Slayer ‘Repentless’

  Slayer’s newest release “Repentless” marks their 12th studio album and first release on Nuclear Blast. It is also their first record without founding member and guitarist Jeff Hanneman who was responsible for the majority of songwriting duties. Exodus guitarist Gary Holt has been filling those very large shoes since Hanneman was sidelined from a spider bite prior to his passing and has done an admirable job. Without the presence of Hanneman, songwriting responsibilities have fell on guitarist Kerry King who seems to be up to the challenge.

  “Repentless” is a more streamlined album than the last few Slayer records with the focus on all out thrash. In fact, it is the best straight up thrash that Slayer has done in a long time. Produced by Terry Date, the record has a really tight feel and that is something that Slayer does best. The guitar attacks of King and Holt simply cut and bleed and although Tom Araya may no longer have the range he once had, he is still more than capable of fronting this band. In fact, his understated vocals are a welcome change of pace. Drummer Paul Bostaph is back yet again, replacing Dave Lombardo for the second time and has no problem at all pounding the skins behind the kit. “Vices” is a knockout track with Araya kicking it up a notch as he screams about violence being the ultimate release and “Atrocity Vendor” is a whirlwind ride of blistering guitars and heart pounding bass lines.

  It’s clear that King and Holt already have an excellent chemistry and it is their guitars that really drive this album. After a tragic loss that could have taken Slayer out of the game, they have stepped up to the plate and delivered a damn fine record with “Repentless.” Much to the delight of thrash fans everywhere, Slayer is back and they’re still pretty badass.