In a recent interview with Brian Aberback of The Aquarian, Kerry King discussed his eagerly awaited return to the live stage, marking a significant comeback five years after Slayer‘s purported final show. Expressing his enthusiasm, King emphasized his passion for performing, despite the inconveniences of travel. He underscored his commitment to delivering top-notch performances, stating, “I’m put here to perform and I enjoy performing.“
King also shed light on his solo project, featuring an impressive lineup including drummer Paul Bostaph (Slayer), bassist Kyle Sanders (Hellyeah), guitarist Phil Demmel (formerly of Machine Head), and vocalist Mark Osegueda (Death Angel). Their debut album, “From Hell I Rise,” slated for release on May 17 via Reigning Phoenix Music, has already stirred anticipation. King revealed his ambitious plans for the future, expressing his intent to promptly hit the studio for a follow-up record, leveraging the band’s post-tour momentum.
Reflecting on his decision to kick off his solo venture with an intimate gig at Reggies in Chicago on May 7, King emphasized the importance of preparation and rehearsal. Opting for a smaller venue allowed the band to acclimate to the live performance setting and work out any kinks before larger festival appearances later in the month.
When queried about the setlist for the upcoming shows, King outlined his intentions to showcase a significant portion of “From Hell I Rise” while interspersing it with select Slayer classics. Acknowledging the variability in set lengths across different venues, King remained focused on delivering a dynamic and memorable performance, ensuring a balance between new material and beloved favorites.