Slayer's Seasons In The Abyss, released on 1 January 1990, is a sonic onslaught that embodies the very essence of thrash metal. This 42-minute masterpiece, courtesy of American Recordings Catalog P&D, is a testament to the band's unwavering dedication to their craft. With a diverse range of genres woven throughout, including metal, speed metal, heavy metal, groove metal, and death metal, Seasons In The Abyss is an unrelenting aural assault that refuses to be pigeonholed.
From the opening salvo of 'War Ensemble' to the closing notes of the title track, Slayer's signature sound is on full display. Tom Araya's menacing vocals and Kerry King's and Jeff Hanneman's dual guitar attack are the perfect foil to Dave Lombardo's pummelling drums, creating a maelstrom of sound that is at once both beautiful and brutal.
With tracks like 'Blood Red', 'Spirit In Black', and 'Dead Skin Mask', Slayer showcases their ability to craft songs that are both aggressive and nuanced, with a keen sense of dynamics and texture. The album's mid-section, featuring 'Hallowed Point' and 'Skeletons Of Society', is a particular highlight, with the band's ability to balance melody and mayhem on full display.
Throughout Seasons In The Abyss, Slayer's technical proficiency and musical chemistry are evident, making for a listening experience that is both exhilarating and exhausting. With its unyielding intensity and unwavering commitment to the principles of heavy metal, Seasons In The Abyss is a must-listen for fans of the genre, and a powerful testament to Slayer's status as one of the most influential and beloved metal bands of all time.
Vinylscout