Few bands in metal inspire debates quite like Slayer. Whether you’re a lifelong thrash fanatic or someone who only owns a handful of metal albums, chances are Slayer has soundtracked at least a few moments of pure headbanging chaos.
The band journey began with “Show No Mercy” (1983) a raw and hungry debut that helped lay the foundation for extreme metal. Then came “Hell Awaits” (1985) pushing the darkness even further before the game-changing. “Reign in Blood” (1986) arrived and rewrote the rules of aggression. At just under 30 minutes, it remains one of the most influential and devastating albums ever recorded.
But Slayer wasn’t a one-album wonder. “South of Heaven” (1988) surprised fans by slowing things down and adding a darker atmosphere, while “Seasons in the Abyss” (1990) perfectly balanced melody, brutality and groove. Many fans still consider that era the band untouchable peak.
The later years brought plenty of discussion. “Divine Intervention” (1994), “Diabolus in Musica” (1998) and “God Hates Us All” (2001) each explored different directions while keeping Slayer trademark intensity intact. Then we had a strong return to form with “Christ Illusion” (2006) and “World Painted Blood” (2009) that proved the band still had it in them to deliver crushing riffs decades into their career.
Their final studio record “Repentless” (2015) was a tribute to the late Jeff Hanneman and a reminder that Slayer never forgot how to deliver sonic destruction.
Now, this is the impossible question. What is the best Slayer album?
Is it the relentless attack of “Reign in Blood”? The dark magic of “Hell Awaits”? The atmosphere of “South of Heaven”? The balance of “Seasons in the Abyss”? Or perhaps an underrated favorite from the later years?
Cast your vote in the poll and let the battle begin. One band. Twelve studio albums. Countless legendary riffs. Which Slayer album is the ultimate champion? 🤘
Loading ...Band members
Current
Kerry King – guitars, backing vocals
Tom Araya – bass, lead vocals
Paul Bostaph – drums
Gary Holt – guitars
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