The Influence of Slayer's 'Haunting the Chapel' on Extreme Metal
In the realm of extreme metal, discussions often focus on pivotal albums that set new standards and directions for subgenres. One such discussion centers on the impact of Slayer's 'Haunting the Chapel' EP on the genre. However, it's important to consider the broader context of Slayer's career and how their earlier albums influenced extreme metal.
Slayer's Pioneering Role in Extreme Metal
Slayer's influence on extreme metal cannot be overstated. Their 1983 album, 'Show No Mercy,' is often cited as being pivotal in shaping the sound and direction of extreme metal. Many consider 'Reign in Blood' (1986) as the definitive album, laying the groundwork for the genre that evolved into death metal. However, it was the release of 'Haunting the Chapel' EP in 1984 that marked a significant milestone in Slayer's career.
Impact of 'Haunting the Chapel'
'Haunting the Chapel' EP was a crucial release that solidified Slayer's position in the extreme metal community. Its impact was more pronounced on the American death metal scene than on thrash metal. Alongside 'Show No Mercy' and its follow-up 'Hell Awaits,' 'Haunting the Chapel' is considered a significant blueprint for death metal. Artists such as Chuck Schuldiner of the legendary band Death and Death and Obituary's guitarist Terry Butler, among others, have cited these Slayer albums as foundational in their development.
Comparing 'Haunting the Chapel' with Previous Albums
'Haunting the Chapel' EP is an important stepping stone in Slayer's legacy, but it is not as revolutionary as some of their later works. Comparatively, their 1986 album 'Reign in Blood' and the 1989 album 'Hell Awaits' are often regarded as Slayer's most influential releases. 'Reign in Blood' introduced a new level of technical proficiency and lyrical brutality, propelling Slayer into a new era of extreme metal. 'Hell Awaits' further solidified their influence on death metal, providing a more technical and groove-oriented approach.
Accessibility and Rarity
'Haunting the Chapel' EP faced challenges with accessibility. Being an EP, it was not as widely recognized or appreciated as Slayer's full-length albums like 'Reign in Blood.' Additionally, the EP's limited availability made it challenging for fans and music historians to appreciate its significance. It took years for this EP to become widely available, and for many, it was a rare find until about a decade ago when it became more accessible.
Conclusion: While 'Haunting the Chapel' EP was a significant release for extreme metal, it is Slayer's later albums such as 'Reign in Blood' and 'Hell Awaits' that truly cemented their status as pioneers of the genre. 'Haunting the Chapel' is part of a lineage of influential releases that collectively shaped the landscape of extreme metal.