Diabolus in Musica Drum Setup: Slayer's 1998 Drop-Tuned Album Gear Breakdown | MetalForge

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slayer's Diabolus in Musica?

Diabolus in Musica is Slayer's seventh studio album, released on June 9, 1998 by American Recordings. The album is Slayer's most controversial record, notable for its decision to drop the guitar tuning to D-flat — two and a half steps below standard — and incorporate a more groove-oriented, mid-paced approach than the classic thrash template of Reign in Blood and Seasons in the Abyss. Produced by Toby Wright at The Hook in Richmond, California, the album was accused at the time of chasing the commercial success of nu-metal bands. Subsequent critical reassessment has recognized it as a legitimate evolution of Slayer's sound, and it is frequently cited as the band's most underrated album.

Who played drums on Diabolus in Musica?

Paul Bostaph played drums on Diabolus in Musica (1998). Bostaph was in his first tenure with Slayer (1992-2001), which followed Dave Lombardo's departure after Seasons in the Abyss (1990). Bostaph recorded four studio albums with Slayer during this period: Divine Intervention (1994), Undisputed Attitude (1996), Diabolus in Musica (1998), and God Hates Us All (2001). Dave Lombardo did not drum on Diabolus in Musica — Lombardo would not return to Slayer until Christ Illusion in 2006.

What tuning does Slayer use on Diabolus in Musica?

Slayer tuned down to D-flat (Db) on Diabolus in Musica — two and a half steps below standard E tuning. This was the most controversial production decision on the album: all previous Slayer studio albums had been recorded in standard tuning. The D-flat tuning gave the album its dense, heavy low-end character but also contributed to the perception that Slayer was following nu-metal and groove metal trends. The tuning change did not affect the drums directly, but it influenced the kick drum and floor tom frequency balance in the mix — the DW Collector's Series deeper shells were well-suited to occupying the same low-frequency range as the downtuned guitars.

Who produced Diabolus in Musica?

Diabolus in Musica was produced by Toby Wright, known for his engineering work on Alice in Chains' Dirt (1992) and production on Mad Season's Above (1995). The album was recorded at The Hook studio in Richmond, California. Wright's approach differed significantly from Rick Rubin's classic stripped-down Slayer aesthetic — the Diabolus production is denser, with more low-end emphasis and a more layered sound that reflected late-1990s studio trends. God Hates Us All (2001) and Repentless (2015) used different producers.

How did Diabolus in Musica chart commercially?

Diabolus in Musica debuted and peaked at #31 on the Billboard 200 — Slayer's highest US chart position at the time of release, surpassing all previous Slayer albums. The album was certified Gold by the RIAA. Despite the mixed critical and fan reception at release, the commercial performance demonstrated that the controversial D-flat tuning and groove metal direction did not alienate Slayer's core audience. God Hates Us All (2001) would later improve on this, reaching #28 on the Billboard 200.