This is my fave Slayer album. The slower tempo makes them sound even more terrifying somehow. And it grooves like hell. Plus the only band who sound amazing with all the dynamics being crushed out during the production, and yet it doesn't hurt the ears at loud volumes. That's what makes Slayer sound so unique.
I totally agree. While 'Seasons..' is a close second, 'South of Heaven' is just awesome. I know A LOT of thrash purists back in the day hated it, but I *LOVE* the musical range on this album. And as far as their thrash roots, 'Ghosts of War' is both brutal and musically brilliant!
I saw your mention of this song and I realized I haven’t heard it in forever, so I just pulled it up and played it. Thank you for making my day just a little better. 👍🏻🤘😎
I mean.... the parts that go "ambushed by the spray of lead, count the bullet holes in your head" and "Holes burning in your chest, raypt by machined gun fire...." Thats the best piece of music or decription in words for non combatants to feel what war is like. The outtro is poem reminiscent of Apocalypse Now.
Best way to see Slayer in concert is at an indoor arena where it can super dark, they fog up the place and shine red lights on the fog and it's just wicked. Unreal. One of the best metal shows I've been to.
Dave Lombardo is one of the greatest drummers in all of metal and highly respected. Ask someone like Danny Carey what they think of Lombardo. You'll get nothing but praise. Dude is a effing legend.
R.I.P Mr. Hanneman his hand in writing Slayers music. The band is never been the same without Jeff and Dave L.Blessed to have seen the O.G line up back in the day.
@@1JMB1 Dropping the needle on a platter of Live Undead or Haunting is everything. Seeing them live back then mid 80's specifically spoils you for eternity.
Dave Lombardo had an upbringing steeped in Cuban music, and used to help out running discos as a kid, he was no stranger to a groove. Thrashing thru the tracks in 4/4 , we’ll yes, he had that nailed down and at the time, as fast as anyone in the game, but it was the breakdowns, the moshes that set him apart and made him loved by so many drummers. He made demonic thrash swing!!! His parts on this album are fantastic, so musical, so powerful! For many fans Lombardo made Slayer!!
Dave Lombardo, the original drummer of Slayer, was the man. He had the ability to groove like few metal drummers can. He is the total package. He took their music to another level.
You guys should really do Read Between the Lies from the same album. South of Heaven. That song may groove harder than anything else they ever did. I think you guys will really appreciate that track.
@@metalkari9282 Within the context I meant when he was with Slayer, hence the past tense. I am sure he is just as awesome now, but his style really worked well with Slayer's sound.
As a man who has seen many, many, many metal bands live in my life time I can concur with you George 100%. When SLAYER Steps on stage "It just feels different". You are absolutely correct. They had an "Aura" about them that was just......no words. Probably the greatest Heavy Metal Live performers of ALL TIME. Imagine a 2hour set of nothing buy absolute BANGERS.....?
The thing Slayer does so well (drums and solos) is sound like they're straight from the bowels of hell... brutal... scary... I don't think any other band has even come close to sounding like them.
@@danielmlndz1182 Death metal is an entire genre heavily influenced by Slayer. And, very few death metal bands have their ability to generate catchy riffs. There’s a reason they are as close to commercial as extreme metal can be. Nobody does it as well
@@warlockdruid early on they were great. Covenant was the last great Morbid Angel record. By the time they hit it big, they’d heavily compromised their sound
Also be aware that back in the day, mandatory suicide closed out side A of the album, so the outro also functions as a way to wind down and close out the whole side. In the context of listening to the whole album, it doesn't feel like as much of a letdown as it does in isolation. It's just a little break before you flip the album and get pummeled by Ghosts of War.
They always miss the context, and won't hear of doing this any other way. It's a huge hole in their understanding of classic metal. It's like reacting to scenes instead of watching movies.
The parts that go "ambushed by the spray of lead, count the bullet holes in your head" and "Holes burning in your chest, raypt by machined gun fire...." Thats the best piece of music or decription in words for non combatants to feel what war is like. The outtro is poem reminiscent of Apocalypse Now.
Part of the reason (i think) for the way the song ended is because it was placed at the end of the album side. Back in day of albums, song placement was a big deal to some people/artists. It would be cool if you did the whole album South of Heaven. The songs flowed together which gave the album a certain feel.
Part of the problem is that they react to individual songs. But as fans, we listened to the whole first side of the album (then changed sides and listened to side two). These songs weren't singles. I doubt many fans heard this song isolated from the rest of the album, and so their experience reacting to this song bears very little similarity to the experience fans had when first hearing this.
Two perfect Slayer songs with monster grooves that I haven't seen you guys react to yet are Skeletons of Society and Expendable Youth, both from the Seasons In The Abyss album. Massive stuff.
Seeing Lombardo with Slayer was some of the best parts of my youth. Of all the great live bands I'd get see to see play regularly, one of the absolutely most consistently amazing live experiences possible. Rich the Ancient Metal Beast
Great reaction and review. If you ever get a chance: Thy Art Is Murder, Acrania, Mudvayne. You'll like em I think. Coheed And Cambria is another hidden jem.
The double bass and epic fills from Lombardo at the end along with the hellish guitars as well as the great lyrics I would think will eventually grow on you.
This album when it dropped was a HUGE shift from Reign in Blood. Lyrically it was just as brutal but musically much slower and it took awhile for people to really accept it. South of Heaven is one of their greatest albums.
Spill The Blood......was the signature song on that album......it was for the base fans of the band ......there is bubble gum songs that the herd hoop and holler about but old school fans who was down with the band from the beginning know what's the real stuff.....🦉🦉🦉
I was one of those people. Couldn't stand it at first ( except ghosts of war, which is my all time favorite Slayer song ), but after warming up to it, it became one of my favorites by them.
