About this album
Where they were
Released on October 7, 1986, 'Reign in Blood' was Slayer's third studio album and solidified their place as pioneers within the thrash metal genre. Following their previous albums, this record marked a significant leap in production quality and thematic content, showcasing a darker, more aggressive sound that would influence countless bands in the years to come.
Why it matters
'Reign in Blood' is often hailed as one of the greatest thrash metal albums of all time, featuring tracks like 'Angel of Death,' which sparked controversy for its graphic lyrical content but also reached a wider audience. The album topped the Billboard Heatseekers chart and has influenced genres beyond metal, leaving a lasting impact on heavy music culture.
Essential tracks
- "Angel of Death" — The opening track is notorious for its brutal themes and fast-paced instrumentation, setting the tone for the entire album.
- "Raining Blood" — With its haunting intro and explosive climax, this track epitomizes Slayer's signature sound and is a staple at their live performances.
- "Jesus Saves" — This track combines intense riffs with provocative lyrics, highlighting Slayer's ability to tackle controversial topics within their music.
Release Date
October 7, 1986
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Angel of Death 4:51
- 2 Piece by Piece 2:02
- 3 Necrophobic 1:40
- 4 Altar of Sacrifice 2:50
- 5 Jesus Saves 2:54
- 6 Criminally Insane 2:23
- 7 Reborn 2:11
- 8 Epidemic 2:23
- 9 Postmortem 3:27
- 10 Raining Blood 4:16
- 11 Aggressive Perfector 2:30
- 12 Criminally Insane (remix) 3:17