Slayer, the legendary thrash metal band, unleashed their tenth studio album, "God Hates Us All," on January 1, 2001, under American Recordings Catalog P&D. Clocking in at a concise 42 minutes, this album is a relentless journey through a variety of metal subgenres, including thrash, speed, heavy, groove, and death metal, showcasing Slayer's versatility and brutality.
The album opens with "Disciple," setting the tone for the intense and aggressive soundscape that follows. Tracks like "God Send Death" and "New Faith" deliver crushing riffs and rapid-fire drumming, while "Cast Down" and "Threshold" showcase the band's ability to blend melodic elements with their signature heaviness. "Exile" and "Seven Faces" offer a more atmospheric and haunting approach, demonstrating Slayer's range.
Lyrically, "God Hates Us All" delves into dark and provocative themes, with songs like "Bloodline," "Deviance," and "War Zone" exploring the darker aspects of human nature and societal issues. The album closes with "Here Comes The Pain" and "Payback," leaving listeners with a sense of the band's unyielding intensity and musical prowess.
Produced by Slayer and Terry Date, known for his work with bands like Pantera and Deftones, the album's production is crisp and powerful, ensuring that every instrument and vocal is heard with clarity and impact. The artwork, featuring a striking image of a skull with a serpent, encapsulates the album's dark and aggressive themes.
"God Hates Us All" is a testament to Slayer's enduring influence and innovation in the metal genre. It's an essential addition to any metal fan's collection, offering a raw and uncompromising listening experience that highlights the band's continued relevance and impact.