When i listened at the time i did not like it so much i was a teenager and i was expecting more speed and the Tom's voice sounded to me a little tired and with not so anger like Hell Awaits and Reign in Blood, but now is one of my favorite Slayer's albums.
As an old metalhead, it's great to revisit these tracks and hear them with a fresh perspective through your unbiased reactions. As mentioned in comments below, you'd really enjoy listening to "Skeletons Of Society" and "Expendable Youth" both of which are from the Seasons In The Abyss album. I also recommend "World Painted Blood" which is the title track from the 2009 release.
Behind the Crooked Cross was the song that got me into Slayer. I can remember sharing an earbud at the back of the school bus with the older metal kid back in the early 90s. I was a Metallica fan, but hadn't listened to much Slayer at the time (music wasn't as easily available pre-internet and in rural areas, especially metal). He was listening to this album and when the intro to BtCC came on, I was locked in for life.
Slayer is so good live. They’ll blast you with 6 songs before they even say a word to the crowd. No gimmicks, just flawless metal from start to finish at their shows.
I went to a concert in the early 90s that was Testament, Megadeth and Slayer as the headliner. It was hands down the craziest, most insane concert I’ve been to and we had floor seats. Testament and Megadeth are two of my favorite bands, they were great. However, when Slayer hit the stage, the entire atmosphere just switched on a dime. Within the first 2 minutes of the first song, a fight broke out about three rows ahead of us. Everyone was standing on their chairs, and this girl in front of my friend lost her balance and fell backwards. My friend instinctively caught her to keep her from falling and her boyfriend turned around and looked at us like he was ready to throw down. It woulda been 3 of us on just him if it came to it but thankfully his girl immediately explained what happened and he cooled right down. He was pretty big, so it wouldn’t have been a fun time. The fight in front of us and that guy almost coming after us are the two things that stand out about that concert besides the drums. The drums when Slayer came on were hitting so hard. You could feel the bass drum in your chest like someone was thumping on it. That was such a weird feeling. There was a huge mosh pit near the front but that goes with the territory. Honestly it was a great concert but probably the scariest crowd I’ve ever been a part of concert wise.
I saw Slayer about five years ago. I was pretty far back in the bleachers. No joke though, some dude just dropped to the ground in the aisle during one of their songs and started doing the worm. It was the absolute last thing I would have expected, but I laughed my ass off. Good times.
@@suicyconaut Testament was phenomenal. Most of the crowd was there for Slayer, that was obvious by how they behaved during Testament and Megadeth. While I liked Slayer, I was there for Testament and Megadeth more than Slayer. I wasn’t disappointed by either of them. Slayer didn’t disappoint either, but the way fans acted was when they hit the stage.
@@AtomicZn The worm? That woulda made me pause a second before I lost my shit laughing at how random it was. I definitely would rather see a crowd clear a space for that rather than the people pummeling each other that I got, for sure.
Clash Of The Titans Tour! Baltimore Arena early 90`s was my first concert AIC opened the show Facelift was still brand new. GD Amazing. But yes there was a palpable difference when Slayer blesses the stage.
I always liked this song but never really thought about how funky the groove they lay down in it is until I heard you guys break it down. Awesome work, guys.
I think you guys would like "At Dawn They Sleep", from the "Hell Awaits" album. It has a funky-groove vibe to it, and some fantastic drumming by Lombardo.
Jeff and Kerry have co-credits for almost all the songs on this album. Spill the blood and behind the crooked cross are the only two written solely by Jeff.
Dave Lombardo is Cuban American and his style is so original, you can tell when you hear any other guys play with Slayer. Dave Lombardo is the best drummer on earth. And i know about history and jazz drummers… No way…Lombardo 💕💕💕💕💕
The version they played of this at the Clash of the Titans Birmingham NEC gig in 1990 is still in my top 3 live tracks ever. On point, tight, intense. A real hairs up on the back of your neck moment!
My very best friend and fellow slayer head passed away only a few hours ago. Laying here, I was so happy to see this in my feed as I reflect. Seeing 2 great friends enjoying a slayer song for the first time was just what the dr ordered. You asked why this wasn't higher on the list and the answer is... it's medium thrash lol
Slayer is one of my all-time favorites! I think you guys would dig the songs Blood Red, Expendable Youth, Postmortem, Spirit in Black and Dissident Aggressor.
So fkn awesome that you guys talk about Lombardo right away. Drums on Slayer are always great, but that album he is on FIRE! Serious Metal groove that he provides makes Slayer really unique.
Great reaction guys to a great song! You should also consider Ghosts of War off of this same album. Total banger. Also, if you want to try something a bit newer from them, try Bloodline.
I know they already did South of Heaven but if they decided to do Silent Scream, they should play South of Heaven before because the transition between both the songs is amazing and seamless.
Great one guys! Listen to a live version of this song. During that end section Tom always ramps up the vocals until he's screaming the words. It has all the energy I think you felt it was missing towards the end. It's intense!
For me the end is great because I like to think that he sings like that because soldiers loose sensibility, he describes horrible things like if it was just another day
It's great you guys loving metal! When I was young in the late 80s we had our Jean jackets full of different band patches and pins and at the partys we always had great music playing from slayer, beastie boys,, primus, dead Kennedys ,mercyful fate, nwa, overkill, dead milkmen, black sabbath and on and on it truly was a great time to live!
Another example of why listening to metal like they were 'Hit' songs might not be the best way to consume it. In the context of the entire album the outro makes total sense as it's the final song on side A. And when you factor in the fact that most of us listened to cassette tapes back then it makes even more sense. Plus, like many Slayer albums, the ENTIRE ALBUM is a "banger"...i could never listen to just one song from this album in a single sitting. It's all about context.
I've always said for some damn reason everytime I've seen Slayer play live the sky opens and it starts raining and the wind is perfect. I don't ever forget that when I listen to them anytime. They kick ass!
For a taste of their later works you should do World Painted Blood. It's the title track on the last album they made with Jeff and it's groove is NASTY!
