Slayer tore through Villa Park at Black Sabbath’s final show with a relentless six-song onslaught—a savage salute of thrash fury and Sabbath respect that electrified Birmingham
When Slayer took the stage at Villa Park on July 5, 2025, as part of Black Sabbath’s legendary “Back to the Beginning” farewell, the atmosphere was already electric. Fans from across the globe gathered for this historic celebration of heavy metal, knowing that any band sharing the bill with Sabbath would have to deliver something extraordinary. Slayer, with their reputation for ferocious live shows, did not disappoint.
The band kicked off their set in classic fashion, launching straight into “Disciple.” Instantly, the crowd erupted. Tom Araya’s fierce vocals and Kerry King’s razor-sharp guitar riffs cut through the evening air, setting the tone for what would become one of the most memorable thrash metal performances in recent memory.
Not content with just playing their classics, Slayer surprised everyone by diving into a deep cut from Black Sabbath’s early years. Their cover of “Wicked World” was a powerful tribute to Sabbath’s influence and drew huge cheers from those who recognized the song. It was a fitting nod to the pioneers who made nights like this possible.
From there, the energy only escalated. “War Ensemble” followed, with its relentless tempo and pounding drums sending the mosh pits into overdrive. Security had their hands full as wave after wave of fans threw themselves into the chaos, celebrating Slayer’s signature brand of controlled mayhem.
As they transitioned from “Wicked World” into their own “South of Heaven,” it was clear the band had carefully curated their setlist to honor both the past and their own legacy. This seamless blend of Sabbath homage and Slayer intensity captured the spirit of the night perfectly.
The set reached a fever pitch with “Raining Blood,” a song that has become a rite of passage for metal fans everywhere. The familiar opening notes sent shivers through the audience, and as the song thundered to life, it felt as if the entire stadium was moving in unison.
By the time “Angel of Death” closed out Slayer’s appearance, there was no doubt that the band had left an indelible mark on the evening. Fans screamed the lyrics at the top of their lungs, lost in the moment as Slayer delivered each riff with surgical precision and raw emotion.
Throughout their performance, Slayer’s respect for Black Sabbath was evident—not just in their choice of cover, but in the reverence with which they approached the entire event. This was more than just another show; it was a heartfelt salute to the band that made heavy metal possible.
The band’s chemistry on stage was undeniable. Even after decades of performing together, Araya, King, and the rest of the group moved as a single unit, their timing and passion never faltering. For many in attendance, this was a reminder of why Slayer remains one of the most beloved names in metal.
Social media buzzed as clips of the “Wicked World” cover quickly spread online. Fans and critics alike praised Slayer’s bold song choice and their willingness to step outside their comfort zone for such a meaningful occasion. It was a gesture that did not go unnoticed by the Sabbath faithful.
The atmosphere at Villa Park was nothing short of electric. Pyrotechnics lit up the night sky, and the crowd’s energy was matched only by the ferocity of the music pouring from the stage. Everywhere you looked, fans were headbanging, throwing horns, and soaking in every second of this historic night.
As Slayer left the stage, they were greeted with a deafening ovation. The band took a moment to soak it all in, waving to the crowd and exchanging glances that spoke volumes about the significance of the night. It was clear that they understood the weight of the occasion and cherished their place in metal history.
After the show, discussions erupted online and in person about Slayer’s set and their unforgettable cover. Many remarked that it was the perfect way to bridge generations of metal fans and performers, symbolizing the enduring legacy of both bands.
The following day, photos and videos of Slayer’s performance continued to flood social media. Fans shared their favorite moments and memories, ensuring that the excitement of the night would linger long after the final chord was struck.
In the end, Slayer’s appearance at Black Sabbath’s farewell was more than just a performance. It was a celebration of heavy metal’s past, present, and future—a testament to the power of music to unite people across generations. For those lucky enough to be at Villa Park, it was an experience they will never forget.
