After two successful demo tapes, »Bloody Karnage« (1984) and »Surrender Or Die« (1985), the latter selling around 800 copies, Toronto’s Slaughter entered the studio in February 1986 to record their debut vinyl, the »Nocturnal Hell« 7” single, featuring the title track, “One Foot In The Grave” and “Tortured Souls”.
Guitarist and singer Dave Hewson was joined by Terry Sadler on bass and Ron Sumners on drums. The single was originally released by local label Diabolic Force (run by Brian Taylor) in a limited edition of 1,000 copies. Fans immediately took Slaughter’s hectic death/thrash metal to their hearts.
In 1987, »Nocturnal Hell« was followed by Slaughter’s legendary debut album »Strappado« (also released on Diabolic Force).
“Actually, all of the tracks from »Nocturnal Hell« were recorded during the same recording session as the »Strappado« album, which was recorded and mixed in two days for the amount of $ 500,” explains Dave Hewson. “The single was never planned but I believe the label Diabolic Force/Fringe Records was having financial issues, so they released the single first before the »Strappado« LP, which was delayed a full year before release. It was recorded in February 1986 and wasn't released until 1987. We were very happy how the recording sounded ... super heavy. The drums were a bit loud in the mix but overall, we were pleased.”
“I believe the »Nocturnal Hell« single was received very well by both media and fans,” continues the guitarist and singer. “It sold out instantly. I don't remember any reviews in magazines for the single ... that all changed with the release of »Strappado«, which was received and reviewed very highly by most zines and college radio stations all over.”
Celebrating its 40th anniversary, High Roller Records now re-issue Slaughter’s collectible »Nocturnal Hell« 7” single in its original form.