I remember in 1988 borrowing a Public Enemy tape and it having a def jam sampler leaflet in it. As well as the other artists there was a picture of 4 hairy arsed dudes. So I borrowed a copy of this album from my local library (public libraries in the UK lent tapes and Vinyl as well as books) to wonder what a metal band on a rap label would sound like. It blew my 15 year old mind!
You are correct, none of the other bands come even close to the intensity and aggression of Slayer live. Also as you said you can't put them in a poll with other bands. Slayer is only for the hardcore. The other bands especially Metallica will always win in a poll. They are very mainstream, even people that didn't listen to metal would listen to Metallica, but never Slayer. Slayer is the ultimate thrash band in my opinion! Also, been with you guys since the beginning of your channel and have suggested this song many times :-) One of my favorites.
I was in high school when this album came out... I was smiling ear to ear waiting for you to get to the filthy main riff. That groove hits SO HARD! 2 of my favs are "Hallowed Point" and "War Ensamble" off their Seasons In the Abyss album. On another note, so many people hear the title of the song, and say "Oh my GAWD! They want people to commit suicide!" But you're right, it is about soldiers in a war, following orders and being killed. My favorite Metallica song (Disposable Heroes) is basically the same idea.
I really love that you guys do this, so many people wouldn’t even consider listening to these heavy metal songs purely based on that fact that they are metal and not what they are “supposed” to be listening too or isn’t “cool” you 2 rock
This is the traditional path of a Slayer fan. At first, everything just sounds like noise. Then you come back to them and you start to understand the musical aspect. when you come back for third or fourth listen, Slayer has you hooked. Great video guys, I’ve loved seeing you both develop over time!
That's metal in general, most of it just sounds like noise to the untrained ear but as your listening ability develops, you hear it differently and "get it" and this is more prevalent with Slayer than any other band. Most people accused them of just spamming E note riffs and playing sporadic random-note solos but when you really dig deep and listen they had so much more musical talent than they were ever rightfully given credit for.
You should remember that in the time when this song was released people were listening to music in a little bit different way than now. We were listening albums as a whole. Singles in metal music were not popular. So every song sounds a bit different if you hear it in the context of other from the same album. Even this ending does. Regards from Poland 👊
in concert though, the ending seems like a whole new song. Slayer is very talented at taking lackluster album parts and breathing a whole new life into them live. The vocals are really delivered powerfully and the drums usually become equally chaotic. That combined with the light show, and it becomes one of the highlights of the concert.
My first slayer show was in Oakland, in 1989 I think, they were recording Decade of Aggression, it was fkn insane. Blood everywhere, before they started the prop blood. Now understanding the difference between Slayer and Queensryche, you understand why thrash fans resent the "metal" reference.
the production on south of heaven is the highest level that the band reached. there is some very nice work done on these tracks a lil tricks in the prod. its recorded like a big rock album and less like a traditional underground metal release.
Your right. In concert SLAYER DOMINATES EVERYONES MINDS N THEY GO FREAKING CRAZY. 100 bands can play all day but when Slayer plays last n always last best because they are the BEST Thrash Metal Band EVER N ALWAYS WILL BE 💪🤟 a Klm all attitude comes out n everyone’s minds are melted by the metal!!!!!
I used to work with Dave's daughter at an animal hospital. Never met him, but he is definitely one of the best drummers ever. A real pioneer of double bass and "metal" drumming.
@@gpet23 Dude, I ain't some obsessed fan boy. I worked with her, but she is like 20 years younger than me, we didn't hang out.... Plus how often do you think her dad is around? He was touring doing shows, interviews, jet setting, you know? Anyway, if I was going to a concert with her and her dad was there, of course I would be like, get me back stage.
Postmortem, Black Magic, Angel Of Death, Ghosts Of War, are allllll amazing Slayer songs, give them a try, just amazing. Slayer is my top 2 to see live, unfortunatly, they retired 😭💔
@@MrKawika64 kmet wz an old rock radio station in Los Angeles ,along wth klos. they went off the air a longgg time ago. I think sum of their desire went to klos
The influence Rick Rubin had on this album is very much felt. I think the guys like Slayer songs from this album is because they’re slowed down but heavier and that’s the Rick Rubin influence
Lombardo is one of my long time favs if not the most fav. Do Reign in Blood entire album beginning to end in one sitting. It's still the high water mark.
Thrilled to see how far you fellas have come. Saw your Angel of Death reaction other day and that was 2 years back. You def didn’t know HOW to receive so much eargasm then. Love to see y’all bangin to real metal today. Horns up, brothers🔥
Glad you guys did this one. Definitely a classic and one of my favorite Slayer songs. Two quick comments: 1) Yeah, Dave Lombardo is an absolute beast. In my opinion, he's the best of the entire crop of thrash metal drummers, in the top five of any list of best overall metal drummers, and maybe should be in discussion for one of the greatest rock drummers of all time. 2) It's funny what you said about the energy being different when Slayer takes the stage. It's really true. I've been to a LOT of metal shows, and I've seen Slayer maybe eight or ten times if you include festival appearances. And I love Slayer. Love them. But every time they're about to go on, I actually feel just a little bit nervous. It's a good kind of nervous, but there's a sort of anticipation of exactly how hard my face is about to be shredded off. Once they actually start playing and I'm into the sound, the nervousness goes away and I have a great time. But for about 10 minutes before they go on, I'm like "Wait, was my mom right about 'devil music'?" XD
Great reaction, guys! Please check out "No Place for Disgrace" by the band Flotsam and Jetsam! It's the title track from their 2nd album released in 1988, and it's about Japanese Samurai warriors. Jason Newsted formed this band before joining Metallica in 1986 after Cliff Burton (bassist) died in a bus accident. Flotsam and Jetsam are still going strong. They released their 14th album last June. Thanks!
