- Canadian Release on Banzai Records
Slayer's 1984 EP "Haunting the Chapel" showcased their evolving thrash metal sound with tracks like "Chemical Warfare." Despite sharing the same haunting cover as the US release, the Canadian Banzai 12" Vinyl LP edition holds collector's appeal. Distributed by Banzai Records, it became sought after among metal enthusiasts, adding a unique chapter to Slayer's influential legacy in the Canadian music scene.
In the realm of heavy metal, Slayer stands as a formidable force, and one of their iconic releases, "Haunting the Chapel," holds a special place in the hearts of metal enthusiasts. This article delves into the creation history of this masterpiece and its unique presence in the Canadian Banzai 12" Vinyl LP format.
Slayer, formed in 1981 in Huntington Park, California, rose to prominence with their aggressive thrash metal sound and dark, intense lyrics. "Haunting the Chapel," an extended play (EP) released in 1984, marked a crucial point in their career. The EP showcased Slayer's evolving musical style, laying the foundation for their later seminal albums.
The creation of "Haunting the Chapel" was spurred by the band's desire to push the boundaries of thrash metal. Recorded at Prairie Sun Recording Studios in Cotati, California, the EP was produced by Slayer alongside Ron Fair. It featured three tracks: "Chemical Warfare," "Captor of Sin," and the title track "Haunting the Chapel." Each song exuded the band's signature ferocity, characterized by rapid guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and visceral vocals.
The Canadian release on the Banzai label added a distinctive element to the album's history. Banzai Records, a Canadian independent record label specializing in heavy metal, played a crucial role in bringing Slayer's music to the Canadian audience. The Banzai 12" Vinyl LP format became a sought-after collector's item for enthusiasts who appreciated both the music and the unique presentation.
The influence of "Haunting the Chapel" extended far beyond its initial release, shaping the landscape of thrash metal and inspiring countless bands in the genre. The Canadian Banzai 12" Vinyl LP, with its distinctive design and sonic intensity, became a coveted piece among collectors and fans of Slayer alike.
Music Genre: Thrash Metal |
Album Production information: The album: "SLAYER Haunting the Chapel Canada Banzai" was produced by: Brian Slagel. Brian Slagel is a pioneering figure in heavy metal, best known as the founder of Metal Blade Records in 1982. His label launched the careers of legendary bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Mercyful Fate, shaping the genre’s evolution. As a producer, he worked with Flotsam and Jetsam, Exciter, and Trouble, leaving a lasting impact.
Learn more about Brian Slagel.
Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Bill Metoyer Bill Metoyer is a legendary music producer and sound engineer known for shaping the sound of heavy metal. As Vice President and in-house engineer at Metal Blade Records in the 1980s, he worked with iconic bands like Slayer, Armored Saint, and Flotsam and Jetsam. His expertise in capturing metal’s raw intensity has left a lasting impact on the genre.
Learn more on his biography page.
This album was recorded at: Track Records Mastered at Capitol by Eddie Schreyer Eddy Schreyer, a top-tier mastering engineer and founder of Oasis Mastering, has shaped the sonic intensity of heavy metal for decades. His expert touch has refined albums by Slayer, Korn, System of a Down, and Slipknot, ensuring powerful clarity and relentless aggression. With over 30 years in the industry, Schreyer remains a key figure in metal production.
Read more about Eddy Schreyer.
Album covert art: Vince Gutierrez Vincent Gutierrez (aka Vince Gutierrez) In 1980s drew the artwork for: 3rd Stage Alert, Omen Battle Cry , Slayer - Haunting the Chapel , BITCH - The Bitch is Back Album cover concept: Kerry King, Jeff Hanneman, Vince Gutierrez |
| Record Label: Banzai BAM 1005 |
| Media Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
| Year & Country: 1984 Made in Canada |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: SLAYER Haunting the Chapel Canada Banzai |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "SLAYER Haunting the Chapel Canada Banzai" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "SLAYER Haunting the Chapel Canada Banzai" is:
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High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "SLAYER Haunting the Chapel Canada Banzai" |
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Album Back Cover Photo of "SLAYER Haunting the Chapel Canada Banzai" |
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Photo of "SLAYER Haunting the Chapel Canada Banzai" 12" LP Record - Side One: |
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Photo of "SLAYER Haunting the Chapel Canada Banzai" 12" LP Record - Side Two: |
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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 ) |
"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
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Christ Illusion 12" Vinyl LP
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Diabolus in Musica 12" Vinyl LP
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Eyes of the insane (Red Vinyl) 7" Vinyl Single
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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)
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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