The Making of Hell Awaits by Slayer

Introduction

In the world of thrash metal, few albums resonate with the same enduring intensity as Slayer’s “Hell Awaits.” Released on April 19, 1985, this seminal work cemented Slayer’s reputation as one of the genre’s most formidable forces. Known for its aggressive soundscapes and dark thematic content, “Hell Awaits” stands as a testament to the band’s ability to push musical boundaries and influence the trajectory of heavy metal music.

This article delves into the rich history behind “Hell Awaits,” exploring its creation, recording process, and the lasting impact it has had on the music industry. From the origins of its haunting title to the technical intricacies of its production, we aim to provide an exhaustive exploration of this iconic album.

As a cornerstone of thrash metal, “Hell Awaits” continues to inspire musicians and captivate audiences with its raw energy and innovative compositions. According to Slayer guitarist Kerry King, “We were really trying to push the boundaries with ‘Hell Awaits.’ It was about taking what we had done before and making it more intense, more complex.” The album’s significance is further echoed by peers and critics alike, marking it as a pivotal moment in metal history.

The Genesis of “Hell Awaits”

The mid-1980s was a fertile period for the burgeoning thrash metal scene, with bands like Metallica, Megadeth, and Anthrax defining a new, aggressive sound. Slayer, having already made waves with their debut album “Show No Mercy,” was poised to make an even greater impact with their follow-up. The creative forces within the band—Tom Araya, Kerry King, Jeff Hanneman, and Dave Lombardo—were driven by a desire to push their musical limits and explore darker themes.

Slayer’s journey leading up to “Hell Awaits” was marked by a series of influential releases. Their debut album, “Show No Mercy,” laid the groundwork with its raw energy and speed, while the subsequent EP “Haunting the Chapel” hinted at the more complex and sinister direction the band would take. These works not only solidified their place in the metal community but also set the stage for the more ambitious and intricate compositions of “Hell Awaits.”

The primary creative contributors to “Hell Awaits” were the band members themselves, with Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman taking the lead in songwriting. The album’s themes of hell and Satanism were reflected in both the lyrics and the music, drawing inspiration from bands like Mercyful Fate. The title “Hell Awaits” was conceived as a reflection of these themes, encapsulating the ominous and foreboding nature of the album.

Below is a table detailing the band members and their roles:

The recording of “Hell Awaits” was financed by Metal Blade Records, a significant step up from the band’s debut, which was self-financed. The budget allowed for professional production and engineering, though the band still faced financial challenges typical of independent labels at the time. The album artwork, designed by Albert Cuellar, vividly captured the dark themes explored in the music, further solidifying its iconic status.

Recording Process

Recording an album as ambitious as “Hell Awaits” was no small feat, especially in the mid-1980s. The sessions took place at Eldorado Studios in Los Angeles, a location known for its vintage charm and cutting-edge technology. The studio, established in the 1950s, provided a unique environment that blended the old with the new, offering both traditional analogue equipment and modern recording capabilities.

The key personnel involved in the recording process included producer Brian Slagel, who had previously worked with Slayer on their debut album. Slagel’s experience and vision were instrumental in capturing the band’s raw energy and translating it into a cohesive album. The engineering team, led by Bill Metoyer, faced the challenge of balancing the aggressive sound with the clarity needed to highlight the intricate compositions.

Below is a table of likely hardware used during the recording sessions at Eldorado Studios:

Despite the technical challenges, the recording process was marked by a sense of camaraderie and creativity. An interesting anecdote from the sessions involves Tom Araya mistakenly singing a misspelled word in the lyrics of “At Dawn They Sleep,” which was left in the final recording. Such moments of spontaneity added to the album’s authenticity and raw energy.

Brian Slagel‘s production work extends beyond “Hell Awaits,” having produced numerous albums across various metal subgenres. Below is a table of other albums produced by Slagel:

Commercial Performance and Reception

The release of “Hell Awaits” marked a pivotal moment in Slayer’s career, although it did not initially achieve mainstream commercial success. The album’s dark themes and aggressive sound resonated deeply within the metal community, securing its status as a cult classic. Despite not charting on the Billboard 200, “Hell Awaits” sold approximately 500,000 copies, reflecting its underground appeal and enduring influence.