Can't believe that I spent a couple of hours listening to you guys talk over my favorite band's music, Slayer, and actually enjoyed it! You've got a new subscriber. I'll be back to check out your other shit.
This is my favorite song on "South of Heaven" ("Behind the Crooked Cross" a very close second) and I completely agree with ya'lls analysis. The outro should have been the intro. That song would have a much more fluid end section had they recorded it in that way. 80's gonna 80's though
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Speaking of Slayer... a song that doesn't get enough attention is their song "Skeletons of Society". It's got a real sick groove!
Easily in my top ten ever Slayer songs. Absolutely brilliant tune.
yeah dudes dont forget postmortem
Slayers take on doom metal. Love it.
Great pick - sick groove is an understatement
I feel that way about Skeletons of Society and it's brother Expendable Youth.
This is my fave Slayer album. The slower tempo makes them sound even more terrifying somehow. And it grooves like hell. Plus the only band who sound amazing with all the dynamics being crushed out during the production, and yet it doesn't hurt the ears at loud volumes. That's what makes Slayer sound so unique.
I like to picture slower/heavier songs as a big juggernaut monster slowly moving towards you, and you're frozen in fear.
I totally agree. While 'Seasons..' is a close second, 'South of Heaven' is just awesome. I know A LOT of thrash purists back in the day hated it, but I *LOVE* the musical range on this album. And as far as their thrash roots, 'Ghosts of War' is both brutal and musically brilliant!
Exactly! Faster isn't always better. Those slow riffs are the definition of menacing metal. 😅😎
BEHIND THE CROOKED CROSS! Lombardo goes absolutely insane on that track and the riffing is nuts!
Yeah this one too
that song shreds like crazy
Riff from that song is so underrated
Yeah you always had to listen to it going into mandatory suicide
I saw your mention of this song and I realized I haven’t heard it in forever, so I just pulled it up and played it. Thank you for making my day just a little better. 👍🏻🤘😎
The whole South Of Heaven record is pure excellence.
Hell yeah it is!!!!
“This is the real, real shit”.
That may be the best description of Slayer that I’ve ever heard.
I mean.... the parts that go "ambushed by the spray of lead, count the bullet holes in your head" and "Holes burning in your chest, raypt by machined gun fire...." Thats the best piece of music or decription in words for non combatants to feel what war is like. The outtro is poem reminiscent of Apocalypse Now.
Best way to see Slayer in concert is at an indoor arena where it can super dark, they fog up the place and shine red lights on the fog and it's just wicked. Unreal. One of the best metal shows I've been to.
yup.
Dave Lombardo is one of the greatest drummers in all of metal and highly respected. Ask someone like Danny Carey what they think of Lombardo. You'll get nothing but praise. Dude is a effing legend.
He’s no Lars but he aight
@@Justinsox39 in creativity and song arrangement, Lars beats Dave.
In literally anything else, Dave easily bests Lars
@@kjl3080 rethink your life
Oh yes and now he has just joined Testament, love that band so much. Going to be awesome to see him perform with them live.
@@Justinsox39 Give me a break!
R.I.P Mr. Hanneman his hand in writing Slayers music. The band is never been the same without Jeff and Dave L.Blessed to have seen the O.G line up back in the day.
Feel you bro. Manage to see them at BIG 4 in Warsaw... Amazing gig.
@@1JMB1 Dropping the needle on a platter of Live Undead or Haunting is everything. Seeing them live back then mid 80's specifically spoils you for eternity.
Y'all should really do Dead Skin Mask off the Seasons in the Abyss album by Slayer. That song is sick.
the whole seasons is just amazing
10000% agree, they would absolutely love Dead Skin Mask!
Dead Skin Mask and Spirit in Black!!! Seasons in the Abyss is an amazing album!
Skeletons of society
I thought the same thing...dead skin mask they would jam out to
Dave Lombardo had an upbringing steeped in Cuban music, and used to help out running discos as a kid, he was no stranger to a groove. Thrashing thru the tracks in 4/4 , we’ll yes, he had that nailed down and at the time, as fast as anyone in the game, but it was the breakdowns, the moshes that set him apart and made him loved by so many drummers. He made demonic thrash swing!!! His parts on this album are fantastic, so musical, so powerful! For many fans Lombardo made Slayer!!
Dave Lombardo, the original drummer of Slayer, was the man. He had the ability to groove like few metal drummers can. He is the total package. He took their music to another level.
You guys should really do Read Between the Lies from the same album. South of Heaven. That song may groove harder than anything else they ever did. I think you guys will really appreciate that track.
Was?! He didnt retire or die
@@metalkari9282 Within the context I meant when he was with Slayer, hence the past tense. I am sure he is just as awesome now, but his style really worked well with Slayer's sound.
@@metalkari9282 No he's back with Testament
He’s one of the best period. He’s the godfather of the double bass, has played many styles of music, including jazz and world music.
As a man who has seen many, many, many metal bands live in my life time I can concur with you George 100%.
When SLAYER Steps on stage "It just feels different". You are absolutely correct.
They had an "Aura" about them that was just......no words.
Probably the greatest Heavy Metal Live performers of ALL TIME.
Imagine a 2hour set of nothing buy absolute BANGERS.....?
They sure did
You just know what’s about to happen! Slayer Live is absolutely amazing. I’ve had clothes ripped off etc being in entire audience pit. So good!!
Dave Lombardo for me is the best metal drummer ever.
After Peter Sandoval
Dave Lombardo and Jun Saburi are probably my favorites
My Favorite is Lombardo but Sandoval Carey and Hawke are Better
@@salvatoreperez5113 and Gene Hoglan
@@dissonantpulse Lombardo is my Favorite for Metal thought
The thing Slayer does so well (drums and solos) is sound like they're straight from the bowels of hell... brutal... scary... I don't think any other band has even come close to sounding like them.
