South of Heaven is the forth studio album by American thrash metal band Slayer, released on July 19, 1988. Marking a shift from their intense, fast-paced earlier work, the album features a slower, more melodic approach while retaining Slayer’s signature aggressive riffs and intricate guitar work. Produced by Rick Rubin and band member Jeff Hanneman, South of Heaven explores darker themes such as mortality, religion, and inner turmoil.