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'''Slayer''' is an<!--DO NOT ADD GRAMMY WINNING HERE--> ] ] band founded by ]s ] and ].<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> Slayer rose to fame as a leader of the American thrash metal movement with their 1986 release '']'', which has been called "the heaviest album of all time".<ref name="Kerrang! Hall Of Fame">{{cite web|title = Kerrang! Hall Of Fame|author=|publisher=]|date=]|url=http://kerrang.typepad.com/kerrang_awards_2006_blog/2006/08/kerrang_hall_of.html|accessdate = 2006-01-10 }}</ref> The band is credited as one of the "]" thrash metal bands, along with ], ], and ].<ref name="Thrash Metal">{{cite web|title = Thrash Metal|author=|publisher=EOL Audio|date=|url = http://www.eraseronline.com/styledisplay.php?Style=93|accessdate=2006-12-28}}</ref> '''Slayer''' is an<!--DO NOT ADD GRAMMY WINNING HERE--> ] ] band founded by ]s ] and ].<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> Slayer rose to fame as a leader of the American thrash metal movement with their 1986 release '']'', which has been called "the heaviest album of all time".<ref name="Kerrang! Hall Of Fame">{{cite web|title = Kerrang! Hall Of Boobs Fame|author=|publisher=

Slayer is known for its musical traits, involving fast ], ]s, ], and shouting vocals. The band's lyrics and album art, which cover topics such as ], ], ] and ]fare have generated album bans, delays, lawsuits and strong criticism from religious groups and the public.

Since their debut record in 1983, the band has released two ]s, one ], two DVDs, two ]s, and ten albums, four of which have received gold ] in the ]. The band has received two ] nominations, winning one in 2007 for the song "]", and headlined music festivals worldwide, including ], ] and the ].

==History==
===''Early days'' (1981&ndash;1982)===
Slayer formed in 1981, when guitarist ] met ] while auditioning for a band.<ref name="Knac.com interview with Jeff Hanneman">{{cite web|title = Knac.com interview with Jeff Hanneman|author = Davis, Brian |publisher = Knac.com|url = http://www.knac.com/article.asp?ArticleID=3153|accessdate = 2006-12-13 }}</ref> The two recruited bassist and vocalist ], who had played with King in a band called Quits, and drummer ] who met King while delivering pizzas.<ref name="Drummerworld - Dave Lombardo"/> The band began playing ]s of ] and ] songs at clubs and parties in ]. Early shows relied on a ] image, which featured ]s, make-up, spikes, and inverted crosses.<ref name="All Music Guide Biography of Slayer"/> A rumor has the band originally known as Dragonslayer, after the 1981 movie of the same ]. However, when King was asked "How did you come up with the name Dragonslayer?" King responded "We never did; it's a myth to this day."<ref name="Kerry King about the Dragonslayer myth, Christ Illusion, previous albums and experimenting">{{cite web
|title=Kerry King about the Dragonslayer myth, Christ Illusion, previous albums and experimenting |publisher=www.faceculture.nl |date=] |url=http://www.faceculture.nl/slayer/index.htm# |accessdate=2007-04-05}}</ref>

The band was offered to open for Bitch at the Woodstock Club in ], performing eight songs — six being ]. While performing the song "]" by Iron Maiden the band was spotted by ], a former ] who had recently founded ]. Impressed with Slayer's performance, Slagel met with the band backstage and asked them to record an original song, "Aggressive Perfector"({{audio|Aggressive Perfector clip.ogg|sample}}) for his upcoming '']'' compilation. The band agreed and the song created underground buzz, which led to Slagel offering the band a ] with Metal Blade.<ref name="INTERVIEW WITH BRIAN SLAGEL">{{cite web|title = Interview with Brian Slagel|author = German, Eric|publisher = Metalupdate.com|url = http://www.metalupdate.com/interviewmetalblade.html|accessdate = 2006-12-04}}</ref>

===''Show No Mercy'' (1983&ndash;1984)===
Without a recording budget, the band was forced to self-finance its debut album. Combining the savings of Araya, who was employed as a ],<ref name="Live Chat with Tom Araya of Slayer">{{cite web
|title = Live Chat with Tom Araya of Slayer
|author =
|publisher = ESPguitars.com
|url=http://www.espguitars.com/news/news_tomchat.html
|accessdate = 2006-12-10 }}</ref> and money borrowed from King's father,<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer">{{cite web|title=An exclusive oral history of Slayer|publisher=Decibel Magazine|url=http://www.decibelmagazine.com/features_detail.aspx?id=4566|accessdate=2006-12-03}}</ref> the band entered the studio in November 1983. The album was rushed into release, hitting shelves three weeks after tracks were completed. '']'', released in December 1983 by ], generated underground popularity for the band, and they began their first national club tour in 1984 to promote the album traveling in Araya's ] towing a ] trailer.<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> The tour gave the band additional popularity; sales of ''Show No Mercy'' reached more than 20,000 in the US and another 20,000 worldwide.<ref name="INTERVIEW WITH BRIAN SLAGEL"/>
]

In August 1984, Slayer released a three song ], entitled '']''. The EP featured a darker, more ]-oriented style than its predecessor, and laid the groundwork for the future direction of the band.<ref name="Slayer : Haunting the Chapel">{{cite web|title=Slayer:Haunting the Chapel|author=Rivadavia, Ed|publisher=All Music Guide|url = http://www.artistdirect.com/nad/store/artist/album/0,,164341,00.html|accessdate=2006-12-01}}</ref> The opening track, "Chemical Warfare," has become a live staple, played at nearly every show since 1984. After the release of ''Haunting the Chapel'', Slayer made its live European debut at the ''Heavy Sounds Festival'' in ] opening for ],<ref name="SLAYER - Jeff Hanneman">{{cite web|title=Slayer - Jeff Hanneman|author=Lahtinen, Lexi|publisher=Metal-rules.com|date=]|url=http://www.metal-rules.com/zine/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=737&Itemid=60|accessdate=2006-12-27}}</ref> returning to the US to begin the ''Haunting The West Coast'' tour.<ref name="Dark Angel">{{cite web|title=Dark Angel|publisher=Voicesfromthedarkside.com|url=http://www.voicesfromthedarkside.de/interviews/darkangel2.htm|accessdate=2007-03-04}}</ref>

Following the tour, King temporarily left Slayer to join ]'s new band ].<ref name="Megadeth History">{{cite web|title = Megadeth History|publisher = Megadeth.com|url =http://www.megadeth.com/index.php?section=history|accessdate=2006-12-10}}</ref> Hanneman was worried about King's decision, stating in an interview "I guess we’re gonna get a new guitar player".<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> While Mustaine wanted King to stay on a permanent basis, King rejoined Slayer after five shows, stating Megadeth was "taking too much of my time".<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> The split caused a rift between King and Mustaine, which evolved into a long running feud between the two bands.<ref name="cocksucker">{{cite web | url = http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=32802 |title="Slayer's Kerry King Says Dave Mustaine is 'A Cocksucker'" - Feb. 12, 2005|work=Blabbermouth.net|accessdate = October 21 | accessyear = 2006}}</ref> Following King's return, the band embarked on the ''1984 Combat Tour'', with ] and ], and released a ] titled '']'' in November.

