“SLAAAAYYYYYERRRRR!”

A primal howl I’ve heard many times over, emanating from a sea of black t’s with devil horns, always in unison and at full force!

That was the scene at The Broadmoor World Arena in Colorado Springs. A multi-generational crowd of metal heads who most likely wore out their necks (and eardrums) as the thrash metal veterans took the stage on their “Final Campaign” tour. True to form, the band whipped up a frenzy. Demonstrating why they became – and continue to remain – a vital and relevant force on the scene. 

Slayer wasted little time getting things off and running. As the curtain dropped the band started in on “Repentless.” Hailing from a somewhat recent album of the same name, the song was speedy and loud and all but set the tone for the rest of the night with its refrain of Live Fast / On High / Repentless / Let it Ride.

The pit was off and swirling as the band proceeded to charge through a varied set that sampled music spanning their decade(s) long career. A few highlights from the night included ‘World Painted Blood’, ‘When the Stillness Comes’, ‘Born of Fire’ and ‘Raining Blood’. The band kept the energy at max intensity with flashing lights, fireballs and waves of fog filling up the stage. 

Slayer appeared adamant that this will indeed be their last time on the circuit. If that’s true, the metal world will be minus one of it’s most powerful and dynamic touring acts. Perhaps they’ll continue to show up at the occasional festival, or play some smaller shows for old times’ sake. One can only hope but if so, I’ll be there.

Article & Photos by Tina Hagerling