Legendary thrash metal guitarist Kerry King, co-founder of the iconic group Slayer, wasted no time after the band’s breakup in 2019 and started working on his solo debut album, From Hell I Rise. Some of the ideas for this album were originally conceived during Slayer’s 2015 release Repentless, their final studio album. King collaborated with longtime Slayer drummer Paul Bostaph, enlisting other talented musicians like Mark Osegueda, Kyle Sanders, and Phil Demmel.
Produced by Josh Wilbur, From Hell I Rise is a powerful album that stays true to the signature sound that King has honed over his 40-year career. While there is some freedom in the solo setting, as seen on tracks like “Two Fists,” the new songs still embody the aggressive and intense style that fans have come to expect from King. The recording process was swift, and the album addresses various topics in the world today.
King recently made a triumphant return to the live stage with his new band, performing in Chicago at Reggie’s Rock Club. The intimate show gave fans a taste of the new music alongside classic Slayer tracks like “Chemical Warfare” and “Raining Blood.” The energy in the room was electric, as fans packed the small venue to witness King’s solo debut in person.
In a conversation, King discussed the rehearsal process for the show, the freedom he found in his solo endeavor, and working with new vocalist Mark Osegueda. He talked about the importance of addressing current world issues in his lyrics, as seen in the track “Toxic,” which was inspired by turbulent times during the pandemic and political events.
The album features standout guitar work, including tracks like “Crucifixation,” where King collaborated with guitarist Phil Demmel. The experience of working on the album was positive, with the band’s drummer, Paul Bostaph, being well-prepared for recording, unlike past experiences in Slayer. King expressed his excitement for fans to finally hear the music, hoping they will appreciate the effort put into the creation of From Hell I Rise.
Overall, From Hell I Rise serves as a continuation of King’s musical journey following Slayer’s dissolution, showcasing his evolution as a songwriter and guitarist. The album delivers a blend of intense thrash metal with a touch of punk influence, capturing the raw energy and emotion that has defined King’s music throughout his career. Fans can look forward to experiencing this new chapter in Kerry King’s musical legacy through his solo debut.