===''Hell Awaits'' (1985&ndash;1986)===
Slayer released its first live ] in 1985, dubbed ''Combat Tour: The Ultimate Revenge''. The video featured live footage filmed at ]'s ] club, on the band's 1984 tour with Venom and Exodus. By early 1985, ''Show No Mercy'' had sold over 40,000 copies,<ref name="INTERVIEW WITH BRIAN SLAGEL"/> which led to the band returning to the studio to record a second full length album. Metal Blade financed a recording budget, which allowed the band to hire producer ].<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/>
{{Sound sample box align right|Music sample:}}
{{Listen
|filename= Hell Awaits clip.ogg
|title="Hell Awaits" (1985)
|description=28 second sample from Slayer's "Hell Awaits".
|format=]}}
{{sample box end}}
Released in September 1985, Slayer's second full length release '']'' expanded on the darkness of ''Haunting the Chapel'', with ] and ] as common song subjects. The album was the band's most ] offering, featuring longer and more complex song structures.<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> The intro is a backwards recording of a demonic-sounding voice repeating "Join us," ending with "Welcome back" before the track begins.<ref name="Why They Rule - #6 Slayer"/>

===''Reign in Blood'' (1986&ndash;1987)===
Following the success of ''Hell Awaits'', Slayer was offered a recording contract with ]'s newly founded ], a largely ]-based label.<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> The band accepted and with an experienced producer and ] recording budget, the band underwent a sonic makeover resulting in shorter, faster songs with clearer production. Gone were the complex arrangements and long songs featured on ''Hell Awaits'', ditched in favor of stripped down, ] influenced song structures.<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/>
]'' was delayed due to the nature of its artwork and lyrical themes.]]

Def Jam's distributor, ], refused to release the album '']'' due to its graphic cover art and lyrical themes.<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> For example, "]" detailed ] ]s and the ] conducted by Nazi physician ]. The album was distributed by ] on ], ]. However, due to the controversy, ''Reign in Blood'' did not appear on Geffen Records’ release schedule.<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> Although the album received virtually no radio airplay, it became the band's first to enter the ], debuting at #94,<ref name="Billboard">{{cite web|title=Slayer's album chart history|publisher= Billboard.com|url=http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/retrieve_chart_history.do?model.chartFormatGroupName=Albums&model.vnuArtistId=5692&model.vnuAlbumId=789249|accessdate=2006-12-01}}</ref> and the band's first album certified gold in the United States.<ref name="RIAA"/>

In October 1986, Slayer embarked on the ''Reign in Pain'' world tour, with ] in the US, and ] in Europe. The band were added as the opening act on ]'s US tour, but just one month in, drummer Lombardo left the band: "I wasn't making any money. I figured if we were gonna be doing this professionally, on a major label, I wanted my rent and utilities paid."<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> To continue with the tour, Slayer enlisted ] of ]. However, Lombardo's wife convinced Dave to return in 1987.<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> At the insistence of Rubin, Slayer recorded a ] of ]'s "]" for the film '']''.<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> Although the band was not happy with the final product, Hanneman deeming it a poor representation of Slayer and King labeling it "a hunk of shit", it was one of their first songs to garner radio ].<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/>

===''South of Heaven'' (1988&ndash;1989)===
Slayer returned to the studio to record their fourth studio album. To contrast the speed of ''Reign in Blood'', the band consciously decided to slow down the ] incorporating melodic singing, rather than screaming. Hanneman asserted; "We knew we couldn’t top ''Reign in Blood'', so we had to slow down. We knew whatever we did was gonna be compared to that album, and I remember we actually discussed slowing down. It was weird—we’ve never done that on an album, before or since."<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/>

1988's '']'' received mixed responses from both fans and critics, although it was Slayer's most commercially successful release at the time, debuting at #57 on the ],<ref name="Billboard">{{cite web
|title=Artist Chart History
|publisher=Billboard.com
|url=http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/retrieve_chart_history.do?model.chartFormatGroupName=Albums&model.vnuArtistId=5692&model.vnuAlbumId=789249
|accessdate=2007-03-25}}</ref> and the second album to receive gold certification in the United States.<ref name="RIAA">{{cite web
|title=Recording Industry Association of America Gold & Platinum Searchable Database|publisher=]|url=http://www.riaa.com/gp/database/default.asp|accessdate=2007-03-24}}</ref> Press response to the album was mixed, with '']'' citing the album as "disturbing and powerful",<ref name="South of Heaven">{{cite web|title=South of Heaven|author=Henderson, Alex |publisher=Allmusicguide.com|url=http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:oaq67uy0h0jf|accessdate=2006-12-13}}</ref> and '']'' calling it "genuinely offensive satanic drivel".<ref name="Slayer - Album Reviews">{{cite web|title=Slayer - Album Reviews|author=Neely, Kim|publisher=]|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/artists/slayer/albums/album/128851/review/5943269/south_of_heaven|accessdate=2006-11-29}}</ref>
King says "that album was my most lackluster performance," although Araya called it a "late bloomer" which eventually grew on people.<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/>

===''Seasons in the Abyss'' (1990&ndash;1993)===
Slayer returned to the studio with co-producer ] in 1989, to record their fifth studio album. Following the backlash created by ''South of Heaven'', Slayer returned to the "pounding speed of ''Reign in Blood''", while retaining their new found ] sense.<ref name="AMGSeasons">{{cite web
|title=Season in the Abyss AMG album review
|author=Huey, Steve
|publisher=All Music Guide
|date=
|url=http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:obkzu3q5an5k
|accessdate=2006-12-13}}</ref> '']'', released in October 1990, was the first Slayer album to be released under Rubin's new ] label, as he parted ways with Def Jam owner ] over creative differences. The album debuted at #44 on the Billboard 200,<ref name="Billboard" /> and was certified gold in 1992.<ref name="RIAA"/> The ], spawned Slayer's first music video, which was filmed in front of the ] in Egypt prior to the ].

