In the annals of heavy metal history, Slayer stands as an indomitable titan. Founded in 1981 by guitarists Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman, drummer Dave Lombardo, and bassist/vocalist Tom Araya, Slayer’s fast and aggressive musical style helped define the thrash metal genre. They cemented their place alongside Metallica, Megadeth, and Anthrax as part of the “Big Four” of thrash metal.
Slayer’s storied career includes twelve studio albums, two live albums, a box set, six music videos, two EPs, and a covers album. Notably, four of their studio albums have received gold certification in the United States. The band has also been recognized with five Grammy Award nominations, winning two Grammys in 2007 and 2008 for “Eyes of the Insane” and “Final Six,” respectively.
The Big 4 Festival Legacy
In 2010 and 2011, Slayer, along with their Big Four peers, embarked on a series of monumental events dubbed The Big 4 Festivals. These festivals brought together the thrash metal giants for a series of unforgettable performances across Europe and the USA. A particularly standout moment came on July 3, 2011, when all four bands performed at Gothenburg’s Ullevi Stadium in Sweden. Slayer’s set during this historic festival was celebrated as one of the finest of the entire event, capturing the raw energy and intensity that defines their live performances.
The CD Release
Now, fans have the chance to relive that electrifying performance with the release of a new CD featuring Slayer’s full set from that dynamic day. This recording marks the first time the Big 4 bands shared a stage in Sweden, and it showcases Slayer’s ferocious live prowess.
Track Listing and Highlights
The CD includes the following tracks from Slayer’s legendary performance:
- Disciple – 4:50
- War Ensemble – 5:20
- Postmortem – 2:58
- Hate Worldwide – 5:28
- Mandatory Suicide – 4:18
- Chemical Warfare – 2:19
- Snuff – 2:19
- South of Heaven – 7:49
- Raining Blood – 4:11
- Black Magic – 1:43
- Angel of Death – 4:18
The setlist is a powerful showcase of Slayer’s most iconic tracks. From the thunderous riffs of “Disciple” and the relentless aggression of “War Ensemble” to the legendary intensity of “Raining Blood” and “Angel of Death,” each song on this CD captures the ferocity and skill that have made Slayer a defining force in metal.
Slayer’s performance at The Big 4 Festival remains a landmark moment in the history of thrash metal, and this new CD offers fans an opportunity to experience that unforgettable night once again. Whether you were there in person or are discovering it for the first time, this release is a testament to Slayer’s unparalleled energy and the enduring legacy of their music.
For those eager to add this historic performance to their collection, the CD is available now. Don’t miss the chance to witness Slayer’s explosive set from Gothenburg, a true celebration of metal’s finest hour.
