After 35 years of touring/recording/kicking ass all over the world, Slayer have made the bold decision to retire following their 2018 world tour. Dates have already circulated as well as the supporting bands which will consist of Anthrax, Testament, Lamb of God and Behemoth.
The reaction was just as explosive as you’d expect it to be. Despite the three and a half decades worth of activity, no one expected to see such an early conclusion to their legendary career.
Many suspect that the recent health issues surrounding singer/bassist Tom Araya could be responsible for this abrupt announcement. However, this information has not been confirmed as of right now.
Regardless what the reason may be, the takeaway from this news should be a celebration of the band’s groundbreaking history.
Born in 1983, the heavy metal scene received a permanent shift after Slayer established themselves as the most evil thrash metal act the world had ever seen. Releasing one classic masterpiece after the next, the quartet was untouchable as their critically acclaimed success rewarded them with widespread approval and a spot in The Big 4.
Their impact changed the standard for metal music going forward and resulted in numerous sub-genres as well as new limits waiting to be tested. Everything would be a lot different if it weren’t for the spawn of these bay area thrashers considering the countless number of people who owe their livelihoods to them for being influenced by the timeless sound of Slayer.
Just to name a few accomplishments, this is THE group that created Reign In Blood, South Of Heaven, and Season In The Abyss. Regarded as among the greatest albums to ever exist, Slayer continued to impress listeners into the 21st century with the remarkable God Hates Us All. It would be a crime to rattle off a list of their albums without mentioning their historic inception: Show No Mercy and Hell Awaits! Two absolutely scorching records that started the dawn of a new era for headbangers around the world.
But the end has finally come.
This is everybody’s last chance to see the thrash legends themselves firsthand one last time. It’ll surely be a memorable tour for both the fans and bands involved, so I encourage everyone to see it if they have the chance.
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