R.I.P. Jeff Hanneman of Slayer

On the morning of Thursday, May 2nd 2013, Slayer guitarist Jeff Hanneman died from liver failure near his home in Southern California. He was 49 years old. The incredibly fast and heavy guitar player for THE heaviest thrash metal band in the world today will be dearly missed by his fellow, founding bandmates: Tom Araya (bass/vocals), Kerry King (guitar) and Dave Lombardo (drums). Back in early 2011, Jeff had contracted necrotizing fasciitis. which originated from a spider bite, which may have led to his untimely death. Since then, Gary Holt of Exodus has been filling in for Jeff. Slayer was founded in 1981 in Huntington Park, California. Noted for their ultra-heavy, aggressive style and "break-neck" speed, including fast tremolo picking and double bass drumming, Slayer became one of the most successful thrash metal bands int he world earning their place in the "Big 4" of thrash metal alongside Anthrax, Megadeth, and Metallica. Hanneman was a key member in Slayer and was one of the main contributors to their musical arrangement and lyrics. Slayer has been regarded as one of the most influential metal bands, giving rise to some of the heavier/hardcore metal bands of the 1990's. Among the band's two Grammy awards and three nominations, Hanneman and King were ranked number 10 in Guitar World's "100 greatest metal guitarists of all time" in 2004, and were also voted "Best Guitarist/Guitar Team" in Revolver's reader's poll. With the death of their friend, brother and bandmate, it is uncertain what the future will hold for Slayer, but to quit now would only dishonor the memory of him who would want the band to continue to bring their music to the world.

Earlier today, Slayer issued a statement on their Facebook page of their tragic loss:

"Slayer is devastated to inform that their bandmate and brother, Jeff Hanneman, passed away at about 11AM this morning near his Southern California home. Hanneman was in an area hospital when he suffered liver failure. He is survived by his wife Kathy, his sister Kathy and his brothers Michael and Larry, and will be sorely missed.
Our Brother Jeff Hanneman, May He Rest In Peace (1964 - 2013)"

Update: On May 10th, it was confirmed that Jeff hanneman died of liver failure caused by alcohol.



 

LINKS: Slayer Official Website,