Slayer

Slayer, founded in 1981, is an American thrash metal band that has significantly impacted the musical landscape. Hailing from Huntington Park, California, the group consists of Tom Araya (vocals and bass), Kerry King (guitar), Jeff Hanneman (guitar), and Dave Lombardo (drums). Known for their dark and aggressive sound, Slayer is often associated with the "Big Four" of thrash metal alongside Metallica, Megadeth, and Anthrax. The band's 1986 album "Reign in Blood" is considered a masterpiece of the genre, featuring relentless speed and brutal lyrics. Aside from their musical achievements, Slayer has courted controversy due to their dark imagery and their explicit content, which has resulted in bans and protests in certain regions. Despite line-up changes and the tragic passing of Hanneman in 2013, Slayer has left an indelible mark on heavy metal, drawing a devoted following worldwide through their incendiary live performances and their undeniable influence on countless bands.