What makes Reign in Blood by Slayer notable?

'Reign in Blood' is often hailed as one of the most influential albums in heavy metal history, frequently appearing in discussions about essential thrash records. It reached number 94 on the Billboard 200 chart and has been acclaimed by critics for its uncompromising themes and sonic ferocity, shaping the sound of extreme metal for years to come. By the time 'Reign in Blood' was released in 1986, Slayer had already established themselves as a leading force in thrash metal with their previous album 'Hell Awaits'. This third studio release marked a significant evolution in their sound, characterized by tighter songwriting and increased aggression, solidifying their position at the forefront of the genre.

Who is Reign in Blood for?

Reign in Blood works well if you're into intense emotional experiences, short, impactful listening bursts and high-energy workout motivation.

How many songs are on Reign in Blood?

Reign in Blood has 12 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

Released 40 years ago this October

Reign in Blood

Slayer · 1986

34 min · 12 tracks · thrash metal

A relentless barrage of lightning-fast riffs and brutal lyrics, epitomizing the raw energy of thrash metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Angel of Death — This track opens the album with a chilling narrative about Dr. Josef Mengele, showcasing Slayer's penchant for controversial themes alongside blistering instrumentation.
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Raining Blood — The climactic centerpiece features a haunting instrumental intro that builds tension before launching into furious riffs, exemplifying Slayer's mastery of atmosphere and aggression.
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Jesus Saves — In this track, Slayer critiques religious hypocrisy through visceral lyrics and frenetic rhythms, making it a standout representation of their thematic boldness.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

79 /100

Summit

Higher than 99% of albums we've rated

This album exemplifies thrash metal's intensity and precision, making it a landmark release in the genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with 'Angel of Death', which features rapid-fire drumming and aggressive guitar riffs that set a relentless pace.
The final track, 'Raining Blood', features a dramatic shift in dynamics, starting with a slow build-up before exploding into fast-paced aggression.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 8/10

Defined its genre or moment. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

intense emotional experiences
short, impactful listening bursts
high-energy workout motivation
aggressive, cathartic release

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified Slayer's status in thrash metal, gaining them wider recognition.
Themes: Nazi war crimes· religious hypocrisy· apocalyptic imagery
Career context: By the time 'Reign in Blood' was released in 1986, Slayer had already established themselves as a leading force in thrash metal with their previous album 'Hell Awaits'. This third studio release marked a significant evolution in their sound, characterized by tighter songwriting and increased aggression, solidifying their position at the forefront of the genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Megadeth· Anthrax· Testament