Slayer returned as a live act in September 1990 to co-headline the European ''Clash of the Titans'' tour with ], ], and ]. With the popularity of American thrash at its peak, the tour was extended to the US beginning in May 1991, with Megadeth, ] and opening act ]. The band released a double live album, '']'' in 1991, to celebrate ten years. The compilation debuted at #55 on the Billboard 200.<ref name="Billboard"/>

In May 1992, Lombardo quit the band due to conflicts with other members, as well as arguments over his wish to bring his wife on tour.<ref name="Meet the new Slayer, same as the old Slayer'l">{{cite web|title=Meet the new Slayer, same as the old Slayer|author=Patrizio, Andy|publisher= ]|date=]|url=http://au.music.ign.com/articles/725/725459p1.html|accessdate =2006-12-01}}</ref> Lombardo formed his own band ], with ] guitarist ],<ref name="Waldemar Sorychta interview">{{cite web|title = Waldemar Sorychta interview| publisher=antenna.nu|url=http://www.antenna.nu/gripinc/interview1.php|accessdate =2006-01-10}}</ref> and Slayer recruited former ] drummer ] to fill his place.
Slayer made its debut appearance with Bostaph at the 1992 ] festival at ]. Bostaph's first studio effort was a medley of three ] songs, "War", "UK '82", and "Disorder", with rapper ], for the '']'' movie soundtrack in 1993.<ref name="Legendary rapper and longtime metal advocate moves on with the Body Count">{{cite web
|title=Legendary rapper and longtime metal advocate moves on with the Body Count
|author=Bennett, J
|publisher=Decibelmagazine.com
|date=
|url=http://www.decibelmagazine.com/features_detail.aspx?id=4908
|accessdate=2007-03-27}}</ref>

===''Divine Intervention'' (1994&ndash;1995)===
In 1994 Slayer released '']'', the band's first record with drummer Bostaph. The record became the band's highest charting at that time, debuting at #8 on the Billboard 200.<ref name="Billboard" /> The album featured songs boasting about ], an architect of the Holocaust, ], "213" his apartment number where he murdered, raped, and tortured seventeen victims. Other themes included murder, the evils of church, and the lengths to which governments will go to wield power, Araya's interest in serial killers inspired much of the lyrical content.<ref name="Live Chat with Tom Araya of Slayer"/><ref name="Divine Intervention - Slayer">{{cite web
|title=Divine Intervention - Slayer
|author=Henderson, Alex
|publisher=All Music Guide
|url=http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:n7lvadsky8w6
|accessdate=2007-06-21}}</ref>
{{Sound sample box align left|Music sample:}}
{{Listen
|filename= Slayer_SS3_clip.ogg
|title="SS-3" (1994)
|description=SS-3 is about Reinhard Heydrich, an architect of the Holocaust. SS-3 refers to the license plate number of the car he was killed in.
|format=]}}
{{sample box end}}
Slayer geared up for a world tour in 1995, with openers ] and ]. A video of concert footage, '']'' was released, featuring a joint ] of ] "Witching Hour" with Machine Head. Relations between Slayer and Machine Head have since badly deteriorated.<ref name="Machine head diary, 2004">{{cite web|title=Machine head diary, 2004|author=]|publisher=Machinehead1.com|date=]|url= http://www.machinehead1.com/diary_2004.html|accessdate=2006-11-28}}</ref> Following the tour, Slayer were billed fourth at the 1995 ] festival, headlined by ].

===''Undisputed Attitude'' (1996&ndash;1997)===
In 1996, '']'', an album of ] ], was released. The band covered songs by ], ], ], ], ], ] and ]. The album featured three original tracks, "Gemini", "Can't Stand You", "Ddamm" written by Hanneman in 1984–1985 for a side project entitled "Pap Smear". Bostaph left Slayer shortly after the album's release to work on his own project, The Truth about Seafood. With Bostaph's departure, Slayer recruited ] drummer ], and headlined the 1996 Ozzfest alongside ], ], ], ], and ]. Dette was fired after a year, due to a fallout with band members; Bostaph returned to continue the tour.<ref name="Jon Dette has left Slayer and is being replaced by Paul Bostaph!">{{cite web|title = Jon Dette has left Slayer and is being replaced by Paul Bostaph!|author=Hellqvist, Janek|publisher=Slaytanic.com|date=]|url = http://www.slaytanic.com/news.html|accessdate=2006-12-10}}</ref>

A lawsuit was brought against the band in 1996, by the parents of ], who accused the band of encouraging their daughter's murderers through their lyrics.<ref name="The Elyse Marie Pahler Foundation, In Memory of Our Loving Daughter"/> Elyse was drugged, strangled, stabbed, trampled on, and raped as a ] to the devil by three fans of the band.<ref name="The Elyse Marie Pahler Foundation, In Memory of Our Loving Daughter"/> The case was unsealed by the court on ], ], stating Slayer and related business markets distribute harmful products to teens, encouraging violent acts through their lyrics,<ref name="The Elyse Marie Pahler Foundation, In Memory of Our Loving Daughter">{{cite web|title = The Elyse Marie Pahler Foundation, In Memory of Our Loving Daughter|publisher=elysemarie.org|url=http://www.elysemarie.org/|accessdate=2006-12-10}}</ref> and "none of the vicious crimes committed against Elyse Marie Pahler would have occurred without the intentional marketing strategy of the death-metal band Slayer".<ref name="Slayer named in lawsuit">{{cite web|title=Slayer named in lawsuit|publisher=]|date =]|url=http://www.fradical.com/slayer_named_in_lawsuit.htm|accessdate=2006-12-29}}</ref> The lawsuit was dismissed in 2001, for multiple reasons including "principles of free speech, lack of a duty and lack of foreseeability".<ref name="Slayer: Out Of The Dock"/> A second lawsuit was filed by the parents, an amended complaint for damages against Slayer, their label, and other industry and label entities. The lawsuit was dismissed; Judge E. Jeffrey Burke stated "I do not consider Slayer's music obscene, indecent or harmful to minors."<ref name="Slayer: Out Of The Dock">{{cite web|title=Slayer: Out Of The Dock|publisher=]|date=]|url=http://www.metalhammer.co.uk/news/article/?id=39564|accessdate=2006-10-15}}</ref>

===''Diabolus in Musica'' (1998&ndash;2000)===
'']'' (Latin for "The Devil in Music")<ref name="Diabolus in Musica, The Tritone of Musick">{{cite web|title = Diabolus in Musica, The Tritone of Musick|author=Cherubim, David|publisher = Thelemicmusick.net|url= http://thelemicmusick.net/davidcherubim/tritone.htm|accessdate=2006-11-29}}</ref> was released in 1998, and debuted at #31 on the Billboard 200, selling over 46,000 copies.<ref name="SLAYER: 'Christ Illusion' Lands At No. 5 On BILLBOARD Chart!">{{cite web|title = Slayer: 'Christ Illusion' lands at No. 5 on Billboard chart!|publisher = Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url= http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=56559|accessdate=2006-01-10}}</ref>
The album received a mixed critical reception and was criticized for adopting characteristics of ] music such as tuned down guitars, murky chord structures, and churning beats. ''Blabbermouth.net'' reviewer Borijov Krgin described the album as "a feeble attempt at incorporating updated elements into the group's sound, the presence of which elevated the band's efforts somewhat and offered hope that Slayer could refrain from endlessly rehashing their previous material for their future output.",<ref name="Blabbermouth Review">{{cite web
|title= SLAYER God Hates Us All (American) |author=Krgin, Borivoj |publisher=Blabbermouth.net
|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/showreview.aspx?reviewID=50|accessdate=2007-05-29}}</ref> while '']'''s Ben Ratliff had similair sentiments by saying "eight of the 11 songs on ''Diabolus in Musica,'' a few of which were played at the show, are in the same gray key".<ref name="NYTReview">{{cite news | last = Ratliff| first = Ben| title =New CD's| work =| pages =| publisher = New York Times | date = 1998-06-22 | url =|accessdate=}}</ref> However, Adrien Begrand of '']'' said the songs "Bitter Peace", "Death's Head", and "Stain of Mind"; "blow away anything that young pretenders like ] have put out."<ref name="The Devil in Music">{{cite web|title =The Devil in Music| author = Begrand, Adrien| publisher= Popmatters.com|date=2004-01-23|url=http://www.popmatters.com/music/reviews/s/slayer-soundtrack.shtml|accessdate=2007-05-29}}</ref>

