SLAYER South of Heaven 12" LP Album Gallery & Information #Slayer #vinylrecords

Album Description:

"South of Heaven" is a monumental album that solidified Slayer's position as one of the pioneering bands in the thrash metal genre. Released on July 5, 1988, this fourth studio album marked the band's continued collaboration with record producer Rick Rubin, whose contribution to Slayer's previous album, "Reign in Blood", had already pushed the boundaries of their sound.

The album's 12" vinyl LP format includes the original Def Jam Recordings custom inner sleeve, which provides album details and complete lyrics for all the songs. This attention to detail showcases Slayer's commitment to delivering a comprehensive listening experience to their fans.

"South of Heaven" became Slayer's second album to enter the prestigious Billboard 200 chart and their last release under the Def Jam Recordings label. Afterward, the album was reissued under the American Recordings label following Rick Rubin's departure from his partnership with Russell Simmons. Distribution of the album was handled by Geffen Records through Warner Bros. Records, as Columbia Records initially refused to release any material by the band. Despite these challenges, the album managed to peak at number 57 on the charts and was later awarded a gold certification by the Recording Industry Association of America in 1992.

One notable aspect of "South of Heaven" is Slayer's deliberate decision to slow down the tempo compared to their previous works. This change in pace allowed the band to explore new musical territories while retaining their signature aggression and intensity. Undistorted guitars and toned-down vocals replaced the blistering speed and relentless aggression of their earlier albums. This stylistic shift received mixed reviews from critics and fans alike. While some praised the band for their musical evolution and willingness to experiment, others, accustomed to Slayer's faster and more aggressive style, expressed disappointment.

Despite the mixed reception, "South of Heaven" introduced two timeless tracks that have become permanent fixtures in Slayer's live performances. "Mandatory Suicide" and the album's title track continue to captivate audiences with their powerful riffs, haunting melodies, and intense lyrical themes. These songs showcase Slayer's ability to create dark, thought-provoking music that resonates with listeners on a visceral level.

The album's production team, led by Rick Rubin, played a crucial role in capturing Slayer's sound and vision. Sound engineers Andy Wallace, Bill Freesh, and the late Steven Ettinger (1952-2008) worked tirelessly to achieve the desired sonic impact, while Howie "Iron" Weinberg handled the mastering engineering process. The result is a meticulously crafted album that showcases the band's musical prowess and the distinctive atmosphere of their sound.

In terms of album design, Larry W. Carroll's illustration and photography add a visual dimension that complements the music's darkness and intensity. The cover art creates a sense of foreboding and sets the stage for the auditory journey that awaits the listener.

Music Genre:

Album Production Information:

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.

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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 album s, 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.

Andy Wallace - Sound Engineer

Andy Wallace is an American sound engineer who has made significant contributions to the metal and rock music genres. He gained prominence primarily in the 1980s and 1990s and is widely recognized for his work on albums by Slayer and Sepultura.

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During the 1980s, Andy Wallace was involved in engineering and mixing various albums for Slayer, a legendary thrash metal band. He worked on their critically acclaimed releases such as "Reign in Blood" (1986) , "South of Heaven" (1988) , and "Seasons in the Abyss" (1990) . These albums are considered landmarks in the genre and helped shape the sound of extreme metal.

In the 1990s, Andy Wallace continued to make his mark in the metal scene, working with Brazilian metal band Sepultura . He served as the engineer and mixer for their influential album "Chaos A.D". (1993). This record showcased a fusion of thrash and groove metal, helping Sepultura expand their musical boundaries and gain international recognition. Wallace's engineering skills contributed to the album's powerful and heavy sound.

Besides Slayer and Sepultura, Andy Wallace has worked with numerous other renowned bands and artists across various genres. His extensive discography includes collaborations with acts like Nirvana, Rage Against the Machine, Alice in Chains, Faith No More, System of a Down, Slipknot, and many more.

Andy Wallace's expertise lies in capturing the raw energy and aggression of heavy music while maintaining clarity and balance in the mix. His engineering and mixing techniques have had a lasting impact on the metal and rock music scenes, earning him a reputation as one of the industry's top sound engineers

Bill Freesh - Sound Engineer

Steven Ettinger (1952-2008) - Sound Engineer

"Steve Ett" shortname for "Steve Ettinger" in-house sound engineer at "Chung King House of Metal", New York City

Howie "Iron" Weinberg - Mastering Engineer

Howie Weinberg is a highly renowned and respected mastering engineer in the music industry. With a career spanning over four decades, he has played an instrumental role in shaping the sound and quality of numerous iconic albums. Born on 14 September 14, 1953, in New York City, Howie's passion for music began at a young age.

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In the early 1970s, Weinberg embarked on his journey into the music industry, starting as an assistant engineer at Masterdisk, a leading mastering studio in New York City. Under the guidance of accomplished engineers like Bob Ludwig and Greg Calbi, Howie honed his skills and gained invaluable experience working with a diverse range of artists and genres.

Throughout the 1980s, Weinberg emerged as a prominent figure in the industry, known for his meticulous attention to detail and innovative approach to mastering. His ability to enhance the sonic qualities of recordings and optimize their playback on various formats made him highly sought after by both established and emerging artists.

One of the pivotal moments in Howie Weinberg's career came when he collaborated with renowned producer Rick Rubin on the Beastie Boys' groundbreaking album "Licensed to Ill" in 1986. The success of the album further solidified Howie's reputation as an exceptional mastering engineer. This led to a fruitful partnership with Rubin, and they worked together on a string of influential albums, including releases by Slayer, Public Enemy, and Johnny Cash.

Weinberg's remarkable talent for mastering became evident in his ability to capture the essence of an artist's vision while adding his expertise to create a polished and dynamic final product. His work on Nirvana's iconic album "Nevermind" in 1991 is a testament to his ability to bring out the best in a recording, with his mastering contributing to the album's raw energy and sonic impact.

Over the years, Howie Weinberg has collaborated with a wide array of artists and bands from various genres, including U2, The White Stripes, Smashing Pumpkins, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and many others. His discography boasts an extensive list of critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums, solidifying his position as one of the most influential mastering engineers of his time.

In 1995, Howie Weinberg opened his own mastering studio, Howie Weinberg Mastering, in Los Angeles. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a deep understanding of the mastering process, the studio became a go-to destination for artists seeking the highest level of audio quality for their projects.

Throughout his career, Weinberg has been recognized with numerous accolades, including several Grammy nominations and wins for his exceptional contributions to the music industry. He is highly respected by his peers and has been a mentor to many aspiring mastering engineers, passing on his knowledge and expertise to the next generation.

Howie Weinberg's unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to elevate the sonic experience of countless albums have solidified his position as a true master of his art. His meticulous attention to detail, technical expertise, and passion for music continue to shape the industry and inspire generations of mastering engineers to strive for excellence.

Larry W. Carroll - Illustration, Photography

Record Label:

Def Jam Recordings / Geffen Records 924 203 (924203)

Packaging:

This album includes the original Def Jam Recordings custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by Slayer

Record Format

12" Vinyl LP

Year and Country:

1988 Made in EEC

Speed Thrash Metal Music

Band Members and Musicians on: Slayer South of Heaven

Tom Araya - Vocals, Bass

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.

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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.
Jeff Hanneman - Guitar

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.

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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.
Kerry King - Guitars

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.

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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.
Dave Lombardo - Drums

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.

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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.