Slayer

For Slayer fans, 2006 might very well bring the apocalypse. There are just too many signs to ignore. First there was the reunion of the band’s original lineup, with drummer Dave Lombardo resuming the throne he’d abdicated after 1990’s Seasons in the Abyss. Then there was 6/6/06, which brought the release of the reunited quartet’s Eternal Pyre EP, followed by the soon-to-be-released long-player, Christ Illusion — proving that Slayer is still vital, still brutal and still evil. After more than two decades, the group continues to refine its signature thrash/punk/speed metal hybrid, solidifying its reputation as a must-see live act while enduring accusations of satanism, anti-Semitism and animal cruelty because of its unflinching lyrical examinations of human evil. The final sign of the imminent end of days, however, is this summer’s Unholy Alliance tour — an intimidating bill that also includes acclaimed extremists Lamb of God, thundering progheads Mastodon and Tom Araya’s kid brother’s band, Thine Eyes Bleed. Better catch Slayer this time out, for the end is nigh.