SLAYER’s Hell Awaits: A 40th Anniversary Reissue
SLAYER’s legendary second studio album, Hell Awaits, is set to make a triumphant return with a 40th anniversary reissue, courtesy of Metal Blade Records, arriving in Spring 2026.
The Genesis of SLAYER
Founded in 1981, SLAYER revolutionized the music scene by merging metal and punk into a sound that was heavier, faster, and darker than anything that had come before. This distinctive style not only defined a genre but also established a formidable attitude that set SLAYER apart from their contemporaries. Throughout their illustrious career, the band remained committed to delivering an uncompromising and brutal aural experience, steadfastly resisting mainstream pressures.
The Significance of Hell Awaits
A Defining Moment for SLAYER
Kerry King, the band’s guitarist and co-songwriter, reflects on Hell Awaits as the moment SLAYER truly became themselves. As part of the core lineup alongside vocalist/bassist Tom Araya, guitarist Jeff Hanneman (R.I.P.), and drummer Dave Lombardo, King played an integral role in crafting what is now regarded as one of heavy metal’s defining albums.
Evolution from Show No Mercy
Released in April 1985, Hell Awaits marked a significant evolution from SLAYER’s 1983 debut, Show No Mercy. While their first album served as a mission statement, Hell Awaits showcased a more complex and developed execution of SLAYER’s characteristic speed and aggression. This album’s longer, more progressive arrangements were heavily influenced by Mercyful Fate, resulting in tracks that pushed beyond the usual three-minute formula of their earlier work.
Musical Highlights
Impressive Arrangements and Vocals
One of the standout features of Hell Awaits is its intricate compositions. King notes that the extended length of several tracks was a product of their artistic exploration, with three of the album’s seven songs exceeding six minutes. Tom Araya’s vocal performance is equally noteworthy, as he delivers rapid-fire lyrics with clarity, particularly in tracks like “Kill Again” and “Praise Of Death.”
Details of the 40th Anniversary Reissue
The highly anticipated reissue will be available on May 15, 2026, in three physical formats as well as digitally. Preorders are currently open at metalblade.com/slayer.
Vinyl Box Set
- 3 LPs total: 7-track Hell Awaits + 18-track live bonus audio (Live From Bochum 1985)
- Includes a 60-page book (12” size)
- Mastered and restored from original 1985 production tapes by Patrick W. Engel
- Vinyl color: Fire Splatter
- Features exclusive memorabilia including a replica ticket, tour laminate, posters, and more
“Blood” Filled Liquid Vinyl
- SLAYER store exclusive – limited to 666 copies worldwide
- 7-track Hell Awaits album on “blood” filled liquid vinyl
CD Earbook
- Includes 3 CDs: 7-track Hell Awaits + 18-track live bonus audio
- Features a 60-page book and a poster
Digital Release
The digital release will include both the 7-track Hell Awaits and the 18 live tracks from Bochum 1985.
Track Listing for the 40th Anniversary Edition
- Hell Awaits
- Kill Again
- At Dawn They Sleep
- Praise Of Death
- Necrophiliac
- Crypts Of Eternity
- Hardening Of The Arteries
- (Live Tracks) Hell Awaits, Aggressive Perfector, Captor Of Sin, The Final Command, Kill Again, Crypts Of Eternity, Fight Till Death, Necrophiliac, Haunting The Chapel, Hardening Of The Arteries, Black Magic, and more
Conclusion
As SLAYER prepares to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Hell Awaits, the reissue offers both long-time fans and new listeners a chance to experience the raw power and innovation that defined an era of heavy metal. With exclusive collectibles and remastered tracks, this release is a must-have for any metal aficionado.
FAQs
When will the 40th anniversary edition of Hell Awaits be released?
The reissue is set to be released on May 15, 2026.
Where can I preorder the anniversary edition?
Preorders are available at metalblade.com/slayer.
What formats will the reissue be available in?
The album will be available in a vinyl box set, “blood” filled liquid vinyl, CD earbook, and digitally.
Will there be exclusive content in the reissue?
Yes, the reissue will include live tracks from Bochum 1985 and exclusive memorabilia in the physical formats.
How many copies of the “blood” filled liquid vinyl will be available?
The “blood” filled liquid vinyl is limited to 666 copies worldwide.