Death metal has entered the chat ... Lol
@@danielmlndz1182 Death metal is an entire genre heavily influenced by Slayer. And, very few death metal bands have their ability to generate catchy riffs. There’s a reason they are as close to commercial as extreme metal can be. Nobody does it as well
I think the video of Hell Awaits live from 1985 is the perfect visual for this. It looks and sounds like pure evil
Morbid Angel
@@warlockdruid early on they were great. Covenant was the last great Morbid Angel record. By the time they hit it big, they’d heavily compromised their sound
Also be aware that back in the day, mandatory suicide closed out side A of the album, so the outro also functions as a way to wind down and close out the whole side. In the context of listening to the whole album, it doesn't feel like as much of a letdown as it does in isolation. It's just a little break before you flip the album and get pummeled by Ghosts of War.
This. South of Heaven is a whole ALBUM. Listening to it is an experience as a whole. It's not meant to be taken in solitary listens.
Bro,.. Ghosts of War !! Fuckin EPIC !! 🤘🤘
They always miss the context, and won't hear of doing this any other way. It's a huge hole in their understanding of classic metal. It's like reacting to scenes instead of watching movies.
Back in the days of cassette tapes! You are absolutely right about this song winding down and setting the table for the second side.
@@Torquemonster440 One of their best and yet so underrated.
The South of Heaven album is a massive groove.Choose any song off it and you will love it.
Can't deny genius
Totally agree!!!!
They probably wouldn’t vibe too hard Silent Scream lol that song is balls to wall from start to finish
@@EAK1437 Politically incorrect lyrics though. Anti-abortion song. Gotta love it when metal and punk bands still did that back in the 80s
This whole album is Dave's masterclass in melding thrash with groove and sooooo many memorable fills. Even non-drummers latch onto every, single hit.
The parts that go "ambushed by the spray of lead, count the bullet holes in your head" and "Holes burning in your chest, raypt by machined gun fire...." Thats the best piece of music or decription in words for non combatants to feel what war is like. The outtro is poem reminiscent of Apocalypse Now.
Part of the reason (i think) for the way the song ended is because it was placed at the end of the album side. Back in day of albums, song placement was a big deal to some people/artists. It would be cool if you did the whole album South of Heaven. The songs flowed together which gave the album a certain feel.
Great insight.
Part of the problem is that they react to individual songs. But as fans, we listened to the whole first side of the album (then changed sides and listened to side two). These songs weren't singles. I doubt many fans heard this song isolated from the rest of the album, and so their experience reacting to this song bears very little similarity to the experience fans had when first hearing this.
Ghosts of War is my fav off the album and your analysis is spot on 💯
The “outro” is the best part 😄
End of side 1 on the tape - OMG! That was such a treat - having to flip the tape over to keep rocking...
Two perfect Slayer songs with monster grooves that I haven't seen you guys react to yet are Skeletons of Society and Expendable Youth, both from the Seasons In The Abyss album. Massive stuff.
Yes 🤘🏽
Ghosts of War
Heavens yes! I'm a huge 70's funk/R&B fan, and when I think of groove from Slayer, I always remember Skeletons of Society.
Tormentor or anything on show no mercy
Yes! Great call.
Seeing Lombardo with Slayer was some of the best parts of my youth. Of all the great live bands I'd get see to see play regularly, one of the absolutely most consistently amazing live experiences possible.
Rich the Ancient Metal Beast
Great reaction and review. If you ever get a chance: Thy Art Is Murder, Acrania, Mudvayne. You'll like em I think. Coheed And Cambria is another hidden jem.
Reign, south, and seasons are just some of the greatest metal and Slayer albums!!!
You guys need to do Dead Skin Mask
Truth, really tight groove on that one. The whole SITA album is fantastic, one of my favorite albums from them
I always listen to Mandatory Suicide and Ghosts of War back to back cause they just fit together.
now THATS the truth
I'll check it out
Kind've like SOH and Silent Scream.
@@b.nash.7778 , they good stuff, ty
You should listen to Chemical Warfare and Ghosts of War back to back. They actually do go together. The ending riff of CW is the intro to GoW.
The double bass and epic fills from Lombardo at the end along with the hellish guitars as well as the great lyrics I would think will eventually grow on you.
This album when it dropped was a HUGE shift from Reign in Blood. Lyrically it was just as brutal but musically much slower and it took awhile for people to really accept it. South of Heaven is one of their greatest albums.
Yes. They caught alot of criticism for the Accoustics on spill the blood. And slayer is just as sick on slower songs.Indeed SOH is definitely top 3
Yep ! I love it as much as Reign in Blood, from show no mercy to Seasons in the abyss Slayer didn't write one single bad song .
Spill The Blood......was the signature song on that album......it was for the base fans of the band ......there is bubble gum songs that the herd hoop and holler about but old school fans who was down with the band from the beginning know what's the real stuff.....🦉🦉🦉
I was one of those people. Couldn't stand it at first ( except ghosts of war, which is my all time favorite Slayer song ), but after warming up to it, it became one of my favorites by them.
When i listened at the time i did not like it so much i was a teenager and i was expecting more speed and the Tom's voice sounded to me a little tired and with not so anger like Hell Awaits and Reign in Blood, but now is one of my favorite Slayer's albums.
Slayer=total headbangability. Dave Lombardo now drummer with Testament, another great thrash band
As an old metalhead, it's great to revisit these tracks and hear them with a fresh perspective through your unbiased reactions. As mentioned in comments below, you'd really enjoy listening to "Skeletons Of Society" and "Expendable Youth" both of which are from the Seasons In The Abyss album. I also recommend "World Painted Blood" which is the title track from the 2009 release.
Cult Of Luna - Nightwalkers
Bolt Thrower - When Cannons Fade
Alcest - Les Jardins De Minuit
Behind The Crooked Cross is by far my favorite Slayer song. South of Heaven is one of the best metal albums of all time.
