Website: Slayer
The Inside Pulse:
Ahhh, Slayer. What is there to say? They’re legends, they’re stalwarts, and Tom Araya has been using the same stage banter for the last two decades. Similarly, they have always been unwilling to change with the times and instead focus on bringing the Slayer to the table. Christ Illusion is their first release in five years, and they’re still holding to that promise. Considering some of the directional blunders taken by other bands over the years, maybe this isn’t such a terrible idea.
Positives: You want Slayer? This is Slayer. And not only that, but this is Slayer in trademark form. With all the fan complaints over their post-Seasons outings, one can’t complain when they seem aimed specifically to please those who can’t comprehend anything other than Reign In Blood. Opening track “Flesh Storm” and the anti-religion “Cult” do exactly what Slayer does best, and it’s cause for throwing up the horns without a second thought.
Negatives: Yes, it’s Slayer; almost too much so. They make the same mistakes, like the bizarre structuring of “Skeleton Christ” and “Black Serenade,” never mind a distinct lack of nuance. It’s even got its requisite super-blah track, “Catatonia.” One wonders what Slayer could do if they would venture out of their cubbyhole.
Cross-breed: Someone pulled Slayer circa 1990 out of the basement. However, it’s still got that basement smell.
Reason To Buy: SLAYER!!!!! Seriously though, it’s not a bad record and somehow avoids sounding really dated. It’s not adventurous either, but you pretty much know what you’re getting into if you’re considering picking up this record.
