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.
Guitarist Jeff Hanneman wrote most of the album's content which has been described as Slayer's most experimental album. The album's title is a Latin term for "The Devil in Music", a musical interval known for its dissonance. Lyrical themes explored on the album include religion, deviants, death, maniacs, war, and serial killers.
This album "SLAYER Diabolus in Musica" includes the original custom inner sleeves with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos.
The 1998 SLAYER album, "Diabolus in Musica", holds a significant place in the band's discography and the evolution of thrash metal. Released on June 9th, this 12" vinyl LP showcases the band's commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new musical territories. With drummer Paul Bostaph making his second studio appearance, "Diabolus in Musica" marks a notable milestone for Slayer.
One of the standout features of this album 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" is often regarded as Slayer's most experimental album, as the band incorporates elements of nu-metal and industrial metal into their traditional thrash sound. This departure from their signature style showcased their willingness to take risks and explore new sonic avenues.
The Latin title of the album, "Diabolus in Musica", translates to "The Devil in Music". It refers to a specific dissonant musical interval known for its sinister and unsettling qualities. This choice of title perfectly encapsulates the overall tone and atmosphere of the album. Throughout the record, Slayer delves into a variety of dark and controversial themes, including religion, deviants, death, maniacs, war, and serial killers. The lyrics are confrontational and unapologetic, a trademark of Slayer's lyrical approach.
In addition to the music and lyrics, the physical presentation of the album is noteworthy. The 12" vinyl LP includes original custom inner sleeves, providing album details, complete lyrics of all songs, and artwork/photos. These elements contribute to the overall experience of listening to "Diabolus in Musica" as a tangible and immersive piece of art.
As with any musical departure from an established style, "Diabolus in Musica" received mixed reactions from fans and critics alike. While some embraced Slayer's experimentation and evolution, others longed for a return to the band's more traditional thrash sound. Nonetheless, the album's significance lies in its willingness to challenge conventions and explore new musical directions, showcasing Slayer's versatility as musicians and their commitment to artistic growth.
Album Production information: The album: "SLAYER Diabolus in Musica" was produced by: Rick Rubin Rick Rubin, born Fredrick Jay Rubin on 10 March 1963, is a renowned American music producer, record label executive, and entrepreneur. He is widely recognized for his immense contributions to the music industry, particularly in the genre of thrash metal. Rubin's innovative production techniques and keen ear for sound have shaped the careers of numerous legendary artists, including Danzig, Metallica, and Slayer. Born in Long Beach, New York, Rubin developed a deep passion for music from a young age. Growing up in a diverse cultural environment, he was exposed to a wide range of musical genres, which greatly influenced his later work. In his teenage years, Rubin immersed himself in the vibrant New York punk rock scene, attending shows and embracing the rebellious spirit of the movement. Rubin's foray into the music industry began in the early 1980s when he co-founded Def Jam Recordings with Russell Simmons. The label quickly gained prominence and became one of the most influential hip-hop imprints of its time. Rubin's keen ability to recognize emerging talent led him to work with iconic rap acts such as Run-D.M.C., LL Cool J, and Beastie Boys, among others. His production style, characterized by stripped-down beats and minimalist arrangements, revolutionized the hip-hop genre and earned him widespread acclaim. In the mid-1980s, Rubin's diverse musical tastes led him to explore the realms of heavy metal and hard rock. He founded Def American Recordings (later renamed American Recordings) as an avenue to work with artists from these genres. It was during this time that Rubin forged a partnership with thrash metal giants such as Danzig, Metallica, and Slayer. Rubin's work with Danzig resulted in the band's self-titled debut album in 1988, which showcased their raw energy and gothic sensibilities. His production brought a clarity and intensity to their sound, solidifying their position as one of the pioneering acts of dark, heavy music. His collaboration with Metallica on their critically acclaimed fifth studio album, "Metallica" (commonly known as "The Black Album"), is regarded as one of his most significant achievements. Released in 1991, the album showcased a more accessible sound while retaining the band's heavy roots. Rubin's guidance in songwriting and production helped Metallica achieve commercial success while maintaining their artistic integrity. Rubin's involvement with Slayer began in 1986 when he produced their landmark album, "Reign in Blood". The record, known for its breakneck speed and intense lyrical themes, is often regarded as one of the greatest thrash metal albums of all time. Rubin continued to collaborate with Slayer on subsequent albums, including "South of Heaven" (1988) and "Seasons in the Abyss" (1990), solidifying his status as a go-to producer for the band. Throughout his career, Rubin's production style has been marked by his ability to capture the essence and raw power of the artists he works with. His minimalist approach, combined with a relentless pursuit of sonic perfection, has garnered him numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards. Beyond his work in thrash metal, Rick Rubin has collaborated with artists from a wide range of genres, including rock, pop, country, and folk. Some of his notable collaborations include projects with Red Hot Chili Peppers, Johnny Cash, Tom Petty, Adele, and Kanye West, among many others. Rick Rubin's influence on the music industry extends far beyond his role as a producer. His entrepreneurial ventures, such as the co-founding of Def Jam Recordings and his involvement with American Recordings, have left an indelible mark on the business side of music. Rubin's career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to artistic integrity and his innate ability to shape and redefine genres. Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Greg Gordon This album was recorded at: Oceanway Studios, Los Angeles. California |
Record Label Information: American 491302 |
Media Format: 12" Double Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 460 gram |
Year and Country: 1998 Made in France |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: SLAYER Diabolus in Musica |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "SLAYER Diabolus in Musica" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "SLAYER Diabolus in Musica" is:
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Album Front Cover Photo of "SLAYER Diabolus in Musica" |
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Album Back Cover Photo of "SLAYER Diabolus in Musica" |
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Inner Cover of "SLAYER Diabolus in Musica" Album |
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Close-up Photo of "SLAYER Diabolus in Musica" Record Label
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ) |
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).
The Controversy
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.