15/07/2025
Mish . Leer.
A Ukrainian fan named Roman Kharkhalis installed a statue of Tom Araya in the small village of Yavorivka, Ukraine. This bronze statue became viral across metal communities in 2022. Araya, the bassist and vocalist of Slayer, is best known for his contributions to the thrash genre with albums like Reign in Blood (1986), South of Heaven (1988), and Seasons in the Abyss (1990). Slayer, part of the "Big Four" of thrash alongside Metallica, Megadeth, and Anthrax, disbanded in 2019, ending with a farewell tour. Tom Araya was known for his thunderous growl and unshakable stage presence. Despite his Chilean-American background, his legacy has become global. This statue symbolizes how heavy metal culture can take root anywhere, even in Eastern European villages, and how Araya’s presence continues to inspire a worldwide fan base long after his retirement from touring.
