In a recent interview with Marko Syrjala of Metal-Rules.com, DEATH ANGEL vocalist Mark Osegueda was asked about the fan reaction, particularly from devoted SLAYER fans, to his joining Kerry King‘s solo band.
“The feedback since we’ve been touring has been absolutely incredible,” Mark said. “A lot of people who have the record actually prefer the live performance, and it’s made them appreciate the record even more. Of course, many have seen us live and noticed our progression because we’re a relatively new band. How we work together and play off each other on stage has improved leaps and bounds over the last few weeks. So, when we’re up there, we’re like a machine, and we’re killing it. The fan reaction has been absolutely incredible.
“I’ve talked to many of the diehard SLAYER fans, and they’ve said, ‘We didn’t know what to expect, but you’re doing those SLAYER songs justice’. That’s the main goal for me — obviously, to pull off what we did on the record live. But I know there are always going to be naysayers when it comes to SLAYER‘s material. When we perform live, you can see some of their faces gradually change by the end, and they’re, like, ‘Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.’ To me, that’s a huge compliment.”
When asked if performing the old SLAYER material is technically challenging for him, Mark responded: “I love to do it. I love singing Tom‘s [Araya] stuff. I say that because I’m a SLAYER fan, plain and simple. I think Tom has an iconic voice, one that I’ve always liked and respected. When I perform those songs, I try to do him justice. I’m very confident that I can do him justice.
“The most difficult part tends to be the phrasing, especially when he does the fast bits. There’s some rapid-fire delivery in those songs, and that’s probably the most challenging aspect. But range-wise, I think we’re pretty similar, though maybe some of my highs reflect younger Tom. I love doing it, for sure. As I said, I just try to do my best for the SLAYER legacy and the fans who love SLAYER.”
King released his debut solo album, From Hell I Rise, on May 17. In addition to King and Osegueda, the album features longtime SLAYER drummer Paul Bostaph, former HELLYEAH bassist Kyle Sanders, and ex–MACHINE HEAD and ex-VIO-LENCE guitarist Phil Demmel.
After concluding their last world tour in November 2019, SLAYER, featuring Tom Araya (bass, vocals), Kerry King (guitar), Gary Holt (guitar), and Paul Bostaph (drums), will headline three prominent festivals, Riot Fest, Louder Than Life and Aftershock Festival, marking their first live appearances since then.
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