The guitar legend’s sixth solo album is set for global release May 17 on Gibson Records
We’re thrilled to share some exciting music news bound to stir the souls of rock and blues aficionados alike. Guitar legend Slash is set to release his sixth solo album, “Orgy of the Damned,” on May 17, under the banner of Gibson Records. For those eager to get their hands on this release, pre-orders are already underway.
“Orgy of the Damned” isn’t just another album—it’s a 12-track journey that reinvigorates blues classics with a raw, intuitive flair. Slash, known for his brash and toneful guitar work, dives deep into the blues roots that have influenced the evolution of rock ‘n’ roll, delivering a record that’s both a tribute and a fresh take on the genre. This album breathes new life into the blues and showcases Slash’s tasteful guitar prowess.
Leading the charge is the album’s first single, “Killing Floor,” an audacious and spirited rendition of Howlin’ Wolf’s 1964 hit that shook the Chicago blues scene. What makes this track particularly special is the collaboration with rock royalty: Brian Johnson of AC/DC brings his iconic vocals to the table. At the same time, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith adds a harmonica performance that’s as unexpected as it is thrilling. Together, they transform “Killing Floor” into a vibrant, untamed celebration of blues and rock.
“‘Killing Floor’ is one of my favorite Howlin’ Wolf songs, but also one of the iconic blues riffs that turned me on as a young guitar player. I’ve always wanted to cover it in some capacity and this record was the perfect vehicle. But playing it with this band and with Brian Johnson singing, it was an achievement I would never have imagined back then. Let alone Steven Tyler providing the harp.”—Slash
“When Slash asked me to sing on ‘Killing Floor,’ I said yes immediately. It was one of the first songs I learned in my very first band, and when he played me the backing track it was a no-brainer, and Steven’s harmonica is so bloody hot. I had a ball with Slash in the studio, and I think we did this great old song justice. Rock on.”—Brian Johnson
But “Killing Floor” is just the beginning. “Orgy of the Damned” is a landmark project, marking Slash’s debut blues album and featuring an incredible lineup of guest vocalists. Joining the ranks alongside Brian Johnson are Chris Stapleton, Beth Hart, Iggy Pop, Paul Rodgers, Gary Clark Jr., Billy F. Gibbons of ZZ Top, Chris Robinson of The Black Crowes, Demi Lovato, Dorothy, and Tash Neal. This eclectic mix of artists across different genres brings a rich diversity to the album, each lending their unique voice to celebrate the blues in ways we’ve never heard before.
To round out his band in the studio and on the road, Slash reunited with two of his bandmates from his Blues Ball outfit in the 90s, bassist Johnny Griparic and keyboardist Teddy Andreadis, and brought on drummer Michael Jerome and singer/guitarist Tash Neal.
The video is available now for those itching to see Slash and company bring “Killing Floor” to life. If this sneak peek has you craving more, head over to SlashOnline.com to secure your copy of “Orgy of the Damned.” This blues album promises to be a landmark moment in Slash’s career and a vibrant homage to the blues that you won’t want to miss.
Check out Gibson Records and preview the album here. “Orgy of the Damned” will also be available on vinyl and CD. For more information, go to www.slashonline.com.
Slash photo credit: Gene Kirkland