Below is a table summarizing the sales and release years of notable Slayer albums:

The competitive landscape of 1985 was fierce, with other significant albums from similar artists also making waves. Albums like Ride the Lightning by Metallica and Spreading the Disease by Anthrax were contemporaries that contributed to the thriving thrash metal scene.

• Ride the Lightning by Metallica [Physical Sales: 1 million]
• Spreading the Disease by Anthrax [Physical Sales: 250,000]

Despite its lack of mainstream recognition at the time, “Hell Awaits” has received numerous accolades and recognitions over the years, solidifying its place in metal history.

Singles and Track Analysis

“Hell Awaits” is a complex tapestry of dark themes and intricate compositions, featuring seven tracks that explore the depths of human depravity and the occult. While the album did not spawn any traditional singles, its tracks have become staples in Slayer’s live performances and continue to resonate with fans.

Below is a detailed table of the album’s tracks, including their lengths and writing credits:

While no singles were released from “Hell Awaits,” tracks like “Hell Awaits” and “At Dawn They Sleep” have become fan favourites, frequently performed in live sets and celebrated for their complex arrangements and thematic depth.

Influences and Legacy

“Hell Awaits” is not only a product of its time but also a reflection of its creators’ influences. Drawing inspiration from early heavy metal and horror films, Slayer crafted an album that would become a cornerstone of thrash metal. The aggressive style and dark themes of “Hell Awaits” have left an indelible mark on the genre, influencing countless bands that followed.

Below is a table of the influences on “Hell Awaits” and the artists it influenced:

Released in 1985, “Hell Awaits” emerged during a year marked by significant global events. The discovery of the Titanic’s wreck, the release of Windows 1.0, and the iconic Live Aid concerts all took place in this transformative year. In the world of cinema, films like “Back to the Future” captivated audiences, further underscoring the cultural backdrop against which “Hell Awaits” was released.

Five Things about Hell Awaits

The following table presents five intriguing facts about “Hell Awaits,” highlighting its unique aspects and contributions to the music world:

Media and Television Usage

Despite its influence, “Hell Awaits” remains largely absent from mainstream media usage, with no known instances of its tracks being featured in films or television shows. This absence underscores the album’s cult status and its appeal within niche metal communities.

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

“Hell Awaits” has garnered critical acclaim over the years, with reviewers praising its innovation and intensity. Below is a table summarizing notable reviews:

After Hell Awaits

Following the release of “Hell Awaits,” Slayer’s career trajectory continued to ascend. The band’s next album, “Reign in Blood,” released in 1986, would become one of the most acclaimed works in metal history, further solidifying their legacy. Over the years, Slayer experienced changes in lineup and style, yet they maintained a consistent presence in the metal scene until their retirement from touring in 2019.

As of October 2023, Slayer’s legacy endures, with their music continuing to inspire new generations of metal musicians. While the band has ceased touring, their influence remains omnipresent in the genre they helped define.

Remasters and Reissues

“Hell Awaits” has been remastered and reissued multiple times since its original release, ensuring its availability for new audiences. Below is a table of notable reissues:

These reissues often include remastered audio and, in some cases, additional content such as liner notes or bonus tracks, offering fans a comprehensive experience of the album.

Conclusion

“Hell Awaits” remains a vital piece of Slayer’s discography and a cornerstone of thrash metal. Its innovative compositions and dark themes continue to captivate audiences, ensuring its relevance in the music world today. The album’s influence on the metal genre is undeniable, as it paved the way for more extreme forms of music that followed.

Further Reading:

• Our blog article on Slayer’s “Divine Intervention”
• Our blog article on Slayer’s “South of Heaven”
• Our blog article on Slayer’s “Seasons in the Abyss”
• Our blog article on Slayer’s “Reign in Blood”
• Wikipedia page for “Hell Awaits”
• Official Slayer website
• Metal Blade Records

Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on Hell Awaits by Slayer. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!