Cryptic Slaughter

Cryptic Slaughter is an American crossover-thrash band from Santa Monica (California), formed in 1984. Their uncompromising speed and socially charged lyrics quickly made them one of the genre’s pioneers. 

Cryptic Slaughter was founded by teens Les Evans and Scott Peterson, alongside Adam Scott, who met playing youth soccer. Their demo Life in Grave (1985) became popular in tape-trader circles and paved the way for their debut album Convicted (1986) on Metal Blade. That record, with breakneck speed and hardcore roots, earned them a strong underground reputation. Their follow-up Money Talks (1987) is often cited as their peak release—heavier, faster and sharply critical. While later line-ups changed their style somewhat, the influence of Cryptic Slaughter remains significant: they are frequently credited among the founders of the crossover-thrash movement.

For vinyl collectors, their classic eighties releases and reissues remain highly sought after.