Kerry King Opens Up About Slayer’s Disfunction and New Solo New Project
Legendary Slayer guitarist, Kerry King, in a Rolling Stone interview, discusses his new solo project “From Hell I Rise,” and his dysfunctional relationship with the former members of Slayer.
Slayer’s Legacy:
Formed in 1981 in Huntington Park, California, Slayer quickly rose to prominence with their uncompromising sound, blending elements of thrash metal and hardcore punk. They are part of the legendary “Big Four” thrash bands that emerged in the 1980s along with Metallica, Megadeth, and Anthrax. With iconic albums like “Reign in Blood” and “South of Heaven,” they solidified their reputation as pioneers of the thrash metal genre. Known for their dark lyrics, lightning-fast guitar solos, and relentless energy, Slayer became a cornerstone of the metal scene, inspiring legions of fans worldwide.
As one of the most influential bands in the history of heavy metal, Slayer has always been synonymous with intensity, aggression, and controversy. With a career spanning over four decades, the band has influenced countless artists and shaping the genre’s trajectory. However, behind the blistering riffs and thunderous drums lies a story of complex interpersonal dynamics, as revealed by guitarist Kerry King in recent interviews.
A Farewell Mired in Miscommunication:
While Slayer’s final tour was a fiery farewell for fans, it seems internally, things were different. Shedding light on the band’s fractured relationships, particularly his strained communication with vocalist/bassist Tom Araya and his outright animosity towards drummer Dave Lombardo. King revealed he hasn’t spoken to Araya since their final show in 2019, not even a “text or email.”
He attributes this to their personality differences, stating, “If I want a chocolate shake, he wants a vanilla shake.”
Regarding Lombardo, King’s comments were even more revealing. He stated that Lombardo is “dead” to him, implying a complete breakdown in their relationship. This harsh sentiment stems from past conflicts within the band. Lombardo, known for his technical prowess, had been fired and rejoined Slayer multiple times throughout their career. While the reasons behind their current animosity remain unclear, it paints a picture of a band fractured beyond repair.
A Renunion Tour Not Likely:
These revelations reveal a lingering tensions within the band prior to their disbandment. If fans are wondering if a reunion is truly out of the question they need to look no further than Kerry King’s and Dave Lombardo’s previous comments.
Kerry states “I can pretty much a hundred percent say no because I have a new outlet…Will Slayer tour again? I’m pretty sure that’s not going to happen. Could Slayer play a show again? I’m sure there’s a scenario. Am I looking for it? No, I’m just getting ready to start my career. So if that happens, it happens. But I’m going to be doing this for the next 10 years at least.”
Dave states “I think, a big part of my personal success is that I don’t look back. I’m always striving to better myself musically in every way possible.”
Beyond the Breakup:
Despite the internal strife, King isn’t dwelling on the past. He’s focusing on his new solo album, “From Hell I Rise,” promising music that retains the Slayer spirit. He acknowledges the influence of Slayer’s sound but emphasizes his creative freedom in this new venture. His first single, “Idle Hands,” delivers just that. Tour dates for 2024 are listed below.
Slayer’s Legacy Endures:
Slayer’s impact on thrash metal is undeniable. From their aggressive riffs to Araya’s iconic growl, they forged a sound that inspired countless bands. Though their internal conflicts may paint a different picture, their music will continue to resonate with fans worldwide. Whether King’s solo efforts capture the same magic remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the legend of Slayer lives on.
Tour Dates 2024:
05/09 – Welcome to Rockville Festival, Historic Crew Stadium, Daytona Beach, FL
05/16 – Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival, Daytona Int’l Speedway, Columbus, OH
07/19 – Texas Truce CU Theatre, Grand Prairie, TX
07/20 – Germania Insurance Amphitheatre, Austin, TX
07/21 – 713 Music Hall, Houston, TX
07/23 – Daly’s, Jacksonville, FL
07/24 – Fairgrounds Amphitheater, Orlando, FL
07/25 – Ameris Bank Amphitheater, Alpharetta, GA
07/27 – Red Hat Amphitheater, Raleigh, NC
07/30 – Stage AE, Pittsburgh, PA
07/31 – Budweiser Gardens, London, ON Canada
08/01 – Bell Centre, Montreal, QC Canada
08/03 – Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, CT
08/04 – SHNU, Manchester, NH
08/06 – Main Savings Amphitheatre, Bangor, ME
08/08 – Santander Arena, Reading, PA
08/09 – Jacobs Pavilion, Cleveland, OH
08/10 – Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre @ Freedom Hill, Sterling Heights, MI
08/13 – Bluestem Center For The Arts Amphitheater, Moorhead, MN
08/15 – Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary, AB Canada
08/16 – South Okanagan Events Centre, Penticton, BC Canada
08/17 – Accesso ShoWare Center, Kent, WA
08/18 – Theater of the Clouds, Portland, OR (LoG itin. has venue as MODA Center)
08/21 – The Forum, Los Angeles, CA
08/23 – Arizona Financial Theatre, Phoenix, AZ
08/24 – Rio Rancho Events Center, Albuquerque, NM
08/25 – El Paso County Coliseum, El Paso, TX
08/27 – Salt Air Amp, Salt Lake City, UT
08/29 – Red Rocks, Denver, CO
08/31 – The Astro Amphitheater, Omaha, NE
