Slayer: The Story Behind The Band

Introduction to Slayer

• Date of Significance: October 7, 1986
• Album Released: Reign in Blood
• Band Members: Tom Araya, Kerry King, Jeff Hanneman, Dave Lombardo
• Reputation: Most influential thrash metal band, controversial for themes considered satanic and violent.
• Notable Album: Reign in Blood faced refusal from Columbia Records, released through Geffen without logo.

Early Years

• Tom Araya: Born in Chile, moved to America at age 5, influenced by The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.
• Kerry King: Born in 1964, played guitar from age 13, influenced by Black Sabbath, AC/DC, and Venom.
• Jeff Hanneman: Born in 1964, influenced by punk and hardcore, joined after meeting King.
• Dave Lombardo: Born in Havana, moved to the US, influenced by Kiss, disco, and later punk.

Formation and Early Career

• Band Formation: Officially formed when King, Hanneman, Lombardo, and Araya came together.
• First Gigs: Started by renting spaces, promoting their own shows through flyers and megaphones.
• First Breakthrough: Spotted by Brian Slagle of Metal Blade Records.
• Debut Release: 'Show No Mercy' in 1983, followed by a national tour with Venom.

Rise to Fame

• Thrash Movement: Alongside Metallica and Megadeth, Slayer became an integral part of the 1980s thrash movement.
• Controversies: Met with backlash from the PMRC, accused of promoting obscene and violent lyrics.
• Censorship: Faced challenges during the 'Parental Guidance' era.

Reign in Blood

• Production: Signed to Def Jam Records under Rick Rubin.
• Controversial Song: 'Angel of Death' inspired by Nazi officer Joseph Mengele.
• Reception: Despite controversy, peaked at No. 94 on Billboard 200.

Influence and Legacy

• Impact on Music: Influenced bands like Pantera to switch from glam to groove metal.
• Continued Success: Released 12 studio albums without bowing to music trends.
• Final Years: Jeff Hanneman's death in 2013, issues with Dave Lombardo.
• Disbandment: Slayer officially disbanded after a farewell tour ending in 2019.

Conclusion

• Legacy: Known for their uncompromising style and influence on extreme music genres.
• Cultural Impact: The story of Slayer is one of overcoming controversy to maintain a legacy in thrash metal history.