The album was the band's first with ], as featured on the lead track, "Bitter Peace",({{audio| Slayer_Bitter_Peace.ogg|sample}}) making use of the musical interval referred to in the Middle Ages as the ] or Devil's scale.<ref name="The Devil's Music">{{cite web|title=The Devil's Music|author=Rohrer, Finlo|publisher=]|date=]|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/4952646.stm|accessdate=2006-01-22}}</ref> Slayer teamed up with ] group ] to record a song for the '']'' soundtrack titled "No Remorse (I Wanna Die)". The band later paid tribute to ] by recording a cover of "Hand of Doom" for the second of two tribute albums, entitled ]. A world tour followed to support the new album, with Slayer making an appearance at the United Kingdom ] alongside ], ], ], ], ], ], and ].

===''God Hates Us All'' (2001&ndash;2005)===
]
After delays regarding remixing and artwork,<ref name="Slayer Nails Down Release Date For 'God'">{{cite web|title=Slayer Nails Down Release Date For 'God'|author=Weiss, Neal|publisher=]|date=]|url=http://music.yahoo.com/read/news/12056099|accessdate =2006-12-26}}</ref> including slip covers created to cover the original artwork as it was deemed "too graphic", '']'' was released on ], ]. The band received its first ] nomination for the lead track "Disciple", although the Grammy was awarded to ], for "Schism".<ref name=" 44th Grammy Awards - 2002">{{cite web|title=44th Grammy Awards - 2002|publisher=Rockonthenet.com|date=]|url =http://www.rockonthenet.com/archive/2002/grammys.htm|accessdate=2006-11-29}}</ref>
Promotional material announcing the album title and release drew an unintended connection with the ].

The attacks jeopardized the 2001 European tour ''Tattoo the Planet'' originally set to feature ], ], ] and ]. Dates were canceled or postponed due to flight restrictions, with a majority of bands deciding to withdraw, leaving Slayer and Static X remaining for the European leg of the tour.<ref name="Tattoo The Planet Officially Postponed">{{cite web|title=Tattoo The Planet officially postponed|publisher=]|date=]|url=http://www.kerrang.com/nav?page=kerrang.reviews.artist.news&fixture_news=111046&resource=111046&fixture_artist=149178|accessdate=2006-11-29}}</ref>
Pantera, Vision of Disorder and Biohazard were replaced by ] and other bands dependent on location; ], ], ], ], and ]. Drummer Bostaph left Slayer before Christmas in 2001, due to a chronic elbow injury which would hinder his ability to play.<ref name=Slayer: Lombardo's back!>{{cite web|title=Slayer: Lombardo's back!|publisher = ]|date=]|url=http://www.kerrang.com/nav?page=kerrang.reviews.artist.news&fixture_news=111297&resource=111297&fixture_artist=149178|accessdate=2006-12-02}}</ref> Slayer's "God Hates Us All" tour was unfinished so King contacted original drummer Lombardo, and asked if he would like to finish the remainder of the tour. Lombardo accepted the offer, and stayed as a permanent member.<ref name=Slayer: Lombardo's back!/>

Slayer toured playing '']'' in its entirety throughout the fall of 2003, under the tour banner "Still Reigning". Their playing of the final song "]" culminated with the band drenched in a rain of fake blood. Live footage of this was recorded at the Augusta Civic Center in ], on ], ] and released on the 2004 DVD '']''. The band also released '']'' and a box set, '']'' featuring rarities, live CD and DVD performances and various Slayer paraphernalia.

From 2002 to 2004 the band performed over 250 tour dates, headlining major music festivals including H82k2, Summer tour, ], the ] and a European tour with ]. While preparing for the Download Festival in England, ] drummer ] was rushed to hospital with a mysterious illness, and was unable to perform.<ref name="Metallica's Lars Ulrich Hospitalized In Switzerland, Misses Show"/> Metallica vocalist ] searched for volunteers at the last minute to replace Ulrich; Lombardo and Slipknot drummer ] volunteered, with Lombardo performing the songs "]" and "]".<ref name="Metallica's Lars Ulrich Hospitalized In Switzerland, Misses Show">{{cite web|title=Metallica's Lars Ulrich Hospitalized In Switzerland, Misses Show|publisher=]|date=]|url=http://music.yahoo.com/read/news/12054238|accessdate=2006-12-09}}</ref>

===''Christ Illusion'' (2006&ndash;present)===
The album '']'' was originally scheduled for release on ], ], and would be the first album with original drummer Lombardo since 1990's ''Seasons in the Abyss''.<ref name="KingUltimateGuitar">{{cite web|title=Slayer's Kerry King: The Art Of Writing Songs That Nobody Else Can Write|author=Matera, Joe|publisher=UltimateGuitar.com|date=]|url=http://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/interviews/slayers_kerry_king_the_art_of_writing_songs_that_nobody_else_can_write.html?200608041041|accessdate=2007-02-22}}</ref>. However, the band decided to delay the release of the record as they did not want to be among the many, according to King, "half-ass, stupid fucking loser bands" releasing records on June 6,<ref name="SLAYER Recount VENOM 'Pissing' Incident">{{cite web|title=Slayer Recount Venom 'Pissing' incident|publisher=Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=54174|accessdate=2006-01-16}}</ref> although '']'' reported the idea was thwarted because the band failed to secure sufficient studio recording time.<ref name="Petrecca">{{cite web
| title = Marketers hope 666 will be their lucky number
| author = Petrecca, Laura
| publisher = USAToday.com
| date = ]
| url = http://www.usatoday.com/money/media/2006-05-31-omen-marketing-usat_x.htm
| accessdate = 2007-02-22 }}</ref> Instead, Slayer released '']'' on June 6 as a limited-edition ]. ''Eternal Pyre'' featured the song "Cult", a live performance of "War Ensemble" in Germany, video footage of the band recording "Cult", and a five minute video of a Slayer fan carving the band's name onto his forearm. Five thousand copies were released and sold exclusively through ] chain stores, and sold out within hours of release.<ref name="'Eternal Pyre">{{cite web|title=Eternal Pyre|publisher = Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url= http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=53810|accessdate=2006-12-01}}</ref> On June 30, ] released a 7" vinyl picture disc version limited to a thousand copies.<ref name="SLAYER: 'Eternal Pyre' 7 Vinyl Picture-Disc Single To Be Released This Month">{{cite web
| title = SLAYER: 'Eternal Pyre' 7" Vinyl Picture-Disc Single To Be Released This Month
| author =
| publisher = Blabbermouth.net
| date = ]
| url = http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=53810
| accessdate = 2007-02-15 }}</ref>

