GARY HOLT caught off guard by SLAYER’s reunion
When Slayer made a surprise return to the stage last year for two reunion performances at Chicago’s Riot Fest and Sacramento’s Aftershock festival, fans and guitarist Gary Holt were equally stunned by the announcement. Holt, who is also a member of Exodus, shared insights into the preparation for the shows during an interview on the Talk Is Jericho podcast.
Reflecting on the reunion performances, Holt mentioned the rigorous rehearsals leading up to the shows, highlighting the effort put in by the band to ensure a memorable performance. Despite the hiatus, Holt stayed in top musical form, thanks to his continued touring with Exodus. Only the pandemic was able to slow down his momentum briefly. This helped him to keep his musical chops sharp and prepared for the Slayer reunion.
When asked whether the decision to bring Slayer back caught him off guard, Holt admitted to being taken by surprise. He mentioned that while he had some advanced knowledge of the reunion, it wasn’t something he had known about for an extended period. However, he started studying the songs early on to be adequately prepared for the shows.
Revealing possible offers for the band prior to the reunion, Holt acknowledged that the time felt right for Slayer to return to the stage. He emphasized his commitment to Exodus and expressed his willingness to balance between the two bands, especially considering the different scale of performances and production between them.
For Holt, the preparation for the Slayer shows resonated differently this time around. He described the experience as surreal, having the chance to rehearse with a full production setup and redesigning his rig to match his Exodus setup. The rehearsals included intricate details like playing with three amps and six cabs simultaneously, offering a unique opportunity compared to the band’s previous rehearsals.
Even for seasoned musicians like Holt and his bandmates, nerves were present before the shows. He admitted that there were moments of nervousness and emphasized the importance of muscle memory when performing. Despite only playing a few songs sparingly in the past, the preparation and practice paid off when they finally hit the stage.
Unfortunately, severe weather conditions forced the cancellation of one of their scheduled performances, leaving both the band and fans disappointed. However, the unique moments shared onstage during the reunion performances were described as unforgettable and surreal. Holt expressed gratitude for the support from fans and emphasized the positive energy that permeated the shows.
In conclusion, the Slayer reunion performances brought a mix of surprise, excitement, and nostalgia for the band members and fans alike. Despite the challenges and setbacks, the band’s dedication to delivering a memorable performance shone through, making the reunion a remarkable and unforgettable experience for all involved.