[7/10]
On the evening of the 23rd April, Slayer decided to surprise the world by releasing their new single ‘Implode’. This is the first new piece of music since 2009’s World Painted Blood, and the first new track since the tragic passing of founding member and guitarist Jeff Hanneman.
The track opens with slow chugs and riffing which highlight the band’s extreme metal influences, and this really helps them stand out from other thrash metal bands. When the band cuts out at the first bridge, leaving just Tom Araya’s vocals building gradually back into the the full band then kicking into a fast paced playing, this is reminiscent of some of their best work. However, the word “reminiscent” does describe the song well; while this is definitely classic Slayer, they have such a unique sound and playing style that it is tough for them to match up to previous highly thought of releases. With the recruitment of Gary Holt from Exodus, there could be more of an evolution of sound on the album, however we will have to wait and see.
Overall this song is Slayer all over, they are the most dependable metal band around and you know exactly what you are getting. It is good but doesn’t stand out as their finest hour, however it is great news the band are still producing new music as they remain one of the most import bands in metal today.
Sam Taylor