''Christ Illusion'' was released on ], ], and debuted at #5 on the ], selling over 62,000 copies in its first week.<ref name="Slayer's 'Christ Illusion' Is Band's Highest-Ever Billboard Chart Debut Entering at #5">{{cite web|title=Slayer's "Christ Illusion" Is Band's Highest-Ever Billboard Chart Debut Entering at #5|publisher=]|date=]|url=http://biz.yahoo.com/iw/060816/0154755.html|accessdate=2006-11-29}}</ref> The album became Slayer's highest charting, improving on its previous highest charting album, ''Divine Intervention'', which had debuted at #8. However, despite its high positioning, the album dropped to #44 in the following week.<ref name="Metal, Rock and Alternative Music Doing Well In Billboard">{{cite web|title=Metal, Rock and Alternative Music Doing Well In Billboard|publisher=Metalunderground.com|date=]|url=http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=21264|accessdate=2006-11-25}}</ref> Three weeks after the album's release Slayer were inducted into the ] Hall of Fame for their influence to the heavy metal scene.<ref name="Lostprophets scoop rock honours">{{cite web|title= Lostprophets scoop rock honours|publisher=]|date=]|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/5282780.stm|accessdate=2006-12-10}}</ref>

]
A worldwide tour dubbed '']'', was undertaken to support the new record. The tour was originally set to launch on June 6, but was postponed to June 10, as Araya had to undergo ] surgery.<ref name="SLAYER Frontman Undergoes Gallbladder Surgery, Band Reschedule Early 'Unholy Alliance' Dates">{{cite web|title = Slayer frontman undergoes gallbladder surgery, Band Reschedule Early 'Unholy Alliance' Dates
|publisher=Blabbermouth.net
|date=]
|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=52111
|accessdate=2006-12-09}}</ref> ], ], ], ], and ], Which features Araya's brother ], were supporting Slayer.<ref name="Slayer's 'Unholy Alliance' tour grows">{{cite web|title = Slayer's 'Unholy Alliance' tour grows|author =Zahlaway, Jon |publisher =Livedaily.com|date=]|url=http://www.livedaily.com/news/Slayers_Unholy_Alliance_tour_grows-9852.html?t=1|accessdate=2006-11-29}}</ref> The tour made its way through America and Europe and the bands who participated, apart from Thine Eyes Bleed, reunited to perform at ] Loud Park Festival on ], ].<ref name="Loud Park 2006 Unholy Alliance Stage">{{cite web|title=Loud Park 2006 Unholy Alliance Stage|publisher=Loudpark.com|date=]|url=http://www.loudpark.com/artist.html|accessdate=2006-12-24}}</ref>

The video for the album's first single, "]", was released on ], ].<ref name="Eyes_of_the_Insane">{{cite web|title = Slayer release video for "Eyes Of the Insane"|publisher=Punknews.org|date=]|url=http://www.punknews.org/article/20607|accessdate=2006-12-02}}</ref> The track was featured on the ] soundtrack, and won a Grammy-award for "]" at the 49th Grammy Awards, although the band were unable to attend due to touring obligations.<ref name="SLAYER Wins GRAMMY In 'Best Metal Performance' Category ">{{cite web|title =Slayer wins Grammy in 'Best Metal Performance' Category|publisher=Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=66845|accessdate=2007-02-12}}</ref> A week later, the band visited the 52nd Services Squadron located on the Spangdahlem U.S. Air Force Base in ] to meet and play a show. This was the first visit ever to a military base for the band.<ref name="SLAYER To Visit U.S. Troops; U.S">{{cite web|title=Slayer To Visit U.S. Troops; U.S|publisher=Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=61345|accessdate=2006-11-29}}</ref> The band made its first ] appearance on the show ] on January 19, playing the song "Eyes of the Insane", and four additional songs for fans after the show, although footage from "]" was cut due to its controversial lyrical themes.<ref name="SLAYER On 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!': 'Eyes Of The Insane' Performance Posted Online">{{cite web
|title= Slayer on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!': 'Eyes Of The Insane' performance posted online|publisher= Blabbermouth.net|date=]
|url= http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=65652
|accessdate= 2007-02-28}}</ref> Slayer toured Australia and New Zealand in April with Mastodon, and appeared at the ] and ].<ref name="SLAYER, MARILYN MANSON, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE Confirmed For U.K.'s DOWNLOAD Festival">{{cite web|title = Slayer, Marilyn Manson, Killswitch Engage confirmed For U.K.'s Download Festival|publisher=Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=66979|accessdate=2007-02-16}}</ref> The band planned to attend the Heineken Jammin' Festival,<ref name="IRON MAIDEN, SLAYER, AEROSMITH To Perform At Italy's HEINEKEN JAMMIN' FESTIVAL">{{cite web|title=Iron Maiden, Slayer, Aerosmith to perform at Italy's Heineken Jammin' Festival|publisher=Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=66691|accessdate =2007-02-16}}</ref> Switzerland's Greenfield Festival, and a summer tour with ].<ref name="SMASHING PUMPKINS, MARILYN MANSON, SLAYER Confirmed For Switzerland's GREENFIELD FESTIVAL">{{cite web|title=Smashing Pumpkins, Marilyn Manson, Slayer Confirmed For Switzerland's Greenfield Festival|publisher=Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=66565|accessdate =2007-02-16}}</ref> In May 2007, Blabbermouth.net announced that a 'first English language Slayer biography' was being written by British author ], although no release date was announced.<ref name="Exclusive: First English-Language SLAYER Biography On The Way">{{cite web
|title=Exclusive: First English-Language Slayer Biography On The Way
|author=
|publisher=Blabbermouth.net
|date=]
|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=73165
|accessdate=2007-06-13}}</ref>

