Kerry King's 'From Hell I Rise' review (+ what King said on making the album)

When a metal icon like Kerry King calls, the world listens.

That’s how Metal Hammer found itself in the ominous confines of Freizeitheim Castle in Germany, engaging with one of thrash metal’s most influential figures. King, known for his aggressive riffing as Slayer’s co-founder, is now stepping into the spotlight solo with his debut album From Hell I Rise. Released on May 17, 2024, this record channels Slayer’s raw ferocity while carving a distinctive identity through new collaborations and sonic explorations.

King didn’t just rehash his Slayer days, though his solo band may have inherited some Slayer fans. This album showcases his vision and marks a new chapter in his legendary, unholy career. He’s joined by Mark Osegueda of Death Angel on vocals, Phil Demmel of Machine Head on guitar, Kyle Sanders from Hellyeah on bass, and former Slayer bandmate Paul Bostaph on drums.

As he also noted back in June of 2024: "You don’t have to look far to be p**sed off about something."
Together, King and his band deliver a mix of classic thrash and modern metal energy, evident in tracks like the searing single "Idle Hands" and the intense closer, From Hell I Rise." It's the type of album that has potentially popular tracks alongside some "hidden gem" moments.

Fan Q&A highlights with Kerry King

In the Metal Hammer interview, when asked about his favorite riffs from the album, King points to a standout moment in "Idle Hands," where a late-track guitar break shines. The song is a perfect introduction to the album’s ferocity, blending intricate riffing with blistering solos​ that won't have him accused of being a "sellout."

King also discussed building the band, and how assembling a drama-free, skillful crew was King’s priority. He praises Osegueda’s versatility and the camaraderie within the group, emphasizing the joy of creating music and bonding over post-show drinks​. He also said positive things about Paul Bostaph, noting hat their collaboration dates back to the 1990s when Bostaph first auditioned for Slayer.

Metal-Rules.com describes Bostaph as "a true professional and one of the best drummers on today's metal music scene." Initially overlooked, Paul later proved himself as a powerhouse drummer and has since become integral to King’s music​.

What if King had been in other bands?

Kerry King also discussed what might have been. He mused about hypothetically joining Megadeth, which would have resulted in a very different sound, or even Mercyful Fate, whose dark aesthetics align with his own​.

The album’s character

From Hell I Rise is relentless, with tracks like "Diablo" and "Everything I Hate About You" evoking Slayer’s unrelenting aggression. Yet it also ventures into new territories while blending thrash, hardcore, and punk ("Two Fists"), while feeling more natural than some "heavy metal + hardcore punk" formula.

Osegueda’s vocal range is a significant highlight, adding venomous energy that rivals Slayer’s most intense moments​. And, when it comes to playing Slayer songs live, Osegueda says, "I just try to do my best for the Slayer legacy and the fans who love Slayer."

While some tracks may draw critiques for uninspired lyrics (an allegation that plagues virtually every metal ban album), the overall cohesion and passion in the album make it a formidable debut. After Slayer basically broke up, fans were wondering "Where do we go from here?" Well, at least KIng found an answer for himself, occasional reunions aside. Could King collaborate with Ice-T again?

Kerry King’s distinctive guitar tone and fiery (albeit not particularly melodic) solos remain the centerpiece, firmly establishing him as a titan of metal even outside Slayer’s shadow​. This project not only reaffirms King’s legacy but also hints at exciting possibilities for the future. Whether Slayer’s style could negatively affect the creativity of his solo work remains uncertain, but for now, From Hell I Rise cements King as a master of the genre he helped define​.