Description
Slayer – Haunting the Chapel – Limited Edition of 1000 on Red / White Vinyl Record
Haunting the Chapel is an EP by the legendary thrash metal band Slayer, released on August 4, 1984, through Metal Blade Records. This release marked a significant evolution in Slayer’s sound, pushing them further into the aggressive, high-speed style that would define their legacy. It was a major step up from their 1983 debut album, Show No Mercy, both in terms of production quality and the sheer intensity of the music.
Haunting the Chapel introduced a darker, heavier, and more menacing atmosphere compared to Slayer’s earlier work. The EP showcased faster tempos, intricate riffs, and more aggressive drumming, elements that would come to define thrash metal in the mid-’80s. The guitar work by Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman became more chaotic yet refined, while Tom Araya’s vocals took on a more sinister edge. Dave Lombardo’s drumming, particularly his use of double bass, became a blueprint for extreme metal drumming.
This release is often credited with helping to shape the early death metal sound due to its raw brutality and darker lyrical themes.
Chemical Warfare – One of Slayer’s most iconic tracks, featuring blistering speed and razor-sharp riffs. It became a fan favorite and a staple in their live shows.
Captor of Sin – A fast-paced, thrash anthem with blistering solos and a sinister tone.
Haunting the Chapel – The title track, featuring ominous riffs and eerie, church-themed lyrics.
While only three tracks long, Haunting the Chapel was hugely influential in the thrash and extreme metal scenes. It helped bridge the gap between Show No Mercy and the following full-length album, Hell Awaits (1985), which pushed Slayer even further into the realm of darkness and speed.
The EP also played a major role in defining the sound of the “Big Four” of thrash metal (Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, and Anthrax) and influenced later death and black metal bands. Tracks like “Chemical Warfare” remain live favorites and are often cited as some of the most essential Slayer songs.
Limited to 1000 copies worldwide!
Classic EP on 45 RPMs with original artwork and large poster
Red / White Marbled Vinyl
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Chemical Warfare
Captor of Sin
Haunting the Chapel
Aggressive Prefector