Behind the Crooked Cross was the song that got me into Slayer. I can remember sharing an earbud at the back of the school bus with the older metal kid back in the early 90s. I was a Metallica fan, but hadn't listened to much Slayer at the time (music wasn't as easily available pre-internet and in rural areas, especially metal). He was listening to this album and when the intro to BtCC came on, I was locked in for life.
Dead Skin Mask is a must! That song is some of the coolest darkest poetic metal story telling you will ever have the pleasure of hearing.
Dead Skin Mask
Probably one of my favorite songs
Slayer is so good live. They’ll blast you with 6 songs before they even say a word to the crowd. No gimmicks, just flawless metal from start to finish at their shows.
I went to a concert in the early 90s that was Testament, Megadeth and Slayer as the headliner. It was hands down the craziest, most insane concert I’ve been to and we had floor seats. Testament and Megadeth are two of my favorite bands, they were great. However, when Slayer hit the stage, the entire atmosphere just switched on a dime. Within the first 2 minutes of the first song, a fight broke out about three rows ahead of us.
Everyone was standing on their chairs, and this girl in front of my friend lost her balance and fell backwards. My friend instinctively caught her to keep her from falling and her boyfriend turned around and looked at us like he was ready to throw down. It woulda been 3 of us on just him if it came to it but thankfully his girl immediately explained what happened and he cooled right down. He was pretty big, so it wouldn’t have been a fun time.
The fight in front of us and that guy almost coming after us are the two things that stand out about that concert besides the drums. The drums when Slayer came on were hitting so hard. You could feel the bass drum in your chest like someone was thumping on it. That was such a weird feeling. There was a huge mosh pit near the front but that goes with the territory. Honestly it was a great concert but probably the scariest crowd I’ve ever been a part of concert wise.
I saw Slayer about five years ago. I was pretty far back in the bleachers. No joke though, some dude just dropped to the ground in the aisle during one of their songs and started doing the worm. It was the absolute last thing I would have expected, but I laughed my ass off. Good times.
I saw Slayer with Megadeth and Anthrax.
I'd have gladly traded Anthrax for Testament.
@@suicyconaut Testament was phenomenal. Most of the crowd was there for Slayer, that was obvious by how they behaved during Testament and Megadeth. While I liked Slayer, I was there for Testament and Megadeth more than Slayer. I wasn’t disappointed by either of them. Slayer didn’t disappoint either, but the way fans acted was when they hit the stage.
@@AtomicZn The worm? That woulda made me pause a second before I lost my shit laughing at how random it was. I definitely would rather see a crowd clear a space for that rather than the people pummeling each other that I got, for sure.
Clash Of The Titans Tour! Baltimore Arena early 90`s was my first concert AIC opened the show Facelift was still brand new. GD Amazing. But yes there was a palpable difference when Slayer blesses the stage.
I always liked this song but never really thought about how funky the groove they lay down in it is until I heard you guys break it down. Awesome work, guys.
I think you guys would like "At Dawn They Sleep", from the "Hell Awaits" album. It has a funky-groove vibe to it, and some fantastic drumming by Lombardo.
Thisss!!!
Yesss
That and Piece By Piece are my two favorite Slayer tracks.
Hell Awaits is the heaviest riff ever!
They would like the groovy midsection but I''m not sure if they would dig that clunky main riff
When you describe these riffs as "Nasty and Filthy" and sounds really good in a Killer way, you guys are getting it. This is what Metal is about. 🤟🏻👊🏻
Imagine George and Ryan in the mosh pit!!
Totally possible.
@@metalmike570 yup, would love to see that!
"Behind the Crooked Cross" should be your next one from South of Heaven.
Behind the crooked cross by sabbat is also 🔥
It doesn't matter what color you are, music brings us together!!! Let's just live in piece!
I think the most underrated slayer song that absolutely needs recognition is Gemini. I think y’all would go wild to that one for sure
100%
Truth
Completely agree, thats one of my fav out of whole slayer catalogue
Agree !! Undisputed Attitude is great, I don't know why it gets so much hate from Slayer fans .
Sure it's a covers album but it's a total banger.
This whole album is sick. Lombardo on those drums perfectly insane :P
shout out to Rick Rubin for his production on this album also def jams. also to hanneman (rip) who wrote most of the music on this release.
Didn't know that. It makes all the sense now.
Jeff and Kerry have co-credits for almost all the songs on this album. Spill the blood and behind the crooked cross are the only two written solely by Jeff.
Dave Lombardo is Cuban American and his style is so original, you can tell when you hear any other guys play with Slayer. Dave Lombardo is the best drummer on earth. And i know about history and jazz drummers… No way…Lombardo 💕💕💕💕💕
The version they played of this at the Clash of the Titans Birmingham NEC gig in 1990 is still in my top 3 live tracks ever. On point, tight, intense. A real hairs up on the back of your neck moment!
My very best friend and fellow slayer head passed away only a few hours ago. Laying here, I was so happy to see this in my feed as I reflect. Seeing 2 great friends enjoying a slayer song for the first time was just what the dr ordered. You asked why this wasn't higher on the list and the answer is... it's medium thrash lol
Outro is so much better live. He starts speaking it and slowly increases to screaming out the lyrics. Gives you chills every time
Yeah that part is savage on decade of aggression🤘🏻
Slayer is one of my all-time favorites! I think you guys would dig the songs Blood Red, Expendable Youth, Postmortem, Spirit in Black and Dissident Aggressor.
Slayer- Dead Skin Mask, Y'all would jam tf out !!
So fkn awesome that you guys talk about Lombardo right away. Drums on Slayer are always great, but that album he is on FIRE! Serious Metal groove that he provides makes Slayer really unique.
Cult Of Luna - I: The Weapon
South of Heaven is such a HIGHLY underrated album!
If you ask me it's only second to Reign in Blood .
Stone cold classic!!
