Slayer

Slayer is a pioneering American thrash metal band formed in Huntington Park, California, in 1981. The band is widely regarded as one of the "Big Four" of thrash metal alongside Metallica, Megadeth, and Anthrax. Slayer's music is characterized by fast tempos, aggressive guitar riffs, and dark lyrics often dealing with subjects like war, religion, and serial killers.

The band's line-up has undergone several changes over the years, but founding members Tom Araya (vocals and bass) and Kerry King (guitar) remained consistent fixtures. They were joined by guitarists Jeff Hanneman and later Gary Holt, as well as drummers Dave Lombardo and Paul Bostaph.

Slayer gained prominence with their 1986 album "Reign in Blood," which is considered one of the greatest and most influential thrash metal albums of all time. They continued to release acclaimed albums such as "South of Heaven" (1988), "Seasons in the Abyss" (1990), and "God Hates Us All" (2001).

Throughout their career, Slayer earned a reputation for their intense live performances and controversial imagery. They faced criticism from religious groups and political figures for their lyrics and album artwork, which often featured graphic and provocative themes.

In 2018, Slayer announced their farewell tour, titled "The Final Campaign," marking the end of their extensive career. They played their final show on November 30, 2019, in Los Angeles, bringing an end to over three decades of thrash metal legacy. Despite their retirement, Slayer's impact on the metal genre remains profound, and their music continues to inspire new generations of fans.