Renowned guitarist Kerry King has unveiled his inaugural solo album, “From Hell I Rise,” scheduled for release on May 17th, accompanied by the premiere single, “Idle Hands.” Alongside this revelation, King has disclosed the assembly of his post-Slayer ensemble.
The official declaration arrives subsequent to King’s symbolic act of leaving his iconic chain on stage at Slayer’s final 2019 concert at The Forum in Los Angeles. Clarifying that Slayer’s retirement was premature, King assured fans of his intention to establish a new solo band, committed to upholding the distinctive sound and ethos of Slayer.
Reflecting on the album in a press release, King articulated, “I knew early on that I wasn’t done,” emphasizing his steadfast commitment to continuing his musical journey.
“Ilde Hands” serves as the inaugural composition from a substantial reservoir of material amassed during the post-Slayer era, a creative period elongated by the constraints imposed by the pandemic. Fans familiar with Slayer’s sonic landscape will readily identify King’s deft guitar work, complete with his characteristic unrestrained solos, resonating closely with the quintessential Slayer ambiance.
For the formation of his new musical venture, King has curated a supergroup of seasoned thrash luminaries, featuring drummer Paul Bostaph (Slayer), bassist Kyle Sanders (Hellyeah), guitarist Phil Demmel (ex-Machine Head), and Mark Osegueda from Death Angel lending his vocal prowess.
The collaboration aligns seamlessly with King’s Slayer-influenced vision, eschewing emulation or tribute, yet preserving the unmistakable essence of his former band. Bostaph, having a history as a Slayer drummer, seamlessly integrates with King’s artistic vision. Meanwhile, Osegueda delivers a distinctive, somewhat punk-inspired vocal style, a departure from the more aggressive tones associated with Tom Araya.
Osegueda, addressing fans on Facebook, expressed pride in his contributions to “From Hell I Rise” while assuring them of his ongoing commitment as the lead vocalist of Death Angel.
Produced by Josh Wilbur (renowned for his work with Korn and Lamb of God), the album was predominantly recorded at Henson Studios in Los Angeles within a concise two-week period last summer. King hinted at the album’s thematic diversity, exploring religious topics, war narratives, alongside elements of punk, doom, and eerie atmospheres, all executed at formidable speeds.
Wilbur, reflecting on the collaboration with King, acknowledged the guitarist’s confidence and directness in articulating his creative vision. The producer emphasized enjoying the experience of working with a rock star of King’s stature.
This debut solo endeavor marks just the onset of King’s solo trajectory, with numerous unfinished compositions awaiting fruition. Live performances, scheduled at Welcome to Rockville on May 9th and Sonic Temple Festival on May 16th, stand as the inaugural showcases for King’s solo band.
King, reflecting on his enduring passion, asserted, “This is what I know how to do…number one being music, number two being metal.” With four decades of musical immersion, he declared, “I’m nowhere near being done.”
Enthusiasts can pre-order King’s debut solo album through his online store and immerse themselves in the sonic tapestry of “Idle Hands,” while also exploring the album art and tracklist.
From Hell I Rise Tracklist:
- Diablo
- Where I Reign
- Residue
- Idle Hands
- Trophies Of The Tyrant
- Crucifixation
- Tension
- Everything I Hate About You
- Toxic
- Two Fists
- Rage
- Shrapnel
- From Hell I Rise
