Slayer bassist/frontman to undergo surgery; tour dates cancelled

Tom ArayaAfter dealing with back pain since an overseas tour last October, Slayer bassist and frontman Tom Araya will have to undergo surgery.

Consequently, the band’s American and Canadian Carnage tour, which was to start on January 18th, have been cancelled. Also cancelled is the UK/European tour in March and April. The dates are already being rescheduled, and tickets already purchased will be honored at the make-up dates.

Araya’s back pain has been diagnosed as Cervical Radiculopathy. He did not want to have major surgery for this at first, but after several minimally invasive procedures the pain is still a recurring and disabling problem for the bassist. Araya will undergo a procedure called Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Fusion, which is a routine operation with a great recovery rate. Slayer’s manager Rick Sales said, “As unfortunate as this is for so many people – the Megadeth and Testament camps, the concerts’ promoters, and, of course, the fans – Tom’s health is the number one priority, and this has to happen.”

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