==Influence==
Slayer is credited as one of the “Big four” thrash metal bands along with ], ] and ], all of which rose to fame in the early 1980s.<ref name="All Music Guide Biography of Slayer"/> These four bands have had a great influence on ] and ] scenes. "Their downtuned rhythms, infectious guitar licks, graphically violent lyrics and grisly artwork set the standard for dozens of emerging thrash bands." and "Slayer's music was directly responsible for the rise of death metal" states ], ranking Slayer as the sixth "greatest metal band of all time,"<ref name="Why They Rule - #6 Slayer">{{cite web|title=Why They Rule - #6 Slayer|publisher=]|url=http://www.mtv.com/bands/m/metal/greatest_metal_bands/071406/index7.jhtml|accessdate =2006-01-18}}</ref> also ranking number 50 on ]'s "100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock".<ref name="The Greatest: 100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock">{{cite web|title=The Greatest: 100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock|publisher=VH1.com|url=http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/the_greatest/62186/episode_wildcard.jhtml?wildcard=/shows/dynamic/includes/wildcards/the_greatest/hardrock_list_full.jhtml&event_id=862767&start=41|accessdate=2007-03-19}}</ref>
Hanneman and King ranked number 10 in ]'s "100 greatest metal guitarists of all time" in 2004,<ref name="GUITAR WORLD's 100 Greatest Heavy Metal Guitarists Of All Time">{{cite web
| title = Guitar World's 100 Greatest Heavy Metal Guitarists Of All Time|publisher=Blabbermouth.net|date=]| url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=18446| accessdate=2006-01-18}}</ref> and were voted "Best Guitarist/Guitar Team" in ] reader's poll. Lombardo was also voted "Best Drummer" and the band entered the top five in the categories "Best Band Ever," "Best Live Band," "Album of the Year" (for ''Christ Illusion''), and "Band of the Year."<ref name="The fans have spoken: Slayer comes out on top in readers' polls">{{cite web
|title=The fans have spoken: Slayer comes out on top in readers' polls
|author=
|publisher=Blabbermouth.net
|date=]
|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=68001
|accessdate=2007-03-16}}</ref>

The band's 1986 release, '']'' has been an influence to extreme and thrash metal bands since its release. The album was hailed the "heaviest album of all time" by ''] Magazine'',<ref name="Kerrang! Hall Of Fame"/> a "genre-definer" by '']'',<ref name="Slayer">{{cite web|title=Slayer|author=Jarvis, Clay|publisher=]|date=]|url=http://www.stylusmagazine.com/reviews/slayer/reign-in-blood.htm|accessdate=2006-01-19}}</ref> and a "stone-cold classic upon its release" by '']''.<ref name="Reign in Blood">{{cite web|title=Reign in Blood|author=Huey, Steve|publisher=All Music Guide|url=http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:oaq67ub0h0jf|accessdate=2006-12-01}}</ref> In 2006 it was named the best metal album of the last 20 years by '']''.<ref name="Golden Gods Awards Winners">{{cite web|title=Golden Gods Awards Winners|publisher=]|date=]|url=http://www.metalhammer.co.uk/news/article/?id=44410|accessdate=2007-01-10}}</ref> ], former member of ] was blown away by Dave's performance on the album '']'',<ref name="A Conversation With Richard Christy">{{cite web|title= A Conversation With Richard Christy|author= Bowar, Chad|publisher= about.com|url=http://heavymetal.about.com/od/interviews/a/richardchristy_3.htm
|accessdate=2007-02-22}}</ref> as was ] drummer ].<ref name="Interview With Paul Mazurkiewicz of Cannibal Corpse">{{cite web|title=Interview With Paul Mazurkiewicz of Cannibal Corpse|author=L. Wilson, David|publisher=Metal-Rules.com|date=]|url=http://www.metal-rules.com/interviews/cannibal.htm
|accessdate=2007-02-22}}</ref>

Drummer Lombardo has been an influence on many modern metal drummers including ] of ],<ref name="Fear Factory screams through the U.S. on Machines At War Tour">{{cite web|title=Fear Factory screams through the U.S. on Machines At War Tour|author= Wolf, DC |publisher= Tuftsdaily.com|date=]|url= http://media.www.tuftsdaily.com/media/storage/paper856/news/2006/11/16/Weekender/Weekender.Interview.Fear.Factory-2463687.shtml
|accessdate= 2007-02-22}}</ref> ] of ],<ref name="MORBID ANGEL interview">{{cite web|title= MORBID ANGEL interview|author= Cortez, Rick |publisher=Voicesfromthedarkside.de |url= http://www.voicesfromthedarkside.de/|accessdate= 2007-02-22}}</ref> former ] drummer ],<ref name=" INTERVIEW WITH ADRIAN ERLANDSSON">{{cite web|title= INTERVIEW WITH ADRIAN ERLANDSSON|author=Tobin, Dan|publisher= Earache.com|url= http://www.earache.com/WickedWorld/interview/cradle_of_filth/cradle_of_filth.html
|accessdate=2007-02-22}}</ref> and ] drummer ].<ref name="Krisiun">{{cite web|title= Krisiun|author= German, Eric|publisher=Metalupdate.com|url=http://www.metalupdate.com/interviewkrisiun.html|accessdate= 2007-02-22}}</ref> Patrick Grün of ]'s inspiration to play drums came from Lombardo,<ref name="Caliban - Living The Dream">{{cite web|title=Caliban - Living The Dream|author=Day, Tom|publisher=MusicOHM.com|url=http://www.musicomh.com/interviews/caliban.htm|accessdate=2007-02-22}}</ref> with ] of ] inspired by Lombardo's double bass, utilizing double bass when starting his own music career.<ref name=" Proving Speed, Power, And Musicality Can Go Hand In Hand">{{cite web|title= Proving Speed, Power, And Musicality Can Go Hand In Hand|author= Haid, Mark |publisher= Moderndrummer.com|url= http://www.moderndrummer.com/updatefull/200001128|accessdate= 2007-02-23}}</ref>

==Style==
Early works were praised for their "breakneck speed and instrumental prowess," combining the structure of ] tempos and ] the band released fast, aggressive material.<ref name="All Music Guide Biography of Slayer"/> The album ''Reign in Blood'' is the band's fastest, performed at an average of 250 ].<ref name="Andrew Haug speaks with Dave Lombardo from Slayer">{{cite web
|title=Andrew Haug speaks with Dave Lombardo from Slayer
|author=Haug, Andrew
|publisher=Abc.net.au
|date=]
|url=http://www.abc.net.au/triplej/racket/listen/audio_alpha_S.htm
|accessdate=2007-02-09}}</ref> The album '']'' was the band's first with ], '']'' the first with drop B tuning - utilizing ]s.<ref name="SlayerBIOGRAPHY">{{cite web|title=Slayer - BIOGRAPHY|publisher=hardcoresounds.net|url=http://www.hardcoresounds.net/modules.php?name=Band_List&file=viewer&func=356|accessdate=2006-01-19}}</ref> '']'' cited the album as "abandoning the extravagancies and accessibility of their late-'80s/early-'90s work and returning to perfect the raw approach",<ref name="Slayer - God Hates us all">{{cite web|title=Slayer - God Hates us all|author=Birchmeier, Jason|publisher=]|url=http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:4oj4eaw54xs7|accessdate=2006-01-18}}</ref> with some fans labeling it ].<ref name=" PAUL BOSTAPH of Exodus, ex-Slayer">{{cite web |title= PAUL BOSTAPH of Exodus, ex-Slayer |author=Syrjälä, Marko |publisher=Metal-Rules.com |date=] |url=http://www.metal-rules.com/zine/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=797&Itemid=60
|accessdate=2007-03-07}}</ref>

