In the most recent episode of the Beardo and Weirdo podcast, comedian Craig Gass and Five Finger Death Punch bassist Chris Kael welcomed legendary figures from the heavy metal scene — Kerry King of Slayer and Brian Slagel, the founder of Metal Blade Records. The conversation is rich with insights and stories, reflecting on their impactful journeys in the world of heavy metal.

During the episode, the discussion delves into the formative years of both King and Slagel, highlighting their early experiences that shaped their careers. In the clip provided below, you’ll find a vibrant exploration of their beginnings and the pivotal moments that defined their paths in the heavy metal genre.

Gass probes King about the significant moment in his childhood when his passion for music started to flourish. As many fans may already know, King is a devoted fan of Judas Priest, a band he cites as a major influence. He shares, “I had two older sisters who were not into metal; they leaned towards rock music, but metal was off their radar. Growing up in a predominantly Spanish neighborhood that had little exposure to metal, I struggled to find it.” This changed dramatically after he purchased a Judas Priest record, which opened his eyes to a heavier sound beyond the popular radio hits like “Breaking the Law” and “Living After Midnight.”

Next, Slagel reflects on his first encounter with King, recalling the moment he saw Slayer perform as they opened for the Los Angeles band Bitch, one of the earliest signings to Metal Blade. He humorously admits that he had no prior knowledge of Slayer before the show. “I thought I should get there early to check out these bands,” he recalls. He watched Slayer deliver a powerful set filled with a mix of covers and original songs, noting their exceptional talent and stage presence. This experience led him to introduce himself to the band’s young manager and drummer, Dave Lombardo, who was just 18 at the time.

READ MORE: Kerry King Shares Insights on His Favorite Black Sabbath Album

The conversation continues to touch on the significant Metal Massacre compilation released by Metal Blade in 1981, a landmark album that famously featured the first recording from Metallica. This compilation played a crucial role in shaping the metal landscape and has since become a revered piece of history among metal enthusiasts.

King reflects on the moment he realized Slayer had truly achieved success — it was after the release of their groundbreaking album, Reign in Blood. He describes a transformative experience where the band transitioned from grueling tours in cramped vans to traveling comfortably in a tour bus and enjoying accommodations in separate hotels. “At that point, you could finally see the glimpse of a future that held promise,” he shares, capturing the essence of their journey and breakthrough.

Don’t miss the chance to watch the entire clip and immerse yourself in more captivating stories from these iconic figures in heavy metal below.

Discover the Unique Insights of the Beardo and Weirdo Podcast

The Beardo and Weirdo podcast is hosted by comedian and avid rock and metal aficionado Craig Gass alongside Chris Kael, the bassist of Five Finger Death Punch. Together, they share a mix of humor and heartfelt personal stories that tackle serious subjects, including addiction and recovery, providing a well-rounded perspective on life as musicians and fans of heavy music.

New episodes are available every Thursday, offering fresh content for listeners eager to dive deeper into the world of rock and metal.

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