Seasons in the Abyss by Slayer

Take a deep dive into the dark, heavy, and melodic world of Slayer with our note-for-note guitar lesson on “Seasons in the Abyss”, a standout track from the band’s 1990 album of the same name. This Licklibrary guitar tutorial dissects every riff, solo, and nuanced phrasing to bring you an in-depth understanding of one of thrash metal’s most iconic songs. Whether you're a die-hard Slayer fan or a metal guitarist looking to sharpen your skills, this lesson offers a treasure trove of valuable techniques and musical insights. Andy James breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitarists: Kerry King & Jeff Hanneman

Slayer’s guitar assault was spearheaded by Kerry King and the late, great Jeff Hanneman, two pioneers of thrash metal guitar playing. Their dual guitar approach combined ferocious aggression with eerie melody, creating a signature sound that has inspired countless metal musicians. Hanneman was known for his chaotic yet precise solos and songwriting prowess, while King’s searing lead work and rhythmic intensity added an unrelenting edge. Learning their parts not only hones your technical abilities but also gives you insight into the creative forces that shaped extreme metal as we know it.

Guitar Techniques Covered in This Lesson

Palm Muting

Palm muting is an essential element in thrash metal, and in “Seasons in the Abyss,” it’s used to create rhythmic tension and percussive power. By resting the edge of your picking hand lightly on the strings near the bridge, you control sustain and tone, adding weight to the riffing. Mastering palm muting enhances your timing, tightness, and ability to deliver groove-heavy riffs with precision.

Alternate Picking

This lesson emphasises consistent alternate picking, a staple in Slayer’s riff construction. Practicing this technique increases speed, accuracy, and picking endurance. It’s vital for maintaining momentum and clarity in fast-paced passages.

String Bending and Bluesy Bends

Slayer’s lead work often incorporates expressive string bending and bluesy bends, especially in the haunting solos of this track. These bends give solos a vocal-like quality and emotional depth. Developing bend control sharpens your ear and improves pitch accuracy, allowing your playing to sound more soulful and dynamic.

Pinched Harmonics

Pinched harmonics are used to inject aggression and colour into certain lead phrases. Learning how to create and control these squealing overtones will add another layer of texture to your solos.

Legato (Hammer-ons and Pull-offs)

The fluidity of certain passages is achieved using legato techniques like hammer-ons and pull-offs. These techniques make your playing smoother and more efficient, particularly during fast lead runs. They also help develop finger strength and independence.

Tremolo Picking

Slayer’s signature intensity is highlighted through aggressive tremolo picking, where notes are repeated rapidly with alternate picking. It’s a critical skill for metal players, increasing your stamina and control while creating relentless sonic energy.

Slides

Slides are used to create seamless transitions between notes and phrases. Developing clean, intentional slides improves your phrasing and adds fluidity to both rhythm and lead parts.

Power Chords

The rhythm foundation of “Seasons in the Abyss” is built around heavy, driving power chords. These simple yet powerful voicings are a metal essential, helping you establish tight, punchy riffs that cut through any mix.

Vibrato

Slayer’s solos come alive with expressive vibrato. Adding vibrato to your lead work increases emotion and sustain, giving each note a distinct personality. It’s a small detail that makes a big impact.

Whammy Bar Tricks and Dive Bombs

Throughout the solo sections, whammy bar tricks and dive bombs bring chaos and drama. Learning how to use your tremolo system expressively allows you to replicate classic metal effects and develop stage-ready showmanship.

Why Learn “Seasons in the Abyss”?

This song provides a perfect balance between aggressive riffing and melodic soloing, making it ideal for developing both rhythm and lead guitar skills. The variety of techniques in this track offers a well-rounded practice session that targets stamina, precision, phrasing, and creativity. Studying Slayer’s approach gives you a deeper understanding of metal guitar composition and teaches you how to create moods with your playing — from ominous and brooding to explosively intense.

Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Alternate Picking
• Palm Muting
• Power Chords
• String Bending
• Bluesy Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Legato
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Tremolo Picking
• Slides
• Vibrato
• Whammy Bar Tricks
• Dive Bombs

Explore this legendary track with our step-by-step guitar lesson and unlock the fierce technique and dark musicality that made Slayer legends of the metal world. Whether you're practicing at home or prepping for the stage, mastering “Seasons in the Abyss” is a must for any serious metal guitarist.