Cries for an encore were basic

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Reviewed by Everdying, Pure Rock Patrol, Malaysia.

18 Years.

That is how long some have been waiting for Slayer to set foot on these shores, and what better day than to have Friday the 13th as their only show in South-east Asia.

Held on a rainy night at the Singapore Expo, over at some remote looking part of the island where all the hardcore criminals are probably also sent to.

Doors opened at 745pm, and by the time Slayer went on at 830pm the crowd of about 2000 strong were, well basically going wild.

Outside the venue, tour T-shirts with cheap print and posters were being sold at ridiculous prices, not forgetting some guy who was selling overpriced donuts (don't worry, you'll get your chance to sell them donuts to Malmsteen when he drops by next month).

Anyway, Slayer wasted no time and proceeded to tear through their back catalog of classics, opening with 'South of Heaven', and ending the night with 'Angel of Death'.

The set which lasted for almost 90 minutes, went pretty smoothly, with just a slight technical problem at the beginning which sounded like one of the mics blew on Lombardo's kick drum. It was also pretty funny seeing 13yr old kids right in the middle of the mosh, getting thrown around everywhere. Glad to see people were having some friendly violent fun.

Not many new songs were played though, not many being an exaggeration, as Slayer were actually banned from playing certain songs like 'Jihad' and 'Cult'.
Freedom of speech, my ass. File under 'WTF, of all the Countries, India banned Slayer?'

The setlist, from what I can remember:

• South of Heaven.
• Silent scream.
• War ensemble.
• Spirit in black.
• Hallowed point.
• Mandatory suicide.
• Seasons in the abyss.
• Eyes of the insane.
• Dead skin mask.
• Raining blood.
• Angel of death.
• + 3 to 4 more songs I can't recall.

So was 18 years worth the wait? Definitely for some, but most walked away feeling a little disappointed at not getting their money's worth. Perhaps next time, if there ever will be another…