SLAYER - HELL AWAITS 12" Vinyl LP Album

- NO BARCODE

This is the first Roadrunner Release of "Hell Awaits", the second studio album by the American thrash metal band Slayer. The band's previous release, "Show No Mercy", became Metal Blade Records' highest selling release; as a result, producer Brian Slagel desired to release a second Slayer album. To that end, Slagel financed a recording budget (Show No Mercy was paid for by band members) and recruited several experienced producers to help in the studio.

Album Front Cover Photo of SLAYER HELL AWAITS NO BARCODE

Album Description:

In the realm of heavy metal, few bands have achieved the level of ferocity and influence that Slayer has. With their breakneck speed, brutal riffs, and uncompromising lyrical themes, Slayer forged a path that countless bands would follow. One of their most iconic releases, "Hell Awaits," stands as a testament to their unrivaled intensity and uncompromising vision. Today, we delve into the raw power of the "Hell Awaits" 12" Vinyl LP Album, without the barcode, and explore the artistic elements that make it a true collector's gem.

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 that would become their signature. The album cover design, crafted by Albert Cueller, captures the essence of the album perfectly. A haunting, otherworldly landscape filled with menacing creatures and ominous symbols serves as a visual gateway to the aural onslaught contained within.

Upon sliding the vinyl out of its sleeve, fans will be greeted with the original custom inner sleeve, adorned with album details and complete lyrics. This attention to detail is a testament to the band's dedication to delivering a comprehensive artistic experience to their audience. It allows listeners to fully immerse themselves in the bleak and sinister world Slayer has created.

"Hell Awaits" features seven tracks of unrelenting thrash metal, with each song contributing to the album's overall dark and foreboding atmosphere. The relentless and precise guitar work of Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman, coupled with Tom Araya's menacing vocals and Dave Lombardo's thunderous drumming, create an unholy sonic assault that defines Slayer's sound. From the ominous title track, which opens the album with a chilling spoken word introduction, to the chaotic fury of "Kill Again" and the epic closing track "Hardening of the Arteries," each song showcases Slayer at the height of their musical prowess.

The recording of "Hell Awaits" took place at Eldorado Studios in Hollywood, USA. Produced by Brian Slagel and Slayer themselves, with Carolyn Collins serving as the assistant engineer, the album captures the raw energy and intensity of the band's live performances. The production maintains a balance that allows each instrument to shine through the relentless wall of sound, adding to the album's timeless appeal.

The album cover photography, credited to Lowell Ketz, captures the band in their prime. A striking image of the band members emanating an aura of darkness and aggression, it encapsulates the spirit of Slayer and their dedication to pushing the boundaries of extreme music.

Manufactured in the Netherlands in 1985, this 12" Vinyl LP Album of "Hell Awaits" without the barcode holds a special place in the hearts of Slayer fans and collectors alike. Its scarcity and historical significance make it a highly sought-after item, a testament to the enduring legacy of Slayer and their impact on the world of heavy metal.

Production & Recording Information

This album "SLAYER HELL AWAITS NO BARCODE" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos

The album: "SLAYER HELL AWAITS NO BARCODE" was produced by: Brian Slagel and Slayer:

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.

Assistant engineered by Carolyn Collins

Carolyn Collins started her sound engineering career with Omen's Battle Cry as one of the first projects in which she participated, in 1985. She was recruited by Brian Slagel to participate in the sound engineering of Slayer's Hell Awaits album and has worked at the Eldorado Studio, Hollywood, Los Angeles.

This album was recorded at: Eldorado Studios, Hollywood, USA

Eldorado Studios is a music recording studio in Hollywood, Los Angeles, USA and has been used by the Heavy Metal bands like: Anthrax, Omen and Slayer

Album cover design: Albert Cueller

Albert Cueller has done two album cover for Slayer: "Hell Awaits" and "Live Undead".

Album cover photography: Lowell Ketz

 


Music Genre:

Speed / Thrash Metal

Label & Catalognr:

RoadrunneR RR 9795  

Album Packaging:

This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by Slayer and photos of the Slayer-band.  

Media Format:

Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

1985 Made in Netherlands  

Musicians:
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Tom Araya - Bass, Vocals
    Tom Araya is a legendary bassist and vocalist, best known for his role in Slayer, one of thrash metal’s most influential bands. Joining in 1981, he helped shape their aggressive sound, delivering powerful performances and thought-provoking lyrics. With classic albums like Reign in Blood and Seasons in the Abyss, his impact on metal remains undeniable. Read more
  • Jeff Hanneman - Lead Guitar
    Jeff Hanneman was a legendary guitarist and founding member of Slayer, one of thrash metal’s most influential bands. His aggressive riffs, dark themes, and songwriting shaped the genre, co-writing classics like Raining Blood and Angel of Death. A fierce performer, his legacy lives on in metal history. Learn more about his impact on music on the Jeff Hanneman Biography page.
  • Kerry King - Lead Guitar
    Kerry King, a pioneering thrash metal guitarist, co-founded Slayer in 1981, shaping the genre with aggressive riffs, blistering solos, and dark, intense songwriting. His signature playing style defined classics like Reign in Blood and cemented Slayer’s place among metal’s elite. With a fierce stage presence and lasting influence, King remains a metal icon. Read more in his biography.
  • Dave Lombardo - Drums
    Dave Lombardo is a legendary drummer, best known for his groundbreaking work with Slayer. Renowned for his lightning-fast double bass drumming and complex rhythms, he helped shape the thrash metal genre. Beyond Slayer, he played with Fantômas, Testament, and Suicidal Tendencies. His technical mastery and innovation have influenced generations of musicians. Learn more about Dave Lombardo here.
Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Hell Awaits (Lyrics: King) (Music: Hanneman/King) 6:12
  2. Kill Again (Lyrics: King) (Music: Hanneman/King) 4:53
  3. At Dawn They Sleep (Lyrics: Araya/Hanneman/King)(Music: Hanneman) 6:16
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Praise of Death (Lyrics: Hanneman) (Music: King) 5:17
  2. Necrophiliac (Lyrics: Hanneman/King)(Music: Hanneman) 3:43
  3. Crypts of Eternity (Lyrics: Araya/Hanneman/King)(Music: Hanneman/King) 6:37
  4. Hardening of the Arteries (Lyrics & Music: Hanneman) 3:57

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SLAYER - Diabolus in Musica album front cover vinyl record

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SLAYER - God Hates Us All  album front cover vinyl record

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SLAYER - Haunting the Chapel (Canadian & USA Releases) album front cover vinyl record

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SLAYER - Hell Awaits album front cover vinyl record

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SLAYER - Live Undead (Two different versions) album front cover vinyl record

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SLAYER - Live Undead / Haunting the Chapel Ltd Ed Blue album front cover vinyl record

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