SLAYER is an American Thrash Metal band formed by Tom Araya, Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman, in 1981 Huntington Park California. During the period 1981 until 1990 they have released in total 7 albums as EP or LP
A couple of notes on the band-members (past and present of the Slayer band:
Dave Lombardo (Full-name: David Vincent Lombardo) is widely regarded as one of the greatest drummers in the history of heavy metal music. Known for his lightning-fast double bass drumming, complex rhythms, and innovative playing style, Lombardo has had a profound impact on the genre, influencing countless drummers and bands over the course of his career.
Lombardo was born in Havana, Cuba in 1965, but his family moved to Los Angeles when he was just two years old. He began playing drums at a young age and quickly developed a love for heavy metal music, citing bands like Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and Iron Maiden as early influences. In the early 1980s, Lombardo co-founded the thrash metal band Slayer along with guitarist Kerry King and vocalist/bassist Tom Araya.
With Lombardo on drums, Slayer quickly became one of the most influential and successful bands in the thrash metal scene. Their 1986 album "Reign in Blood" is widely regarded as one of the greatest thrash metal albums of all time, featuring Lombardo's lightning-fast drumming and complex rhythms on tracks like "Angel of Death" and "Raining Blood." Lombardo's playing on "Reign in Blood" set a new standard for thrash metal drumming and helped cement Slayer's place in heavy metal history.
Lombardo's playing continued to evolve over the years, and he became known for his technical skill, complex rhythms, and ability to seamlessly blend different genres of music. In addition to his work with Slayer, Lombardo has played with a wide range of other artists, including Testament, Fantômas, Grip Inc., and Suicidal Tendencies. He has also collaborated with musicians outside of the heavy metal genre, including avant-garde jazz saxophonist John Zorn.
One of Lombardo's most notable collaborations was with guitarist Mike Patton in the experimental supergroup Fantômas. The band's music was a fusion of heavy metal, avant-garde jazz, and noise rock, and Lombardo's playing was a key component of their sound. His ability to seamlessly transition between different time signatures and rhythms was especially evident in Fantômas' music, and his technical proficiency on the drums was a perfect complement to Patton's experimental vocals.
Despite his numerous accomplishments, Lombardo has remained humble and dedicated to his craft throughout his career. He has been praised by fans, fellow musicians, and critics alike for his technical skill, innovation, and contributions to heavy metal music. In recognition of his achievements, Lombardo was inducted into the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame in 2016.
Kerry King (real-name: Kerry Ray King) , born on 3 June 1964, in Los Angeles, California, is a renowned American guitarist best known as one of the founding members and lead guitarists of the influential thrash metal band Slayer. With his aggressive playing style, intricate solos, and dark and intense songwriting, King has left an indelible mark on the world of heavy metal.
From a young age, Kerry King showed a strong passion for music and began playing guitar in his early teens. Influenced by the likes of Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Venom, he gravitated towards the burgeoning thrash metal scene that was gaining momentum in the 1980s.
In 1981, King co-founded Slayer alongside Jeff Hanneman, Tom Araya, and Dave Lombardo. The band's raw energy, fast-paced rhythms, and controversial lyrics set them apart from their contemporaries, and they quickly gained a loyal following. With their debut album, "Show No Mercy" (1983), Slayer established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the metal world.
Throughout Slayer's career, Kerry King played a pivotal role in shaping the band's sound. His aggressive, high-speed riffing, combined with his use of unconventional guitar techniques such as tremolo picking and dissonant chord progressions, became trademarks of the Slayer sound. King's guitar solos, known for their blistering speed and intricate shredding, pushed the boundaries of technicality and set a new standard for metal guitar playing.
Slayer released several critically acclaimed albums, including "Reign in Blood" (1986), "South of Heaven" (1988), "Seasons in the Abyss" (1990), and "God Hates Us All" (2001). These albums solidified Slayer's reputation as one of the "Big Four" thrash metal bands, alongside Metallica, Megadeth, and Anthrax.
King's stage presence and image were as fierce as his playing. Sporting long hair, covered in tattoos, and often seen wearing spiked armbands and leather, he embodied the essence of heavy metal. His commanding presence on stage, along with his aggressive headbanging and lightning-fast guitar solos, made Slayer's live performances legendary.
In addition to his work with Slayer, Kerry King has collaborated with other musicians over the years, including playing guest solos on albums by bands like Pantera and Marilyn Manson. He also released a signature line of guitars through BC Rich, showcasing his unique style and preferences.
In 2019, Slayer embarked on their farewell tour, titled "The Final Campaign," marking the end of the band's illustrious career. The tour concluded in November 2019, leaving a void in the metal world that will not easily be filled.
Kerry King's impact on the world of heavy metal cannot be overstated. His aggressive playing style, innovative songwriting, and uncompromising attitude have inspired countless guitarists and bands. His contributions to Slayer's discography and his influence on the evolution of thrash metal have secured his place in the world of music history.
