on drums. Lombardo left the band several times throughout their career, with Paul Bostaph and Jon Dette filling in on drums for various periods. Gary Holt of Exodus also filled in for Hanneman after his death in 2013.
The Music
Slayer's music is often characterized by fast, aggressive riffs, double bass drumming, and Araya's distinctive vocal style. The band has released twelve studio albums, with their most successful being "Reign in Blood" (1986), which is widely regarded as one of the greatest thrash metal albums of all time. Other notable albums include "South of Heaven" (1988), "Seasons in the Abyss" (1990), and "God Hates Us All" (2001).
Slayer has often courted controversy throughout their career due to their use of violent and graphic imagery, as well as their exploration of taboo subjects. The band has been accused of promoting Satanism and encouraging violence, leading to protests and calls for boycotts. In particular, their 1985 album "Hell Awaits" was the subject of much controversy due to its Satanic themes and cover art, which depicted a Hellish landscape with demonic creatures.
The Legacy
Despite the controversy, Slayer's influence on the metal genre cannot be denied. The band has been credited with helping to create and popularize thrash metal, alongside bands like Metallica and Megadeth. Their music has influenced countless metal bands that have followed in their wake, with their aggressive riffs and fast-paced drumming becoming hallmarks of the thrash metal sound. The band's high-energy live performances have also become legendary, with fans often describing them as some of the most intense and memorable shows they have ever seen.
The End of an Era
In 2018, Slayer announced that they would be embarking on a final world tour, bringing an end to their legendary career. The tour, dubbed "The Final Campaign", was intended to give fans a chance to see the band one last time before they called it quits. The tour concluded in November 2019 with a final show in Los Angeles, marking the end of an era for thrash metal fans worldwide.
The Conclusion
Slayer's impact on the metal genre is immeasurable. The band's aggressive music and controversial themes have made them a lightning rod for criticism and debate, but their influence on the thrash metal sound is undeniable. With their final tour now completed, Slayer has left an indelible mark on the world of heavy metal, and their legacy will continue to inspire and influence metal fans for generations to come.
"Black Serenade" is not an official Slayer album. Released in Germany, it compiles various bonus tracks and B-sides, likely sourced from singles and EPs. While the vinyl itself might be a collector's item
Black Serenade 12" Vinyl LP
Slayer’s Christ Illusion (2006) marked the return of drummer Dave Lombardo and showcased the band’s aggressive thrash sound. Featuring Grammy-winning tracks ‘Eyes of the Insane’ and ‘Final Six,’ the album’s controversial Larry Carroll artwork and themes of war and religion cement it as a standout in Slayer’s legendary discography.
Christ Illusion 12" Vinyl LP
One of the standout features on "Diabolus in Musica" is the songwriting contributions of guitarist Jeff Hanneman. Known for his powerful riffs and dark lyrical themes, Hanneman's influence is palpable throughout the record.
Diabolus in Musica 12" Vinyl LP
"Eyes of the Insane" is the 2006 single by Slayer, taken from their 2006 album Christ Illusion. The lyrics explore an American soldier's mental anguish following his return home from the second Gulf War
Eyes of the insane (Red Vinyl) 7" Vinyl Single
The album opens with the track "Darkness of Christ," which features a sample from a speech by actress Gina Gershon in the film "Bound." This sample sets the stage for the rest of the album, as it is a chilling and ominous
God Hates Us All 12" Vinyl LP
Slayer's 1984 EP "Haunting the Chapel" showcased their evolving thrash metal sound. Despite sharing the same haunting cover as the US release, the Canadian Banzai 12" Vinyl LP edition holds collector's appeal
SLAYER - Haunting the Chapel (1984, Canada) SLAYER - Haunting the Chapel (1984, USA)
Released in 1985, "Hell Awaits" was the sophomore album from Slayer, following their debut opus, "Show No Mercy." It marked a significant evolution in their sound, as they delved deeper into the dark and macabre territories
Hell Awaits 12" Vinyl LP
Slayer's "Live in Montreux - 2002" captures their fiery 2002 performance at the Swiss Jazz Festival. This double LP unleashes thrash anthems like "Raining Blood" and "Angel of Death" on hot wax,
Live in Montreux 2002 12" Vinyl 2LP
This reissue includes the bone-crushing bonus track "Chemical Warfare," a studio scorcher that complements the raw energy of the live recordings.
SLAYER - Live Undead ( Record Label with Blood Dripping AXE ) SLAYER - Live Undead (Record Label with Red Guitar)
Calling all thrash maniacs and Slayer disciples! A sonic assault from the band's early days is back for a limited pressing on stunning blue vinyl. "Live Undead / Haunting the Chapel" combines the raw energy of Slayer's
Live Undead / Haunting the Chapel Ltd Ed Blue 12" Vinyl LP
Slayer’s Reign in Blood (1986) is a thrash metal masterpiece renowned for its relentless speed and aggression. Featuring iconic tracks like ‘Angel of Death’ and ‘Raining Blood,’ the album set a new standard for the genre. Its dark themes and technical brilliance earned critical acclaim, making it a landmark release in heavy metal history and a pivotal influence on countless bands.
Reign in Blood 12" Vinyl LP
This album Seasons in the Abyss is the fifth studio album by American thrash metal band Slayer. It was released on 9 October 1990, through Def American Records, and later through American Recordings
Seasons in the Abyss 12" Vinyl LP
"Show No Mercy" Three different versions of coloured vinyl, originally released in December 1983. Brian Slagel signed the band to Metal Blade after watching the band perform the song "Phantom of the Opera" by Iron Maiden.
SLAYER - Show No Mercy (Black Vinyl, Netherlands) SLAYER - Show No Mercy (Grey Vinyl, UK SLAYER - Show No Mercy (White Vinyl, UK)
Slayer’s South of Heaven (1988) marks a turning point in their discography, introducing a slower, more atmospheric approach while retaining their trademark aggression. The album showcases tracks like ‘Mandatory Suicide’ and the title track, which became live staples. This release pushed the boundaries of thrash metal, cementing Slayer’s reputation as one of the genre’s most innovative and influential bands.
South of Heaven 12" Vinyl LP