$30.99
Released on September 11, 2015, Repentless marked Slayer’s eleventh studio album and the first following the death of founding guitarist Jeff Hanneman. As the final Slayer album before the band’s retirement in 2019, it holds a unique place in their discography. With Kerry King taking the lead on songwriting and Gary Holt of Exodus fame stepping in as a full-time guitarist, Repentless is a ferocious, unapologetic addition to Slayer’s legacy.
The Music
The album kicks off with “Delusions of Saviour,” an instrumental prelude that sets a foreboding tone before diving headfirst into the title track, “Repentless.” The latter is a thrash anthem, boasting blistering speed, searing riffs, and Tom Araya’s snarling vocals declaring, “I’m repentless!” It’s a rallying cry for fans and a tribute to the unrelenting nature of Slayer’s ethos.
Tracks like “Take Control” and “Vices” maintain the relentless energy, blending breakneck tempos with dark, aggressive themes. “When the Stillness Comes” slows things down, showcasing a haunting and brooding atmosphere that provides a moment of contrast. Meanwhile, “You Against You” and “Pride in Prejudice” bring the album to a crushing close, highlighting the band’s mastery of heavy, riff-driven songwriting.
The standout track, “Piano Wire,” is a poignant moment. It’s the only song written by Hanneman before his death, and its inclusion is both a nod to his influence and a reminder of the void left by his absence.
Performance and Production
Gary Holt’s contributions on guitar are fiery and precise, fitting seamlessly into Slayer’s sound while adding his distinct flair. Paul Bostaph, returning to drums after a hiatus, delivers a thunderous performance that propels the album forward with unrelenting force. Kerry King’s riffing is sharp and aggressive, a testament to his role as the driving creative force behind the album.
Produced by Terry Date, the album boasts a clean yet powerful mix. The production emphasizes the razor-sharp guitars and punishing drums, ensuring that every note hits with maximum impact.
Themes and Legacy
Lyrically, Repentless doesn’t shy away from the themes Slayer has always explored: violence, rebellion, and existential dread. It’s a dark and uncompromising album that feels like a natural evolution of their previous work.
While some fans may lament the absence of Hanneman’s creative input, Repentless is a solid addition to Slayer’s catalog. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel but instead reaffirms what Slayer does best: delivering aggressive, unapologetic thrash metal.
Final Thoughts
Repentless is not just an album—it’s a statement. It’s a reminder of Slayer’s dominance in the metal world and their refusal to compromise, even in the face of loss and change. While it may not reach the heights of classics like Reign in Blood or Seasons in the Abyss, it’s a worthy swan song for one of the most influential bands in metal history.
Only 1 left in stock
Tracklisting:
Disc 1:
Disc 2: DVD