Jeffrey John Hanneman, known widely as Jeff Hanneman, was born on 31 January 1964, in Oakland, California. He was a renowned musician and founding member of the American Thrash Metal band, Slayer. Hanneman's contributions to the band as a guitarist and songwriter played a crucial role in shaping Slayer's distinct sound and establishing them as one of the most influential bands in the genre.
From an early age, Hanneman showed a deep passion for music. He began playing the guitar as a teenager, heavily influenced by the New Wave of British Heavy Metal and punk rock movements. In 1981, along with Kerry King, Tom Araya, and Dave Lombardo, Hanneman formed Slayer in Huntington Park, California. The band quickly gained recognition for their aggressive style, combining elements of speed, intensity, and dark lyrical themes.
As Slayer's lead and rhythm guitarist, Hanneman played a vital role in defining the band's signature sound. His riffs and solos showcased his technical prowess and creativity, contributing to the band's success in the thrash metal scene. Alongside Kerry King, the duo formed a formidable guitar partnership, creating some of metal's most iconic guitar harmonies and blistering solos.
Throughout his career with Slayer, Hanneman co-wrote many of the band's classic songs, including "Raining Blood," "Angel of Death," "South of Heaven," and "War Ensemble." These tracks, characterized by their aggressive energy, complex structures, and dark themes, solidified Slayer's reputation as pioneers of extreme metal.
In addition to his musical talent, Hanneman was known for his distinctive stage presence. With his long hair, signature bandanas, and leather attire, he embodied the essence of a thrash metal guitarist. His fierce and intense performances captivated audiences around the world, further elevating Slayer's status as one of the most revered live acts in the metal scene.
Tragically, in early 2011, Hanneman contracted necrotizing fasciitis, a rare flesh-eating disease, from a spider bite. The infection severely affected his health and led to his absence from Slayer's touring activities. Despite his condition, Hanneman continued to contribute to the band's music and songwriting.
On 2 May 2013, Jeff Hanneman passed away at the age of 49 due to liver failure in a Southern California hospital. His death sent shockwaves through the metal community, as fans and fellow musicians mourned the loss of a true metal legend. Hanneman's impact on the genre and his contributions to Slayer's discography continue to resonate with fans, inspiring countless musicians and shaping the future of thrash metal.
Jeff Hanneman's legacy lives on through his music, which remains a testament to his extraordinary talent and creativity. His influence on the world of metal, both as a guitarist and songwriter, is immeasurable, and he will always be remembered as an integral part of Slayer's monumental journey.
Tom Araya, born Tomás Enrique Araya Díaz on 6 June 1961, in Viña del Mar, Chile, is a prominent figure in the world of heavy metal music. As the lead vocalist and bass guitar player of the American thrash metal band "Slayer", Araya has made significant contributions to the genre and has left an indelible mark on the metal community.
Araya's passion for music began at an early age. Growing up in a musical household, he was exposed to a variety of genres, including traditional Latin music. This early exposure laid the foundation for his future endeavors in the music industry.
In his teenage years, Araya joined a band called "Tradewinds". Although their success was limited, this experience served as a stepping stone for Araya's musical journey. Little did he know that his path would soon intersect with other talented musicians, giving rise to one of the most influential thrash metal bands of all time.
In 1981, Araya became a founding member of "Slayer", alongside guitarists Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman, as well as drummer Dave Lombardo. The band quickly gained recognition for their aggressive and fast-paced sound, characterized by intricate guitar riffs, powerful drumming, and Araya's distinctive vocals.
With Araya at the helm, Slayer released a series of groundbreaking albums that solidified their status as pioneers of the thrash metal genre. Their debut album, "Show No Mercy" (1983), showcased their raw energy and set the stage for their subsequent releases, including "Reign in Blood" (1986), "South of Heaven" (1988), and "Seasons in the Abyss" (1990). These albums pushed the boundaries of heavy metal and influenced countless bands in the years to come.
Tom Araya's contributions to Slayer extended beyond his vocal and bass guitar skills. He was also involved in the songwriting process, co-writing some of the band's most memorable songs. His lyrical themes often explored controversial and dark subjects, including warfare, religion, and serial killers, reflecting the band's confrontational and provocative approach.
Over the course of Slayer's career, they achieved considerable success, earning multiple Grammy nominations and selling millions of albums worldwide. They toured extensively, captivating audiences with their electrifying live performances and contributing to the band's legendary status.
In 2018, after nearly four decades of influencing the metal scene, Slayer announced their farewell tour, signaling the end of an era. The band performed their final show in November 2019, leaving a lasting impact on the metal community and cementing their place in heavy metal history.
Tom Araya's tenure in Slayer spanned over three decades, making him one of the longest-standing members of the band. His distinctive voice, formidable bass playing, and stage presence contributed significantly to Slayer's success and helped shape the sound of thrash metal.
