After the disbandment of Slayer in 2019, many wondered what path guitarist Kerry King would take. In 2024, he answered with a powerful statement: his debut solo album, “From Hell I Rise,” released on May 17 under Reigning Phoenix Music.
Assembling a Metal Dream Team
King didn’t embark on this journey alone. He enlisted a lineup of seasoned musicians to bring his vision to life:
- Vocals: Mark Osegueda of Death Angel
- Guitars: Phil Demmel, formerly of Vio-lence and Machine Head
- Bass: Kyle Sanders from Hellyeah
- Drums: Paul Bostaph, King’s longtime collaborator from Slayer
The production helm was taken by Josh Wilbur, renowned for his work with Lamb of God, Megadeth, and Gojira.
Crafting the Album
The creative process for “From Hell I Rise” began as early as 2020. By June 2023, the album was complete, but King chose to perfect every detail before its 2024 release. The result is a 46-minute thrash metal journey that echoes the intensity of Slayer while carving out its own identity.
Charting Success
Upon release, “From Hell I Rise” made significant impacts on various charts:
- Australia: #8 on Digital Albums, #25 on Physical Albums
- Japan: #27 on Digital Albums, #26 on Hot Albums
- Sweden: #7 on Hard Rock Albums, #9 on Physical Albums
- USA: #9 on Top Album Sales and Top Current Album Sales, #2 on Heatseekers Albums, #7 on Indie Store Album Sales, #11 on Top Hard Rock Albums
These rankings underscore the album’s global resonance and the enduring legacy of King’s artistry.
Critical Acclaim
Critics have lauded “From Hell I Rise” for its relentless energy and masterful musicianship. The album has been described as a “well-crafted debut that leaves no room for boredom,” showcasing King’s ability to evolve while staying true to his thrash roots.
Looking Ahead
With “From Hell I Rise,” Kerry King has not only honored his past but also set the stage for a new era in metal. Fans eagerly anticipate live performances and future projects from this legendary guitarist.