Great reaction guys to a great song! You should also consider Ghosts of War off of this same album. Total banger. Also, if you want to try something a bit newer from them, try Bloodline.
Ghosts of war is my favorite Slayer song
They would love Ghosts of War, specifically the second half of the song for sure
@@Kanglar I think that Sprit In Black is the best choice for them. Who knows though lol
Hell YES!
Great Slayer track. The Hatebreed cover of Ghosts of War is a ripper as well
I love remembering my own first reactions to these tunes by watching you guys. Slayer rules!!
You guys really should do "Silent Scream" from the same album. Dave Lombardo's drumming on that one is insane. (It is also my favourite Slayer song).
great choice, def best track on SOH, and while not my fav, in the top 5
YES,YES,YES
Yes!! SS has clearer mix, for me SS was a upgrade of AoD.
That’s the one.
I know they already did South of Heaven but if they decided to do Silent Scream, they should play South of Heaven before because the transition between both the songs is amazing and seamless.
I always wanted you to do this one!!!!!!! This is their greatest as far as a nice groove going!!!! Nice treat!!!
Great one guys! Listen to a live version of this song. During that end section Tom always ramps up the vocals until he's screaming the words. It has all the energy I think you felt it was missing towards the end. It's intense!
For me the end is great because I like to think that he sings like that because soldiers loose sensibility, he describes horrible things like if it was just another day
It's great you guys loving metal! When I was young in the late 80s we had our
Jean jackets full of different band patches and pins and at the partys we always had great music playing from slayer, beastie boys,, primus, dead Kennedys ,mercyful fate, nwa, overkill, dead milkmen, black sabbath and on and on it truly was a great time to live!
Another example of why listening to metal like they were 'Hit' songs might not be the best way to consume it. In the context of the entire album the outro makes total sense as it's the final song on side A. And when you factor in the fact that most of us listened to cassette tapes back then it makes even more sense. Plus, like many Slayer albums, the ENTIRE ALBUM is a "banger"...i could never listen to just one song from this album in a single sitting. It's all about context.
👍👍👍🤟🤟🤟
I've always said for some damn reason everytime I've seen Slayer play live the sky opens and it starts raining and the wind is perfect. I don't ever forget that when I listen to them anytime. They kick ass!
For a taste of their later works you should do World Painted Blood. It's the title track on the last album they made with Jeff and it's groove is NASTY!
Brilliant album, love "Hate Worldwide" and "Americon"
That album and Christ Illusion are as good as their 80s albums.
Hell Awaits - the most bad ass sound of all Slayer discography.
Behind The Crooked Cross is a really good anti-war song. It moves me every time.
I remember in 1988 borrowing a Public Enemy tape and it having a def jam sampler leaflet in it.
As well as the other artists there was a picture of 4 hairy arsed dudes.
So I borrowed a copy of this album from my local library (public libraries in the UK lent tapes and Vinyl as well as books) to wonder what a metal band on a rap label would sound like.
It blew my 15 year old mind!
You are correct, none of the other bands come even close to the intensity and aggression of Slayer live. Also as you said you can't put them in a poll with other bands. Slayer is only for the hardcore. The other bands especially Metallica will always win in a poll. They are very mainstream, even people that didn't listen to metal would listen to Metallica, but never Slayer. Slayer is the ultimate thrash band in my opinion! Also, been with you guys since the beginning of your channel and have suggested this song many times :-) One of my favorites.
Kreator live is maybe even more intense and aggressive than Slayer
I was in high school when this album came out... I was smiling ear to ear waiting for you to get to the filthy main riff. That groove hits SO HARD! 2 of my favs are "Hallowed Point" and "War Ensamble" off their Seasons In the Abyss album.
On another note, so many people hear the title of the song, and say "Oh my GAWD! They want people to commit suicide!" But you're right, it is about soldiers in a war, following orders and being killed. My favorite Metallica song (Disposable Heroes) is basically the same idea.
Harvester of sorrow, In my darkness hour, and Operation Mindcrime are all incredible songs
I really love that you guys do this, so many people wouldn’t even consider listening to these heavy metal songs purely based on that fact that they are metal and not what they are “supposed” to be listening too or isn’t “cool” you 2 rock
Wow. Interesting choice. And you are totally right. Nobody else sounds like Slayer. All of their songs have a sinister, dare I say, "evil" feel.
This is the traditional path of a Slayer fan. At first, everything just sounds like noise. Then you come back to them and you start to understand the musical aspect. when you come back for third or fourth listen, Slayer has you hooked. Great video guys, I’ve loved seeing you both develop over time!
That's metal in general, most of it just sounds like noise to the untrained ear but as your listening ability develops, you hear it differently and "get it" and this is more prevalent with Slayer than any other band. Most people accused them of just spamming E note riffs and playing sporadic random-note solos but when you really dig deep and listen they had so much more musical talent than they were ever rightfully given credit for.
I totally agree on the ending 💯 that took me completely out of the song amd Ryan's idea of having that at the beginning spot on. Great reaction guys!
You should remember that in the time when this song was released people were listening to music in a little bit different way than now. We were listening albums as a whole. Singles in metal music were not popular. So every song sounds a bit different if you hear it in the context of other from the same album. Even this ending does. Regards from Poland 👊
in concert though, the ending seems like a whole new song. Slayer is very talented at taking lackluster album parts and breathing a whole new life into them live. The vocals are really delivered powerfully and the drums usually become equally chaotic. That combined with the light show, and it becomes one of the highlights of the concert.
I’ve been watching your guys videos for almost 2 years. I love what you guys do. It’s amazing to see your journey through music.
My first slayer show was in Oakland, in 1989 I think, they were recording Decade of Aggression, it was fkn insane. Blood everywhere, before they started the prop blood. Now understanding the difference between Slayer and Queensryche, you understand why thrash fans resent the "metal" reference.
