Full Breakdown
Slayer Celebrates 40th Anniversary of *Reign in Blood* with Exclusive U.S. Concerts
4/21/2026, 8:23:54 PM
Special Concert Dates Announced
Thrash metal band Slayer has announced two exclusive U.S. concerts to commemorate the 40th anniversary of their influential album *Reign in Blood*. The performances will take place on September 4, 2026, at Mystic Lake Amphitheater in Shakopee, Minnesota, and on November 13, 2026, at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California. These concerts will feature the full album played live, marking Slayer's first Los Angeles show in seven years.
The Shakopee concert will include support from Suicidal Tendencies, Down, and Hatebreed, while the Los Angeles show will feature Cannibal Corpse, Cavalera, and Crowbar. Tickets for both events will go on sale to the general public on April 24, 2026, at 10 a.m. local time, with presales beginning on April 21 and 22.
Background of *Reign in Blood*
Released on October 7, 1986, *Reign in Blood* is Slayer's third studio album and is widely regarded as a seminal work in the thrash metal genre. The album's production, led by Rick Rubin, helped define Slayer's sound, with tracks like "Angel of Death" and "Raining Blood" becoming iconic within the metal community. The album faced initial release delays due to concerns over its graphic artwork and controversial lyrical content, particularly regarding "Angel of Death," which references the actions of Nazi doctor Josef Mengele.
Despite the controversies, *Reign in Blood* has been praised for its intensity and has been certified gold by the RIAA for sales exceeding 500,000 copies. It peaked at No. 94 on The Billboard 200 chart, marking Slayer's first entry into the rankings.
Significance of the Anniversary Concerts
The upcoming concerts are significant as they represent the only U.S. performances where *Reign in Blood* will be played in its entirety, distinguishing them from Slayer's festival appearances throughout the year, which will feature different setlists. Slayer's return to the stage has been selective since their final tour in 2019, making these events particularly noteworthy for fans.
Official Statements & Responses
Slayer's management has emphasized the rarity of these performances, stating, "These shows will stand as the only U.S. performances of the special 'Reign In Blood' anniversary show." The band has expressed excitement about revisiting the album, with drummer Dave Lombardo previously describing it as a "masterpiece" that will "stand the test of time."
Criticism & Opposition
While *Reign in Blood* is celebrated by many, it has also faced criticism for its lyrical themes. Critics have raised concerns about the implications of songs like "Angel of Death," which some interpret as glorifying violence. Slayer members have consistently defended their artistic choices, asserting that their work is intended to provoke thought rather than endorse any ideology.
What's Next
Following these anniversary concerts, Slayer is expected to continue their festival appearances, including performances at Rocklahoma and the Sick New World festival in Texas. Fans eagerly anticipate these events as a chance to experience the band's legacy and the impact of *Reign in Blood* on the metal genre.