KERRY KING 'Would Be Stunned' By Negative Reaction To SLAYER's New Album

In a brand new interview with U.K.'s Metal Hammer magazine, SLAYER bassist/vocalist Tom Araya and guitarist Kerry King were asked how they respond to suggestions that the current lineup of SLAYER — which features drummer Paul Bostaph and guitarist Gary Holt — "isn't really SLAYER anymore."

"In the past, the fans have always known what to expect," Tom replied. "But now they don't know what to expect.

"We've tried to reassure them that they're going to get SLAYER ... and that's what they're getting!

"The way social media is, it's all instant, so the response will be immediate this time."

He continued: "It'll be interesting to see what the first, initial reactions are. That all adds to the emotions I'm feeling this time round."

Added Kerry: "I don't pay attention to anything on the Internet. I don't have any social media, because of that stupid horseshit. It's just people spouting off.

"If those people could hear [the upcoming SLAYER] record and say, 'Man, it's horseshit!' then I'd be stunned. I'm very excited."

SLAYER has completed recording its eleventh studio album and the band's first new effort since 2009's Grammy-nominated "World Painted Blood". The CD is expected out in August, and will be released on SLAYER's own as-yet-unnamed label through Nuclear Blast.

SLAYER will tour extensively to support the new album, headlining this summer's Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival as well as playing other major outdoor festivals and several "An Evening With..." SLAYER-only concerts.

The new album marks the first time SLAYER has worked with producer Terry Date (PANTERA, SOUNDGARDEN, DEFTONES). It is also SLAYER's first CD since Bostaph's return to the band in 2013 and Holt's addition to the SLAYER touring lineup in 2011. It's also the firstSLAYER album without the presence of founding guitarist Jeff Hanneman, although a Hanneman-penned song is on the final track listing.