Hanneman’s and King’s dual ] have been called "wildly chaotic,"<ref name="All Music Guide Biography of Slayer"/> and "twisted genius."<ref name="Slayer - Reign in Blood">{{cite web|title=Slayer - Reign in Blood|author=Horatio|publisher=Kickedintheface.com|url=http://www.kickedintheface.com/reviews/Slayer-Reign_In_Blood.htm|accessdate=2006-01-18}}</ref> Drummer Lombardo uses two bass drums, instead of the ] which is used on a single bass drum. Lombardo's speed and aggression earned him the title of the “godfather of double bass” by Drummerworld.<ref name="Drummerworld - Dave Lombardo">{{cite web|title=Drummerworld - Dave Lombardo|publisher=Drummerworld.com|url=http://www.drummerworld.com/drummers/Dave_Lombardo.html|accessdate =2007-01-30}}</ref> Lombardo states his reasons for using two bass drums: "When you hit the bass drum the head is still resonating. When you hit it in the same place right after that you kinda get a "slapback" from the bass drum head hitting the other pedal. You're not letting them breathe." When playing the double bass Lombardo uses the "heel-up" technique, angling his pedals.<ref>Dave Lombardo Modern Drummer Festival 2000</ref>

==Writing lyrics and music==
Hanneman, King and Araya contribute to the band's lyrics, and Lombardo, King and Hanneman create the music.<ref name="Knac.com interview with Jeff Hanneman"/> Araya's first contribution to lyrical content was 1988's ''South of Heaven'', forming a lyric writing partnership with Hanneman, which can overshadow the creative input of King.<ref name="An exclusive oral history of Slayer"/> Hanneman states writing lyrics and music is a "free for all"; "It’s all just whoever comes up with what. Sometimes I’ll be more on a roll and I’ll have more stuff, same with Kerry — it’s whoever's hot, really. Anybody can write anything; if it’s good we use it, if not we don’t."<ref name="Knac.com interview with Jeff Hanneman">{{cite web|title=Knac.com interview with Jeff Hanneman|author=Davis, Brian|publisher=Knac.com|url=http://www.knac.com/article.asp?ArticleID=3153|accessdate =2006-12-13}}</ref>

When writing new material the band writes the music before incorporating lyrics. King or Hanneman will use a ] and ] to show band members the riff they have created, and to get their opinion. Either King or Hanneman and Lombardo will mention if any alterations can be made. The band will play the riff to get the basic song structure, and figure out where the lyrics and solos will be placed.<ref name="Knac.com interview with Jeff Hanneman"/>

==Feuds==
], Araya and King have an ongoing feud with ] of ]. It began when Mustaine attempted to convince King to stay with Megadeth rather than the "lame spikes" and "eyeliner" with the "poseurs" in 1984.<ref name="Dave Mustaine Slamming Slayer, Metallica, Kirk Hammett In 1984 Interview Surfaces!">{{cite web|title=Dave Mustaine Slamming Slayer, Metallica, Kirk Hammett In 1984 Interview Surfaces!|publisher=Pitriff.com|date=]|url= http://www.pitriff.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=1348&mode=thread&order=0&thold=0|accessdate=2006-01-18}}</ref> Mustaine proceeded to tell Araya he liked it when he "sucked his dick" at the 1991 "Clash of the Titans" tour.<ref name="Clash of the Titans">{{cite web|title = Clash of the Titans|author = Kuipers, Dean|publisher = Rockmetal|url=http://megadeth.rockmetal.art.pl/articles_spin1991.html|accessdate=2006-01-18}}</ref> Araya rebutted calling him a “]” on stage.<ref name="Clash of the Titans"/> Since their falling out at the tour, King lashed out at Mustaine in several interviews stating he is a "cocksucker",<ref name="cocksucker"/> "everybody hates him",<ref name="Exclusive! Interview With Slayer Guitarist Kerry King ">{{cite web|title=Exclusive! Interview With Slayer Guitarist Kerry King|author=Davis, Brian|publisher=KNAC.com|date=]|url=http://www.knac.com/article.asp?ArticleID=3346|accessdate =2006-01-18}}</ref> and he is a "dictator".<ref name="SLAYER's KERRY KING: DAVE MUSTAINE Is A Dictator">{{cite web|title = Slayer's Kerry King: Dave Mustaine is a dictator|publisher=Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=24565|accessdate=2006-01-10}}</ref>
Recently in ] ''Dear Guitar Hero'', King "admires him to this day" but as a guitarist, even though he considers Mustaine as a "hypocrite".<ref name="Dear Guitar Hero: Kerry King">{{cite web|title = "Dear Guitar Hero: Kerry King">|publisher=]|date=]|url=http://www.guitarworld.com/article/dear_guitar_hero_kerry_king|accessdate=2007-06-08}}</ref>

Relations between ] and Slayer deteriorated when King labeled Machine Head as "sell-outs" after the release of its 2001 album ]. King continued to criticize the band stating "They're responsible for ]", "they fooled me into thinking they're metal", "'they have no integrity left."<ref name="MACHINE HEAD's FLYNN: 'I'm Disappointed In SLAYER's KERRY KING">{{cite web|title=Machine Head's Flynn: 'I'm Disappointed In Slayer's Kerry King|publisher=Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url =http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=10389|accessdate=2006-12-10}}</ref> Machine Head front man ] stated King was not provoked, and these comments had come from nowhere.<ref name="MACHINE HEAD's FLYNN: 'I'm Disappointed In SLAYER's KERRY KING"/> Flynn, who once idolized King rebutted “Oh, Mr. ] video has so much fuckin' integrity now!? Shit?!” after King appeared in Sum 41's music video "]",<ref name="MACHINE HEAD's FLYNN: 'I'm Disappointed In SLAYER's KERRY KING"/> also stating "King's eaten so many cheeseburgers his brain's starting to clog up."<ref name="KERRY KING's Eaten So Many Cheeseburgers">{{cite web|title = Kerry King's eaten so many cheeseburgers his brain's starting to clog up|publisher=Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=4275|accessdate=2006-01-22}}</ref> However, on June 16, 2007 Flynn reported that the two sorted out their 'beef' at the Metal Hammer Awards, at which Slayer won an award for 'Metal Icon'.<ref name="Robb Flynn diary entry">{{cite web
|title=Robb Flynn diary entry
|author=Flyyn, Robb
|publisher=Machinehead1.com
|date=]
|url=http://www.machinehead1.com/diary.html
|accessdate=2007-06-18}}</ref>

