In a recent interview with Australia’s Metal Roos, Kerry King discussed SLAYER’s activities following their recent festival appearances after a five-year hiatus. Reflecting on the band’s status, King made it clear that SLAYER has no plans to return to the studio or embark on tours. “We’re never gonna tour again. We’re never gonna make a record again,” he stated emphatically. “Back in 2018, we said, ‘This is our final tour.’ This year’s shows were simply a celebration of that milestone, marking five years since we retired.”
King emphasized the significance of SLAYER’s return for fans who missed the chance to see them earlier, especially younger audiences. “Say a kid was 10 when we retired; now they’re 15 or 16. This might be their first and only chance to experience us live. I think that’s important,” he said, dismissing criticism of their brief comeback as inconsequential.
The timing of SLAYER’s reunion shows coincided with King’s announcement of his new solo band and debut solo album, From Hell I Rise. While he acknowledged the less-than-ideal scheduling, he remained positive: “The festival organizers wanted to make the announcements on their timeline, and it wasn’t perfect for me. But here we are in Australia with my new band, kicking ass.”
King also reflected on SLAYER’s reunion performances at Riot Fest in Chicago on September 22 and Aftershock in Sacramento on October 10, describing the experience as unexpectedly emotional. “When we hit the stage in Chicago, I got goosebumps. I realized it was so much bigger than I’d anticipated. The response was overwhelming, and the connection with the fans made it truly epic,” he shared. Chicago’s deep historical connection with the band added to the emotional weight of the event.
SLAYER’s setlist for their comeback performances featured iconic tracks like “South of Heaven,” “Angel of Death,” “Raining Blood,” and “Seasons in the Abyss,” along with “Repentless,” the title track of their final album. While the Louder Than Life festival in Louisville, scheduled for September 27, was canceled due to severe weather, the band’s two performances proved to be monumental events.
The reunion lineup mirrored SLAYER’s final 2019 tour: King on guitar, Tom Araya on bass and vocals, Paul Bostaph on drums, and Gary Holt on guitar.
Meanwhile, King’s solo project has been gaining momentum. From Hell I Rise, released in May via Reigning Phoenix Music, features material written entirely by King and recorded with his new band, including Bostaph, bassist Kyle Sanders (HELLYEAH), guitarist Phil Demmel (formerly of MACHINE HEAD), and vocalist Mark Osegueda (DEATH ANGEL). Produced by Josh Wilbur, the album has added another chapter to King’s storied career, drawing from influences ranging from LAMB OF GOD to AVENGED SEVENFOLD.
Although SLAYER’s legacy may never expand with new records or tours, their recent performances served as a triumphant celebration of their history, leaving fans with unforgettable memories.
