Formed in 1981, SLAYER assaulted the world with a new hybrid of metal and punk – heavier, faster, and darker than the rest – and set a new standard, defining not only a genre, but an attitude. Throughout SLAYER's history, the band never faltered in unleashing their extreme and focused aural assault, and repudiating temptations, SLAYER always chose to remain crushing and brutal, steadfastly refusing to cater to the mainstream.

Building on the success of 'Show No Mercy', SLAYER released a blistering three-track EP showcasing their burgeoning musical power and precision. Featuring aggressive riffs, breakneck tempo, and visceral lyrics, Haunting the Chapel further asserted SLAYER's role as a force to be reckoned with in the evolving metal scene of the 1980s.