Beyond his work with Slayer, Araya has also collaborated with other artists and contributed guest vocals on various projects. While the future of his musical career remains uncertain, there is no doubt that Tom Araya's contributions to heavy metal will continue to be celebrated and appreciated by generations of metal fans worldwide.
Detailed information incl collector's information, production information, and photos of the album covers can be viewed by selecting the records below individually.
Label & Catalogno | Band/Performers - Album Title |
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SLAYER – Black Serenade (2011, Germany) is an unofficial collection of bonus tracks and B-Sides. |
SLAYER - Christ Illusion (2006) Depicting a mutilated Christ painted by longtime collaborator Larry Carroll , the album's graphic artwork courted controversy. An alternative cover was issued to conservative retailers who felt uncomfortable with the original - |
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American Recordings
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SLAYER - Decade of Aggression (Live) |
SLAYER - Diabolus in Musica (1998, France) Diabolus in Musica is the eighth studio album by American thrash metal band Slayer. Released on June 9, 1998, it is the second studio album to feature drummer Paul Bostaph. |
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American Recordings W743 |
SLAYER - Eyes of the insane Red Vinyl 7" (2006, Europe) This record "Eyes of the Insane" is the 2006 single by the American thrash metal band 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, and are based on an article entitled "Casualty of War" in Texas Monthly magazine. "Eyes of the Insane" was written by vocalist Tom Araya during pre-production for the album.
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American Recordings ![]() |
SLAYER - God Hates Us All (2001) - |
SLAYER - Haunting the Chapel (1984, Canada) "Haunting the Chapel" is considered the first demonstration of the Slayers's "classic" Thrash Metal style as displayed on later albums |
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Metal Blade Records MBR 1024 / 71083 |
SLAYER - Haunting the Chapel (1984, USA) |
SLAYER - Hell Awaits (1985, Netherlands) "Hell Awaits" is the second studio album by the American thrash metal band Slayer, this is the first Roadrunner Release which has NO barcode. |
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Vinyl Passion VP80134 |
SLAYER - Live in Montreux 2002 2LP (2012, Netherlands) This album "SLAYER Live in Montreux 2002 2LP" was recorded at the Montreux Jazz Festival (Switzerland) on 7th July 2002. |
SLAYER - Live Undead Metal Blade Records (1984-1987, Netherlands) Collectors note: this release of "Live Undead" has the Metal Blade logo with a red guitar.. Other release of this album have the Metal Blade logo with a bleeing Axe. "Live Undead" is the first live extended play by the American thrash metal band Slayer. It was released through Metal Blade Records and recorded in New York City in front of a room of people. |
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Metal Blade Records RR 9574
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SLAYER - Live Undead ( Metal Blade with Blood Dripping AXE ) ( 1987, Netherlands ) New Web-Page Collectors note: this release of "Live Undead" has the Metal Blade logo with a blooded Axe. Other release of this album have the Metal Blade logo with a red guitar. Slayer recorded this album by playing live to a small audience in a studio as the venue. |
Metal Blade Records – 3984-14033-1
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SLAYER - Live Undead / Haunting the Chapel Ltd Ed Blue Vinyl (2008, Germany) Limited Edition 180g Heavy Weight of 500 copies worldwide, pressed on Blue Semi-Transparent vinyl This is copy 027 of 500 |
SLAYER - Reign in Blood ( 1986 Europe ) "Reign in Blood" is the third studio album and the major label debut by the American thrash metal band Slayer. It was released on October 7, 1986 through Def Jam Recordings. |
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Def American Recordings 846 871-1 |
SLAYER - Seasons in the Abyss (1990, United Kingdom) 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 after the record label changed its name. |
RoadrunneR RR 9868 |
SLAYER - Show No Mercy orig 1984 Black Vinyl (1984, Netherlands) New Web-Page This is the first Roadrunner Release of "Show No Mercy" , the debut album by American thrash metal band Slayer, 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. The band was forced to self-finance their debut album, combining the savings of vocalist Tom Araya, who was employed as a respiratory therapist, and money borrowed from guitarist Kerry King's father. |
SLAYER - Show No Mercy Grey Vinyl (2009, United Kingdom) This is the special edition of "Show No Mercy" pressed on Grey vinyl |
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SLAYER - Show No Mercy (White Vinyl) (2009,UK) This is a Limited Edition, pressed on White Vinyl of the album "Show No Mercy" by the American Thrash Metal band "Slayer. |
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SLAYER - South of Heaven (1988, EEC) "South of Heaven" is the fourth studio album by American thrash metal band Slayer. Released on July 5, 1988, the album was the band's second collaboration with record producer Rick Rubin, whose production skills on Slayer's previous album Reign in Blood had helped the band's sound evolve. |