Such a damn good album! Just recommended it to them!
the production on south of heaven is the highest level that the band reached. there is some very nice work done on these tracks a lil tricks in the prod. its recorded like a big rock album and less like a traditional underground metal release.
Phenomenal album 👏 that needs more attention. Well done
Your right. In concert SLAYER DOMINATES EVERYONES MINDS N THEY GO FREAKING CRAZY. 100 bands can play all day but when Slayer plays last n always last best because they are the BEST Thrash Metal Band EVER N ALWAYS WILL BE 💪🤟 a Klm all attitude comes out n everyone’s minds are melted by the metal!!!!!
I used to work with Dave's daughter at an animal hospital. Never met him, but he is definitely one of the best drummers ever. A real pioneer of double bass and "metal" drumming.
You worked with his daughter and didn’t request a meet??????
@@gpet23 Dude, I ain't some obsessed fan boy. I worked with her, but she is like 20 years younger than me, we didn't hang out.... Plus how often do you think her dad is around? He was touring doing shows, interviews, jet setting, you know? Anyway, if I was going to a concert with her and her dad was there, of course I would be like, get me back stage.
Postmortem, Black Magic, Angel Of Death, Ghosts Of War, are allllll amazing Slayer songs, give them a try, just amazing.
Slayer is my top 2 to see live, unfortunatly, they retired 😭💔
you guys would love the entire "South Of Heaven" album. All the songs are along the same line that you seem to really enjoy. That slow groovy sound.
Man I love you guys. Your recognition of badass riffs is just fantastic!!!! Keep it going brothers!!!!
If you like the songs South of Heaven and Mandatory Suicide, you gotta hear Die By the Sword. Pure anthemic metal groove. Slayer rules.
You guys have exactly what I'm looking for in reactions - it's like jamming out and appreciating the music with two other guys, it's great
Loooong time ago, KNAC (LA radio) used to play this song on Mother's Day. :D
It was a sad day when KNAC changed format. It ended with "Fade to Black," then suddenly it was all Mexican ranchera.
if u remember kmet going off the air,a long long time ago .then u are old as dirt.
KNAC 105.5...Pure Rock!
@@MrKawika64 Unfknblvbl
@@MrKawika64 kmet wz an old rock radio station in Los Angeles ,along wth klos. they went off the air a longgg time ago. I think sum of their desire went to klos
I was blessed to see the original Slayer line up. They were absolutely amazing. 🙏🏽
The influence Rick Rubin had on this album is very much felt. I think the guys like Slayer songs from this album is because they’re slowed down but heavier and that’s the Rick Rubin influence
Never hear anyone talk about this song. One of my favs since it came out! You can feel every second of it. Thank you!
fight fire with fire- Metallica, underrated song but it's something not many expect of them. Heavy for sure
I can tell u right now that they won't like it.
Something that not many expect from them? Maybe now, but this is what ppl expected from them back then!
I love the way mandatory suicide ends. I think it's a perfect outro to that song! It's one of my favorite songs off that album!
Lombardo is one of my long time favs if not the most fav. Do Reign in Blood entire album beginning to end in one sitting. It's still the high water mark.
Thrilled to see how far you fellas have come. Saw your Angel of Death reaction other day and that was 2 years back. You def didn’t know HOW to receive so much eargasm then. Love to see y’all bangin to real metal today. Horns up, brothers🔥
Glad you guys did this one. Definitely a classic and one of my favorite Slayer songs.
Two quick comments:
1) Yeah, Dave Lombardo is an absolute beast. In my opinion, he's the best of the entire crop of thrash metal drummers, in the top five of any list of best overall metal drummers, and maybe should be in discussion for one of the greatest rock drummers of all time.
2) It's funny what you said about the energy being different when Slayer takes the stage. It's really true. I've been to a LOT of metal shows, and I've seen Slayer maybe eight or ten times if you include festival appearances. And I love Slayer. Love them. But every time they're about to go on, I actually feel just a little bit nervous. It's a good kind of nervous, but there's a sort of anticipation of exactly how hard my face is about to be shredded off. Once they actually start playing and I'm into the sound, the nervousness goes away and I have a great time. But for about 10 minutes before they go on, I'm like "Wait, was my mom right about 'devil music'?" XD
This is my favorite Slayer album, has the best, most atmospheric sound, every song kills.
Great reaction, guys! Please check out "No Place for Disgrace" by the band Flotsam and Jetsam! It's the title track from their 2nd album released in 1988, and it's about Japanese Samurai warriors. Jason Newsted formed this band before joining Metallica in 1986 after Cliff Burton (bassist) died in a bus accident. Flotsam and Jetsam are still going strong. They released their 14th album last June. Thanks!
I've met half of flotsam and jetsam I live in the Phoenix area where they are from
🤟🤟🤟🤟👍👍👍
From "is too much I don't f with this"
To "the real deal😎"
The natural path of any metal guy.
I think these guys would dig Seasons in the Abyss tracks even more.
I don't know about "even more"but, at least, as much. Those albums had very similar styles.
Can't believe that I spent a couple of hours listening to you guys talk over my favorite band's music, Slayer, and actually enjoyed it! You've got a new subscriber. I'll be back to check out your other shit.
Seen them a dozen times. And there is a crazy aura when they take the stage. Atmosphere of the entire venue changes.
This band is such a guilty pleasure for me, I love that you two are doing reactions on Slayer !
Drumming on this whole album is sick AF
Saw some of their last few shows live... they were really good, and grateful to the fans. I hope they come back soon. Good tune.
This is my favorite song on "South of Heaven" ("Behind the Crooked Cross" a very close second) and I completely agree with ya'lls analysis. The outro should have been the intro. That song would have a much more fluid end section had they recorded it in that way. 80's gonna 80's though
Slayer essentials! Live Undead, Hell Awaits, At Dawn They Sleep, Die By The Sword ⚔️