==Controversy==
]
Slayer has been accused of holding ] sympathies, due to the band's eagle logo bearing resemblance to the ], ] stickers on guitars, and the lyrics of "]".<ref name="Kerry King: Maniac. Guitar Legend. Botanist?">{{cite web|title=Kerry King: Maniac. Guitar Legend. Botanist?|author = Hess, Mike|publisher=Nighttimes.com|date=]|url=http://www.nighttimes.com/nt_main.asp?aID=388|accessdate=2006-12-10}}</ref> The lyrics of "Angel of Death" were inspired by the acts of ],<ref name="Knac.com interview with Jeff Hanneman">{{cite web|title=Interview with Slayer Guitarist Jeff Hanneman|author=Steffens, Charlie|publisher=Knac.com|date=]|url=http://www.knac.com/article.asp?ArticleID=4653|accessdate=2006-12-10}}</ref> the doctor who conducted ] on Jewish and Roma prisoners during ] at the ], and was dubbed the "Angel of Death" by inmates.<ref name="moreorless : heroes & killers of the 20th century - Josef Mengele">{{cite web|title=moreorless : heroes & killers of the 20th century - Josef Mengele|publisher=Moreorless.com|date=]|url=http://www.moreorless.au.com/killers/mengele.html|accessdate=2006-12-01}}</ref> Throughout their career, the band members were asked about these accusations, and have stated numerous times they do not condone Nazism, and are merely interested in the subject.<ref name="Slayer’s Tom Araya on Satanism, serial killers and his lovable kids">{{cite web|title=Slayers Tom Araya on Satanism, serial killers and his lovable kids|author=Cummins, Johnson|publisher=MontrealMirror.com|url=http://www.montrealmirror.com/ARCHIVES/2002/012402/music1.html|accessdate=2006-12-02}}</ref>

Slayer's cover of ] "Guilty Of Being White" raised questions about a possible message of ] in the band's music. The controversy surrounding the cover involved the changing of the refrain "guilty of being white" to "guilty of being right", at the song's ending. This incensed Minor Threat frontman ], who stated "that is so offensive to me".<ref>Blush, Steven ''American Hardcore: A Tribal History by Steven Blush'' (New York: Feral House, 2001), "Guilty of Being White", in an interview with Ian MacKaye, 30–31.</ref>

In a 2004 interview with Araya, when asked, "did critics realize you were wallowing in parody?", Araya replied, "No. People thought we were serious!...back then you had that ], who literally took everything to heart, when in actuality you're trying to create an image. You're trying to scare people on purpose".<ref name="Westword interview with Tom Araya">{{cite web|title=Westword interview with Tom Araya|author=La Briola, John|publisher=Westword.com|date=]|url=http://www.westword.com/2004-07-22/music/slay-ride/|accessdate=2006-12-07}}</ref> Araya also denied rumors that Slayer members are ], but they find the subject of Satanism interesting and "we are all on this planet to learn and experience".<ref name="Slayer’s Tom Araya on Satanism, serial killers and his lovable kids">{{cite web|title=Slayers Tom Araya on Satanism, serial killers and his lovable kids|author=Cummins, Johnson |publisher=MontrealMirror.com|url=http://www.montrealmirror.com/ARCHIVES/2002/012402/music1.html|accessdate=2006-12-02}}</ref>

]
The song "]" of the album ''Christ Illusion'' sparked controversy among families of the ] victims.<ref name="SLAYER SPARK 9/11 CONTROVERSY">{{cite web|title=Slayer spark 9/11 Controversy|publisher = Contactmusic.com|date=]|url=http://www.contactmusic.com/new/xmlfeed.nsf/mndwebpages/slayer%20spark%20911%20controversy_26_05_2006|accessdate=2006-11-29}}</ref> The song deals with the attack from the perspective of a religious terrorist. The band stated the song is spoken through perspective without being sympathetic to the cause, and supports neither side.<ref name="SLAYER SPARK 9/11 CONTROVERSY"/> Seventeen bus benches promoting the album in ] were deemed offensive by city officials. They felt the Antichrist and skull were inappropriate, and felt the name "Slayer" pertains to a murderer. City officials contacted the band's record label and demanded that the ads be removed.<ref name="Exclusive: City Of Fullerton Demands That SLAYER Bus Benches Be Removed ">{{cite web|title=Exclusive: City Of Fullerton demands that Slayer bus benches be removed|publisher=Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=55902|accessdate=2006-01-17}}</ref> All seventeen benches were removed.<ref name="SLAYER 'Christ Illusion' Bus Benches Removed From Fullerton">{{cite web|title=Slayer 'Christ Illusion' bus benches removed from Fullerton|publisher=Blabbermouth.net|date=]|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=56141|accessdate=2006-01-17}}</ref>

In ], the album was recalled by ] India after protests with ] and ] religious groups due to the nature of the graphic artwork. The album cover depicts ] mutilated, missing arms and an eye, in a sea of blood with severed heads.<ref name="EMI">{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/6039976.stm|title=India bans 'offensive' rock album|date=]|accessdate=2006-10-11|publisher=]}}</ref> On ], ] EMI announced that all stocks had been destroyed,<ref name="EMI" /> noting it had no plans to re-release the record in India in the future.<ref name="EMI" />

==Discography==
{{main|Slayer discography}}
{|
|valign=top|
===Studio albums===
*1983: '']''
*1985: '']''
*1986: '']'' #94 US<ref name="Billboard" />
*1988: '']'' #57 US<ref name="Billboard" />
*1990: '']'' #40 US<ref name="Billboard"/>
*1994: '']'' #8 US<ref name="Billboard" />
*1996: '']'' #34 US<ref name="Billboard" />
*1998: '']'' #31 US<ref name="Billboard" />
*2001: '']'' #28 US<ref name="Billboard" />
*2006: '']'' #5 US<ref name="Billboard" />
|valign=top|

===EPs/Box Sets===
*1984: '']''
*2003: '']''
*2006: '']''

===DVDs/Live CDs===
*1984: '']''
*1991: '']''
*1995: '']''
*2003: '']''
*2004: '']''
|}

==Band members==
===Current members===
*] - bass, lead vocals (1981–present)
*] - guitar (1981–present)
*] - guitar (1981-present)
*] - drums (1981–1986, 1987–1992, 2001–present)

===Former members===
*] - drums (1992–1996, 1997–2001)
*] - drums (1996–1997)
*] - drums (1986–1987)
*] - lead guitar (1992-1994)

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
{{commons|Slayer}}
*
*{{MusicBrainz artist|id=bdacc37b-8633-4bf8-9dd5-4662ee651aec|name=Slayer}}
*{{MySpace-music|Slayer|Slayer}}
*at ]

{{Slayer}}

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Revision as of 20:05, 27 June 2007

For other uses, see Slayer (disambiguation).
Slayer

Slayer is an American thrash metal band founded by guitarists Jeff Hanneman and Kerry King. Slayer rose to fame as a leader of the American thrash metal movement with their 1986 release Reign in Blood, which has been called "the heaviest album of all time".<ref name="Kerrang! Hall Of Fame">{{cite web|title = Kerrang! Hall Of Boobs Fame|author=|publisher=

  1. ^ Huey, Steve. "All Music Guide Biography of Slayer". Allmusicguide.com. Retrieved 2006-12-10.
  2. Cite error: The named reference An exclusive oral history of Slayer was invoked but never defined (see the help page).