In a recent interview with Full Metal Jackie, Mark Osegueda, the frontman of Death Angel and Kerry King’s solo project, shared his excitement about the ongoing Ashes of Leviathan tour. When asked about his favorite Slayer song to perform, Osegueda named “Black Magic,” highlighting his ability to hit high notes that he believes Tom Araya hasn’t sung in years.
“I’ve noticed that when I hit those high notes in ‘Black Magic,’ the fans up front often have this reaction, like, ‘Oh, whoa,’” he explained. Osegueda expressed his respect for Araya, emphasizing that he aims to do justice to the iconic Slayer tracks. “I want to make sure I’m honoring those songs because I’m a fan myself,” he added.
Osegueda’s recent collaboration with Kerry King on the debut solo album From Hell I Rise has given him the opportunity to perform live, including classic Slayer songs. He mentioned receiving positive feedback from diehard Slayer fans, who initially approached his performances with skepticism. “A lot of them have said, ‘We didn’t know what to expect, but you’re doing those Slayer songs justice,’” he noted, which he considers a significant compliment.
The solo band’s setlist often features a mix of King’s new material and classic Slayer tracks, creating a unique experience for both old and new fans alike. Upcoming performances include a show at Arena CDMX in Mexico, followed by festival appearances, culminating in a three-day run at the Good Things Festival in Melbourne. Osegueda’s passion for the music and commitment to honoring Slayer’s legacy shines through in his performances, as he continues to win over audiences on this exciting tour.
