SLAYER - South of Heaven - Def Jam Recordings 12" Vinyl LP Album

"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.

High Resolution Photo #1 SLAYER South Heaven
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 is a legendary music producer and co-founder of Def Jam Recordings. Born in 1963, he revolutionized hip-hop, thrash metal, and rock with his minimalist production style. His work with artists like Metallica, Slayer, and Johnny Cash shaped modern music. Discover more about his legacy in the full biography.

Andy Wallace - Sound Engineer

Andy Wallace is an acclaimed American sound engineer and mixer whose precision and power helped define the sound of modern rock and metal. From Slayer’s brutal thrash to Sepultura’s tribal metal and Nirvana’s grunge revolution, his mixes set new standards in audio production. Read more about Andy Wallace.

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 renowned mastering engineer whose work has defined the sound of countless legendary albums. With over 200 Gold and Platinum records, he has mastered classics from Metallica, Nirvana, and Slayer, shaping the sonic landscape of rock and metal. His expertise continues to influence generations of musicians. Learn more in the full biography.

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
    Slayer's Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Tom Araya - Vocals, Bass
    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 - 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 - Guitars
    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.
Complete Track Listing of: Slayer South of Heaven
    Side One:
  1. South of Heaven
  2. Silent Scream
  3. Live Undead
  4. Behind the Crooked Cross
  5. Mandator Suicide
    Side Two:
  1. Ghosts of War
  2. Read Between the Lies
  3. Cleanse the Soul
  4. Dissident
  5. Aggressor
  6. Spill the Blood
High Resolution Photo #1 SLAYER South Heaven
Album Back Cover Photo of "SLAYER South of Heaven"
High Resolution Photo #2 SLAYER South Heaven
Inner Sleeve of "SLAYER South of Heaven" Album
High Resolution Photo #3 SLAYER South Heaven
Inner Sleeve Photo of "SLAYER South of Heaven" Album
High Resolution Photo #4 SLAYER South Heaven
Record Label Photo of "SLAYER South of Heaven" 12" LP Record - Side One:
High Resolution Photo #5 SLAYER South Heaven
Record Label Photo of "SLAYER South of Heaven" 12" LP Record - Side Two:
High Resolution Photo #6 SLAYER South Heaven

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 )

Slayer: The Thrash Metal Pioneers and Controversial Legends of Heavy Music

SLAYER – Black Serenade album front cover vinyl record
SLAYER – Black Serenade

"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
SLAYER - Christ Illusion album front cover vinyl record
SLAYER - Christ Illusion

Slayer’s Christ Illusion (2006) marked the return of drummer Dave Lombardo and showcased the band’s aggressive thrash sound. Featuring Grammy-winning tracks ‘Eyes of the Insane’ and ‘Final Six,’ the album’s controversial Larry Carroll artwork and themes of war and religion cement it as a standout in Slayer’s legendary discography.

Christ Illusion 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Diabolus in Musica album front cover vinyl record
SLAYER - Diabolus in Musica

One of the standout features on "Diabolus in Musica" 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 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Eyes of the insane (Red Vinyl)  album front cover vinyl record
SLAYER - Eyes of the Insane

"Eyes of the Insane" is the 2006 single by 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

Eyes of the insane (Red Vinyl) 7" Vinyl Single
SLAYER - God Hates Us All  album front cover vinyl record
SLAYER - God Hates Us All

The album opens with the track "Darkness of Christ," which features a sample from a speech by actress Gina Gershon in the film "Bound." This sample sets the stage for the rest of the album, as it is a chilling and ominous

God Hates Us All 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Haunting the Chapel (Canadian & USA Releases) album front cover vinyl record
SLAYER - Haunting the Chapel

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)
SLAYER - Hell Awaits album front cover vinyl record
SLAYER - Hell Awaits

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

Hell Awaits 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Live in Montreux 2002  album front cover vinyl record
SLAYER - Live in Montreux 2002

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

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

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 - Reign in Blood album front cover vinyl record
SLAYER - Reign in Blood

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
SLAYER - Seasons in the Abyss album front cover vinyl record
SLAYER - Seasons in the Abyss

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
SLAYER - Show No Mercy (Black & Coloured Vinyl Versions)
 album front cover vinyl record
SLAYER - Show No Mercy

"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 - South of Heaven album front cover vinyl record
SLAYER - South of Heaven

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